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It starts with using scalp friendly products daily, such as the right shampoo and conditioner for your specific scalp and hair conditions or soothing leaveon treatments like theOribe one. “If you know you are prone to dandruff, using a salicylic acid-based shampoo is helpful to stop the redness and itchiness,” James explains. If your scalp is dry, look for products that “add moisture, suppleness and nourishment to the scalp and hair,” she says. For scalps that tend to get oily quickly (or if you notice blocked hair follicles, similar to blackheads, Yates recommends using a clarifying shampoo to massage the scalp “for a full five minutes” in the shower.

On top of your daily care, there are a lot of scalp “detox” products out there, which can be useful to add to your weekly routine. James recommends doing a scalp detox treatment twice a week if you are having scalp issues. “to help with the balance of nutrients, hygiene, repairing damaged skin tissue, and in restoring needed moisture on the scalp.”

Just don’t go overboard with harsh “detoxification” ingredients like charcoals, adds Yates — even some natural exfoliants like sugar scrubs can be too harsh if you have sensitive skin. “Just like your facial skin your scalp can be quite sensitive,” she says. “Harsh ingredients can strip the scalp of its natural oils and good bacteria and leave it quite irritated.” A good rule of thumb: if you tend to stay away from harsh skincare products, use caution around harsh scalpcare products as well. Once your scalp is in balance, James recommends using treatments with a blend of extracts from two types of algae and other botanical growth-stimulating ingredients. ”It’s used to heal, repair and regenerate scalp tissue.”

Finally, beware of dry shampoo, which is a recipe for clogged hair follicles. “If you use dry shampoo to stop your hair from looking oily, make sure you are still washing your hair at least four times per week to stop the powder build-up on the scalp,”

So, when your scalp needs a little extra TLC (like when you’re in the midst of a days’ long affair with that bottle of dry shampoo), trichologists recommend some specific scalp-care products. Here are some of their favorites designed to troubleshoot your trickiest scalp issues.

1. Instant Scalp Soother

“To prevent your scalp from getting ‘tight,’ try using a soft brush to help stimulate and gently massage the scalp,” Yates says. She loves a hand-crafted natural bristle brushes, “The flexible cushion of natural bristles gently massages the scalp and move the scalp’s natural oils from the roots to the midlengths and ends.” Just don’t brush too hard, she says. “Think gentle sweeps vs. rough and aggressive.”

2. Exfoliating Scalp Mask

A trichology scalp treatment that helps exfoliate the scalp, removes any follicle clogging, and feels refreshing for the scalp,” Kingsley says.

3. Dandruff Soother

A leave-in anti-microbial solution mixed with aloe vera instantly treats and soothes an itchy, irritated scalp.

4. Leave-in Moisture Booster

“We are coming onto the winter season, which means drier climates and drier scalps,” Yates says. To keep your scalp in balance, she loves a Leavein Moisturiser.

5. Scalp Sun Protector

As Yates pointed out, UV damage can aggravate your scalp — just like you protect your face, be sure to protect the skin on your scalp as well.