Posts with tag scalp

Let us try to put this delicately. Have you ever been caught with "the greasies"? But without any time for a full on wash and blow dry? Don't feel bad, most of us have. A ponytail can get you out of a lot of situations, but sometimes you need a stronger solution. Like dry shampoo.

What? How can shampoo be dry? Well, mainly when they're made up of different kinds of powders -- rice, cornstarch, oats -- that absorb excess oil on your hair and scalp. It takes away the oil slick and the volume at your roots makes your hair seem fuller.

Dry shampoos also give your hair an awesome kind of friction, which helps keep pins in for big updos. In fact, several hair "experts" created blends to use on models at fashion shows where you don't have enough time to wash out one 'do before setting the next one. Smart marketers that they are, they packaged them up for the rest of us.

Of course you can use baby powder or plain old cornstarch, but they are harder to handle than a sprays and don't smell as nice as some of the products, which we showcase in the gallery.

One of our dear readers wrote in to ask for advice about dandruff, a little discussed but common ailment. For some people it's a minor irritation, a few embarrassing dry flakes. To those who suffer more severely, with oily scalps and painful itching, it's a frustrating affliction.

The best first step is always education. Cool Nurse has a great primer on the different kinds of dandruff and causes, as well as some treatment suggestions.