Dry Hair and Scalp Problems

by Yasiin Shah

My hair is black ethnic Pakistan/Indian. My scalp and hair is dry with no shine and life in it. It also looks very damaged.

I have heard that hair serums are good. If so, which one is recommended?

Could you also recommend a good hair shampoo and conditioner? I have tried Schwarzkopf Gliss and Head and Shoulder products so far.

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It sounds like you may have two situations going on at the same time. Because you have been using products for dandruff control (Head and Shoulders), I suspect that the products you have tried are not the right ones for your hair and scalp condition.

Many times, a dry scalp can signal that the products you're using are drying it out too much. The problem is that dandruff products can further dry out an already dry scalp and in the process, can be drying to your hair too. You may not have dandruff, but instead just dry scalp.

A dry scalp can be a sign of under productive sebaceous glands, which are the oil glands that produce natural oils in your hair follicles to help condition your hair and scalp. If you overuse dandruff products, your scalp may stop producing as many oils, that keep your scalp and hair lubricated. The end result is dry hair and scalp.

One of the best products, especially for ethnic hair and scalp, is simply coconut oil. It will give your hair renewed life and help add shine too. Simply massage into your hair and scalp before bed at night. Cover with a cap and the next day, wash your hair and allow your hair to dry naturally.


Instead of focusing on your dry scalp, try focusing on your hair instead. Use gentle products like smoothing shampoos and smoothing conditioners to help add shine to your hair.

When your hair is dry, the cuticle of your hair stands up or out. Products that smooth out your hair cuticle create more shine by mere light refraction. When light hits your hair, it either emits shine or looks dull. The more your cuticles are laid down, the more light that can reflect off your hair. The more you use these types of products, the more your hair will feel much smoother and silkier too.

Again, hair serums help lay down the hair cuticle. You can also opt for pomades, masks, finishing cremes, and/or hair wax, that act based on the same principles; laying down your hair cuticle.

You should not wash your hair everyday either. Washing too often can dry out your hair and scalp too. Depending on the length of your hair, once or twice a week is enough for longer hairstyles. Also, stay away from products that contain alcohol. It can be very drying to already dry hair and scalp!