Anabel Kingsley, Trichologist at Philip Kingsley shares her expert advice ahead your big day.

Anabel Kingsley, Trichologist at Philip Kingsley, www.Philipkingsley.co.uk shares her expert advice ahead your big day.

If you're prone to a flaky and/or itchy scalp, your scalp flaring up just before or on your wedding day may be top of mind. While it's true that dandruff commonly pops up during times of stress (even when it's linked to a very happy occasion!) - luckily, there are many things you can do to help ensure your scalp is calm and comfortable on your big day.

I don't recommend trying out new products right before a big event, so it's best so start prepping your scalp in the months before. More severe cases of dandruff (called seborrhoeic dermatitis) may also take a few weeks to get under control.

In the month leading up to your wedding:
1. Shampoo regularly and thoroughly
Scalp is skin and benefits from similar care to the skin on our face. Simply by shampooing daily to every other day, you will help to keep your scalp healthy, clean and flake-free. The act of massaging when you shampoo lifts away dead skin cells and creates a healthy environment for hair to grow. You should spend approximately 1 minute gently massaging your scalp when you shampoo, making sure you are covering all areas of your scalp. Then rinse well to ensure all flakes are washed away.

2. Swap out your regular shampoo for a soothing anti-microbial shampoo
If you have dandruff, and as well as the above step, use a targeted dandruff shampoo. I love our Flaky/Itchy Scalp Shampoo which smells of green apples, is gentle enough for daily use and provides lovely volume.

3. Use a gently exfoliating scalp mask 1x per week
If you are prone to stubborn flakes, using an exfoliating scalp mask once weekly will help properly lift them and allow actives in other topical products to penetrate more effectively. Our Flaky/Itchy Scalp Mask has a lovely blend of exfoliating ingredients as well as antimicrobial actives.

4. Apply an overnight balancing serum before bed
The night before you shampoo, use a calming overnight scalp serum to help balance your scalp microbiome. Our Overnight Scalp Barrier Serum is formulated with exfoliating AHAs, soothing Aloe Vera Extract, hydrating hyaluronic acid and oil-regulating witch hazel.

5. Use an antimicrobial, soothing toner post-shampoo
As a toner is left on your scalp, the active ingredients have longer to do their job. This is a great product to keep in your handbag as you can also apply it to problematic areas throughout the day as and when itching strikes. We make one called Flaky/Itchy Scalp Toner. If you have itching on your wedding day and are not shampooing, you can use a dry shampoo with soothing scalp ingredients, like our Flaky/Itchy Scalp Dry Shampoo.

6. Try to limit your stress as best you can
Easier said than done, but taking time to manage your stress levels will benefit your scalp. Try incorporating yoga, Pilates, mindfulness, meditation or swimming into your weekly routine.

7. Take Vitamin D supplement
Vitamin D deficiency is very common and it can aggravate scalp conditions. At our Clinics, we generally recommend taking 1000-2000 iu daily, but you can speak to your doctor about what dosage is good for you.

8. Avoid foods that may trigger your scalp
Trigger foods aren't the same for everyone, but many people find full fat dairy products, like cheese, as well as spicy, sugary foods and white wine and champagne can worsen their scalp condition. Keep a food diary to figure out your trigger foods, if any.

If you suffer from severe scalp scaling or psoriasis, book an appointment to see a trichologist as you may need stronger prescription treatments. At our Clinic in Londonwe have many women book in for in-Clinic treatments before their wedding so we can properly clear their scalp – we utilize massage, steam and red light therapy.

Read our interview with Anable Kingsley here.