Preserving your microbiota for a healthy scalp

The microbiota plays a role on the scalp. When he is rebalanced, it reflects on the hair which gains in strength and shine. Explanations and advice.

What exactly is the microbiota?

Our skin is home to an average of 1,000 billion bacteria and around 1,000 species of fungi, viruses, etc.

All these microorganisms live on the surface and in the superficial layers of the epidermis, constituting a complex ecosystem. They feed on lipids, proteins and other compounds made by the skin. This micro biota varies in quantity and quality from person to person depending on age, sex, immune system and certain factors such as humidity, pH and temperature.

Why is this flora so important?

Because a healthy microbiota is the guarantee of having healthy hair! From our birth to our death, this flora composed of microorganisms colonizes our skin, including the scalp. And continues to evolve over time. It thus forms our first line of defense against external aggressions. It is a developed ecosystem that researchers have been studying for ten years to understand its precise role.

What happens in the event of an imbalance in the microbiota?

All this little world normally lives in harmony. But if a disturbance occurs (bad rituals, use of unsuitable products, etc.), that is to say if certain bacteria proliferate to the detriment of others, the virtuous circle is then broken.

The hydrolipidic film is altered. As a result, the protective function of the scalp is less well assured.
Inflammation manifests itself : tingling, heating or itching …
The imbalance sets in and the very nature of the scalp is changing. It secretes more sebum and becomes fatty.
Attacked by antimicrobial active ingredients from chemistry, the scalp dries up, desquame, which can cause dandruff.
The scalp loses its vigor, the fiber becomes thinner, becomes dull and brittle. Ultimately, it can also cause Hair loss.

How to act effectively?

The principle consists of strengthening the bacterial and microbial balance, as much as the barrier function of the scalp by providing it with various elements.

Prebiotics. These are fibers and sugars that will feed the good bacteria and thus support the skin barrier.
Lactic acid, which creates an environment favorable to the harmonious development of bacteria.
Fermented rice water, rich in pre and postbiotics, traditionally used by Asians to wash their hair.
An ultra-soft washing base which does not foam, in perfect harmony with the pH of the scalp (around 4).

Is the microbiota in this area specific?

Due to its hot and humid environment as well as its richness in sebum, the scalp is home to a lot of yeasts, in particular from the Malassezia family, responsible for dandruff and some seborrheic dermatitis. On the bacteria side, the most common are C. acnes and S. epidermidis, but there are also local populations which, it is believed, synthesize vitamins and nutrients essential for hair growth.

Are all types of scalps affected?

Above all sensitive, oily or dandruff scalps. But research on this microbiota is in its infancy. Cosmetics groups are just starting to communicate on the issue. For Marie Drago, doctor of pharmacy and creator of the Gallinée brand, the approach was obvious: “We believe that it makes more sense to preserve this microbiota. than using aggressive shampoos, which will strip it and unbalance it “. Most shampoos for problematic scalps indeed incorporate antibacterial active ingredients and exfoliating ingredients … This new approach allows to treat and soothe the problems of irritation and dandruff . But it is also interesting for all types of hair. Which are often subjected to aggressions (coloring, pollution, smoothing …). You just have to alternate with your usual care, provided that their formula is not aggressive .

What are the right actions to adopt?

Shampoos and other products that are too aggressive must be removed. And use those that respect the scalp ecosystem and promote good bacteria, so prebiotic care. A virtuous circle is quickly reestablished, which makes it possible to space out the shampoos since the skull regains its natural balance. Better nourished, the hair fiber also benefits from this change, gaining strength and shine.

3 scalp treatments

Rebalancing

Without foam, this cleansing cream cleanses, calms irritations (mafura vegetable oil), relieves itching and leaves hair clean with a natural finish.

Soothing cleansing cream, Gallinée, € 25 for 200 ml.

Anti-grease

Its sulphate-free cleansing base gently cleanses while sage hydrosol, burdock extract and probiotic active ingredients regulate excess sebum, purify and improve hair quality.

Volu-maturing freshness shampoo, Daydry Probiotics, € 13 for 200 ml.

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