How to Maintain a Healthy Scalp While Transitioning

by Chai, Back to Curly  

If you’re letting scalp issues distract your transition to natural hair, now’s the time to find a solution. Going through the pivotal stages of transitioning? Don’t overlook one of the more important steps along your journey, having a healthy, clutter-free scalp!

While some factors to achieving a healthy scalp can sit below the surface, there are a number of tricks to maintaining a healthy scalp that you can implement simply by improving your hair routine. Start on washday and begin by investing in the right products that can steer you on the right path.

Chances are if you’re newly natural or even thinking about going natural, you’re prone to trying the latest product du jours. Here’s a tip! Be smart and stay selective!  It’s often best to keep it simple yet also play it smart by avoiding routines that lead to product buildup.


First, switch to a cleanser that not only rids the scalp of unnecessary gunk, but also keeps those strands moisturized! The key to avoiding product buildup and maintaining a healthy scalp starts with a good clarifying cleanser. Looking for the best shampoo can often mean one thing, and that’s finding a formula that is moisturizing and not overly stripping. Stick with a cleanser that offers nourishing oils and keeps hair soft. Here’s another helpful tip: Invest in an applicator bottle and apply your favorite cleanser directly to the scalp. Not only will you cleanse more effectively, but less tangles will occur and much of your hair’s natural oils will stay put! If you’re more of an at-home mixtress, mix a quick two-part clarifier of Apple Cider Vinegar and water. The ACV mix will help to break up any residue left on the scalp and restore your scalp’s natural PH.

Experiencing a bit of dryness or flaking? Try increasing your water intake then consider a hot-oil treatment prior to cleansing to help balance out the moisture. Using oils infused with both Rosemary and Peppermint not only soothe the scalp but nourish your natural hair. Help replenish any moisture lost by using Lisa’s Hair Elixir or by simply combining your favorite essential oils.

Quick Tips to Remember When Maintaining the Health of Your Scalp:

• Wash products clean away with a cold rinse to help retain moisture and seal in those natural oils
• Drink ample amounts of water daily to keep skin naturally hydrated
• Stick to a cleanser that can both moisturize and cleanse effectively without overdrying.  Look for labels with your favorite oils.
• Not a fan of shampoo? Try a Rosemary Mint Clarifying Conditioner as a co-wash to replenish moisture.
• Allow your scalp to breathe. Rule of thumb: cleanse the scalp, condition your strands!

HAVE A QUESTION FOR ONE OF OUR EXPERTS? ASK IT HERE.