6 Most Common Hair and Skin Issues, and How to Fix Them

Everyone has hair, scalp, or skin problems from time to time. It could be due to genetics, environmental conditions, the change in seasons, or even the hair and skin care products we use. We understand the struggle of dealing with dryness, excessive oil, itchiness, or bumps that may arise. Here are six of the most common issues that we hear about.

DRY SCALP

​Having a dry scalp means that your skin is lacking moisture.  Overly hot showers, hard water, and simply not moisturizing can cause dry scalp.  This looks like small, white flakes.  A dry scalp can feel tight and itchy.
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Using a moisturizing shampoo and a leave-in conditioner can make a big difference in relieving dry scalp. Look for products that are pH balanced. 

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DANDRUFF

​Dandruff is a condition of the scalp with excess oil and Malassezia (yeast) overgrowth.  There is a difference between dandruff and dry scalp, even though symptoms are similar.  Dandruff feels a lot like a dry scalp with flakes and itching, however, dandruff flakes are larger and yellowish in color.
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Specialized shampoos will help to kill Malassezia and get the excess oil under control.  These shampoos will contain ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, or zinc pyrithione as an active ingredient.  Tea tree oil is also effective.  Once dandruff has subsided, these shampoos are NOT preventative.  Just use a regular, moisturizing shampoo and conditioner.  ​ Check out this shampoo by GKHair!

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OILY SCALP

We’ve all had a greasy scalp when we’ve just needed to wash our hair. But when your sebaceous glands go into overdrive and produce too much oil you have a condition called seborrhea, better known as an oily scalp.  This is when your scalp is excessively oily and greasy consistently.
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So how do you fix an oily scalp? A dry shampoo can keep your scalp in check between washes. Using pH-balanced shampoos and hair products is a must!  Look for water-based shampoos and leave-in moisturizers.  Shampoos with sodium sulfacetamide can be used to help get rid of any bacteria on the scalp.  GKHair offers a great balancing shampoo.

RAZOR BUMPS

Razor bumps form when a hair you've shaved curls back into your skin, like an ingrown hair.  The medical term for it is pseudofolliculitis.  Razor bumps are inflamed, irritated bumps on the shaved skin.
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One of our most common questions is “How do I get rid of my razor bumps fast?”  Apply a cold compress to shrink the pore, then use an aftershave product.  Our favorite fix is Xotics Skin Rescue.  Finish with a facial moisturizer.  

Proper skin prep and shaving techniques can help to prevent razor bumps. Here is a guide to the 3 Essential Parts of a Great Shave.

DRY SKIN

Dry skin is dehydrated of moisture and will appear flakey. Dry skin feels rough and can be stiff or cracked.
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An obvious solution to dry skin is to moisturize with a quality facial moisturizer.  A humidifier can help the room’s moisture content.  Drinking plenty of water helps moisturize from the inside out.

OILY SKIN

We’ve all had times when our skin feels a bit oily. This is when the skin is producing too much sebum.  You will notice a shiny look or a greasy feel to oily skin. Clogged pores can lead to acne breakouts.
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If you have oily skin you should wash with a gentle cleanser 2-3 times a day, making sure to wash gently without scrubbing.  Follow up with moisturizer.  Even oily skin needs proper moisture balance!

Regardless of genetics or the season, the effects of products or shaving, we all experience hair and skin issues.  We are here to help you navigate those issues because Knowledge makes you Sharp on the Inside. Applying it makes you Sharp on the Outside!
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