On hair-washing day, we put in a lot of effort — oiling, masking, shampooing, conditioning — only to enjoy a day or two of good hair before our hair starts looking greasy, causing us to stop wearing it. I hesitated.

For people with oily skin (and yes, the scalp is an extension of the skin), this problem is all too familiar and frequent.

But as always, when there’s a beauty dilemma, there’s an Instagram hack for it. So what’s new? Use a toothbrush to remove excess oil from the scalp. But is this technique really effective, or could it cause more harm than good?

Clear scalp = no problem

Dr DM Mahajan, Senior Consultant, Dermatology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi says, “Oily scalp is mainly caused by excessive production of sebum from the sebaceous glands, which is influenced by factors such as genetics, hormonal changes, diet and environmental conditions. Might be possible.” , tells India Today,

Doctors explain that sebum is essential for maintaining the health of the scalp because it provides moisture and protection. However, excessive oil can cause problems like dandruff, itching, and clogged pores, which can hinder hair growth and contribute to hair loss.

Proper cleansing of the scalp is important to remove excess oil, dead skin cells and product build-up.

Scalp health is related to hair health

According to Dr. Mahajan, the health of the scalp is inextricably linked to the health of the hair.

• A clean and well-maintained head acts as a fertile ground for the hair follicles, allowing for strong hair growth.
• When the scalp is unhealthy due to the accumulation of dandruff, excess oil, dirt, or dead skin cells, it can lead to oxidative stress that negatively impacts hair quality and maintenance.
• Research indicates that poor scalp health can result in hair becoming brittle, making it more susceptible to damage.
• Maintaining scalp health through proper hygiene and care is essential to getting strong, shiny hair.

How to know if your scalp is healthy

Dr Piyusha Bhagde, founder and chief dermatologist, Skin Ethics Clinic in Akola, Maharashtra, says, “A healthy scalp is itchy, has no rashes and no bad smell. The hair also has a healthy shine.” It is a sign of.” Skull.”

brushing your way towards a clean scalp

According to social media, cleaning the scalp with a toothbrush can be a good way to exfoliate and remove build-up.

Dr. Sankey says, “Using a toothbrush to clean the scalp can help unclog blocked pores and sebaceous glands. This method can promote a deeper clean, removing oil, dirt, and congestion more “Can help in effective removal, leaving the scalp feeling refreshed.”

They mention that this method can be effective in thoroughly cleansing the scalp, helping remove excess oil and debris, and improving overall scalp hygiene. However, it is important to use a soft bristle toothbrush.

Additionally, Dr. Bhagde explains that brushing the scalp with a soft toothbrush mixed with oil or apple cider vinegar can help reduce dandruff and clear up scalp congestion. It may also improve scalp blood circulation, but there is no scientific data showing scalp brushing improves hair growth.

a risky hack

Dr. Mahajan believes, “Although the toothbrush method may seem effective due to its ability to reach the cracks of the scalp, it raises concerns about potential damage.”

Toothbrush bristles can be too harsh for the sensitive skin of the scalp, potentially causing irritation or micro cracks. Additionally, if not done gently, this technique can aggravate existing scalp conditions or cause inflammation.

Aggressive scrubbing can also damage the hair follicles, potentially resulting in weakened hair or increased hair loss over time.

According to the doctor, “There are more suitable options that are specifically designed for scalp care. Products like scalp scrubs or exfoliating shampoos contain ingredients that effectively remove dead skin cells and excess oil without causing irritation.” Let’s remove it from.”

Know the options

• scalp scrub: Use special scrubs that contain gentle exfoliants to remove build-up.
• gentle shampooing: Choose sulfate-free shampoos that cleanse without stripping natural oils.
• massage regularly: While washing your hair, gently massage your scalp to improve circulation.
• avoid over washing: Limit washing to three or four times a week to avoid dryness.
• hydrating mask: Apply a conditioning mask specially formulated to nourish the scalp.

Not just clean, you should also ensure that you maintain a healthy scalp that promotes optimal hair growth. Experts recommend washing your head every other day to prevent the buildup of excess oil and impurities.

Also, if you do apply oil, limit it to an hour before washing and avoid oiling overnight, as prolonged exposure to oil can clog pores. When conditioning, apply the product only to the bottom three-quarters of your hair, avoiding the scalp to avoid making it heavy or sticky.

It’s also important to protect your hair from UV damage and invest in good hair care products that suit your needs.