Over washing and Its Impact on Scalp Microbes
Introduction: What Lives on Your Scalp
Most people think of their scalp as simply the surface where hair grows. But beneath the strands lies a living ecosystem made up of billions of tiny organisms—bacteria, fungi, and yeasts—that form what’s known as the scalp microbiol. This microbial community plays a vital role in keeping the scalp healthy by maintaining pH balance, preventing infections, and supporting the skin's barrier function.
However, one of the most common modern hair care habits—frequent washing or over washing—can seriously disturb this delicate balance. While keeping your hair clean is essential, doing it too often can strip away not only dirt and oil but also the beneficial microbes that help your scalp stay healthy.
In this article, we’ll explore how over washing your hair affects the scalp microbiol, the resulting consequences, and practical steps to keep both your scalp and hair in top condition.
Understanding the Scalp Microbiol
Just like the skin on the rest of your body, your scalp is colonised by a variety of microorganisms. These include:
-
Bacteria like Staphylococcus epidermis, which protect against harmful pathogens
-
Yeasts such as Malaysia, which feed on natural oils but can cause problems if they multiply excessively
-
Fungi and other microbes that help regulate oil production and skin health
A balanced microbiol is crucial for scalp wellness. It helps:
-
Prevent overgrowth of harmful microbes
-
Reduce inflammation
-
Support the skin's natural defences
-
Maintain moisture and oil levels
But this balance can easily be disrupted, especially by over washing.
What is Over washing?
Over washing refers to shampooing your hair too frequently or with products that are too harsh. This habit removes not just dirt and excess oil but also:
-
Natural sebum, the scalp’s protective oil
-
Microbial populations, both harmful and beneficial
-
The acid mantle, a fine film that maintains the scalp’s slightly acidic pH (around 4.5–5.5)
Depending on your hair type, lifestyle, and environment, washing your hair more than 3–4 times a week may be considered excessive—especially if you're using strong or drying products.
1. Stripping Natural Oils Leads to Microbial Imbalance
Sebum (natural oil) serves more than just a cosmetic purpose—it provides nutrition and protection for the beneficial microbes that inhabit your scalp. Over washing strips away this oil, which weakens the environment where these good microbes thrive.
When these protective microbes decrease, harmful ones, like certain species of Malaysia or Staphylococcus aureus, seize the opportunity to overgrow, leading to issues like:
-
Dandruff
-
Itchy or inflamed scalp
-
Seborrhoea dermatitis
2. Raised pH Levels Favour Pathogen Growth
The scalp’s ideal pH is slightly acidic, which helps keep harmful microbes in check. Many shampoos—especially those with strong detergents—can raise the scalp’s pH, making it more alkaline.
An alkaline environment:
-
Destabilises the microbiol
-
Encourages overgrowth of harmful bacteria and fungi
-
Weakens the scalp's barrier, allowing more irritation and moisture loss
This pH imbalance can trigger a cascade of scalp problems, even in people who previously had no issues.
3. Damage to the Skin Barrier
Along with washing away oils and microbes, frequent shampooing can damage the stratum corner, the outermost layer of the scalp. When this skin barrier is weakened:
-
It becomes more sensitive to products and environmental triggers
-
Micro-cracks can form, leading to itching and inflammation
-
It allows easier entry of allergens and pollutants
With a compromised barrier, even mild shampoos can begin to feel irritating, and the scalp becomes prone to chronic discomfort or visible conditions like scaling and redness.
4. Increased Risk of Dandruff and Fungal Overgrowth
One of the most common results of microbial imbalance caused by over-washing is dandruff. The yeast Malaysia, which lives naturally on the scalp, feeds on the scalp's oils. When oil levels fluctuate due to frequent washing, this yeast can multiply rapidly, leading to:
-
Flaking
-
Itching
-
Scalp odour
Many people mistakenly wash their hair more often to combat these symptoms, but doing so can make the condition worse, continuing the cycle of imbalance.
5. Hair Health Suffers
The scalp is the foundation for healthy hair. When the microbiol is disturbed:
-
Hair follicles become inflamed or blocked
-
Nutrients may not reach the roots efficiently
-
Hair becomes brittle, dry, and more prone to falling out
A healthy microbiol supports keratin production and follicle strength, which are essential for growing thick, resilient hair.
6. Symptoms of a Disturbed Microbiol
If you’re over washing and experiencing the following, your scalp microbiol may be out of balance:
-
Constant flaking or dandruff
-
Tightness or burning sensation on the scalp
-
Increased oiliness within 24 hours of washing
-
Red or sensitive patches on the scalp
-
Hair that feels dry but greasy at the roots
These signs are your body’s way of signalling that its natural protective system has been disturbed.
How to Protect Your Scalp Microbiol
To restore and maintain a healthy scalp microbiol, here are some simple but effective changes:
Wash Less Frequently
Try washing your hair 2–3 times a week, or even less if your scalp tolerates it. This helps maintain oil and microbial balance.
Use Gentle, pH-Balanced Shampoos
Choose sulphate-free shampoos with mild, microbiol-friendly ingredients. Look for products label ed as pH-balanced.
Avoid Hot Water
Hot water can strip oils and damage the skin barrier. Use lukewarm water to rinse your hair.
Incorporate Scalp Oils
Light oils like jojoba or argon can replenish moisture and support microbial balance, especially if massaged into the scalp once a week.
Macrobiotic and Prediction Hair Products
Some newer formulations support the scalp microbiol by feeding beneficial microbes or adding new ones. These can be a smart addition to your routine.
Conclusion: Balance is the Key
Caring for your hair isn’t just about keeping it clean—it’s about preserving the natural harmony of the scalp environment. Overwashing, though often done with good intentions, can disrupt the microbial community that protects your scalp, leading to irritation, flaking, inflammation, and even hair loss.
By learning to wash less, choosing gentle products, and understanding your scalp’s biology, you can maintain a healthy microbiome and enjoy hair that not only looks great but also grows stronger and healthier from the root.
No comments:
Post a Comment