Your scalp,balancedall day.

Hair renews itself constantly; losing some strands every day is a natural part of the hair cycle. The number can rise when the seasons change. If you see a small white bulb at the end of a shed strand, it is usually a hair that has simply completed its cycle.

Hair follows a yearly cycle. In a 6-year study of 823 women, the share of hairs in the shedding phase peaked in summer; those strands then fall out in the following weeks, in autumn. Seasonal shedding is usually temporary.

Shedding is a process that starts at the root weeks or even months earlier; it becomes visible 3–4 months after the trigger. Shedding noticed right after a shampoo change is usually down to another cause. Harsh cleansers, however, can dry out and sensitise the scalp, which is why a gentle formula matters.

A regular shampoo cleans your hair and scalp. A prebiotic shampoo cleans while also supporting the balance of the scalp microbiome. Many common concerns, such as dandruff, itching and oiliness, have been linked to a shift in this balance.

Just like the skin, the scalp is home to a community of bacteria and yeasts. Its dominant members are Cutibacterium, Staphylococcus and Malassezia. When this community is in balance, the scalp feels calm and comfortable.

Dandruff results from a combination of scalp yeast breaking down sebum, a weakened barrier and individual sensitivity. On a scalp with dandruff, the microbiome balance shifts. It is not contagious.

The most common causes are harsh cleansers, very hot water, sensitivity to hair dye and fragrance, dryness and stress. The scalp is skin too; when its barrier weakens, it becomes sensitive. 89% of people with a sensitive scalp report itching.

Sebum production varies with hormones, genetics and the season. In a controlled study, satisfaction was highest with 5–6 washes a week, and daily washing did not damage the hair shaft. What matters is that the shampoo is gentle.