Welcome Back to the Salon Cass Hair Report š
Hey Beauty!
Happy sunday....I hope you had an amazing weekend!
Now let me ask you something...
Have you ever gotten your hair done, looked absolutely fabulous, taken a million selfies, and then a few days later found yourself doing this?
Scratch. Scratch. Scratch. Pat .Pat. Pat...
š
You love the hair.
You love the install.
You love the compliments.
But your scalp seems determined to ruin the party.
As a hairstylist, one of the most common questions I get is:
"Shaunda, why does my scalp itch so bad when I wear extensions?"
The truth is, there isn't just one answer.
Let's talk about some of the most common reasons your scalp may be trying to tell you something.
Dry Scalp Is More Common Than You Think
One of the biggest causes of scalp itching is simple dryness.
Many women focus on moisturizing their extensions but forget that their scalp needs attention too.
Your scalp is skin.
Just like the skin on your face, it can become dry, irritated, and uncomfortable when it isn't properly cared for.
A dry scalp often leads to:
ā¢ Flaking
ā¢ Tightness
ā¢ Irritation
ā¢ Persistent itching
Sometimes your scalp is simply thirsty.
Product Buildup Can Become A Problem
Let's have a little honest conversation, Bestie. š
If you've been applying oils, edge control, mousse, leave-in conditioner, scalp sprays, and everything else under the sun for weeks without properly cleansing your scalp, buildup happens.
That buildup can trap:
ā¢ Sweat
ā¢ Oil
ā¢ Dead skin cells
ā¢ Dirt
ā¢ Product residue
Over time, this can lead to itching and irritation.
A clean scalp is a happy scalp.
Tight Braids Can Cause Irritation
A protective style should never feel painful.
If your braids are excessively tight, your scalp may become inflamed.
Signs your install may be too tight include:
ā¢ Headaches
ā¢ Tenderness
ā¢ Redness
ā¢ Small bumps
ā¢ Pain when touching the scalp
Remember:
Tight doesn't mean secure.
Healthy hair always wins.
Not All Hair Added To Braids Is Created Equal
Here's a little professional tip many clients don't know.
When I install sew-ins and need to add hair for an anchor braid, I personally prefer using human hair whenever possible instead of traditional synthetic braiding hair.
Why?
Some people are sensitive to certain synthetic braiding fibers, including some types of Kanekalon hair.
Those fibers can sometimes cause:
ā¢ Itching
ā¢ Irritation
ā¢ Scalp discomfort
ā¢ Allergic reactions
That's one reason you've probably noticed more hypoallergenic braiding hair products appearing on the market over the last few years.
In my own work, I often cut a small section from a weft of human hair and incorporate that into the braid when additional hair is needed.
Many clients find this much more comfortable, especially if they've experienced irritation from synthetic fibers in the past.
It's one of those little professional tricks I've picked up after 20Ā plus years behind the chair.
Dandruff And Scalp Conditions Can Be The Real Culprit
Sometimes the extensions aren't the problem at all.
The real issue may be an underlying scalp condition.
Some common conditions include:
ā¢ Dandruff
ā¢ Psoriasis
ā¢ Seborrheic Dermatitis
ā¢ Eczema
When extensions are installed, it becomes more difficult to access the scalp, which can make these conditions seem worse.
If you've struggled with scalp issues in the past, it's important to continue caring for your scalp while wearing extensions.
How I Recommend Cleaning Your Scalp
One of my favorite tricks is using an applicator bottle with a pointed nozzle.
This allows shampoo or scalp treatments to get directly between braid rows without disturbing the install.
This method works especially well for:
ā¢ Scalp cleansing routines
If you're wearing extensions for several weeks, proper scalp maintenance is essential.
When It's Time To Call A Dermatologist
Sometimes itching is more than just dry scalp.
If you're experiencing:
ā¢ Bleeding
ā¢ Severe redness
ā¢ Scabbing
ā¢ Persistent irritation
ā¢ Unusual hair loss
ā¢ Painful inflammation
It may be time to consult a dermatologist.
Don't rely on social media to diagnose serious scalp issues.
A licensed medical professional can determine exactly what's happening and recommend the proper treatment.
My Professional Opinion
After more than 20 years behind the chair, I've learned something very simple:
Healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp.
Most scalp issues aren't caused by extensions themselves.
They're usually caused by what's happening underneath them.
When your scalp is healthy, your hair journey becomes much easier.
Final Thoughts
If your scalp is itching while wearing extensions, don't ignore it.
Your scalp is communicating with you.
Whether it's dryness, buildup, tension, sensitivity, or an underlying scalp condition, addressing the issue early can help prevent bigger problems later.
Listen to your scalp.
Take care of your scalp.
And your hair will thank you for it.
Until Next Week, Bestie! š
Whether you're rocking a sew-in, wig, braids, or your natural hair, remember that healthy hair starts at the scalp.
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And if you're reading this while scratching your scalp right now...
This article was definitely meant for you. š