Scalp Care 101: Keep Your Hair Healthy During Sweaty Summer Days (For Men)
If you live in New York—especially Brooklyn—you know summer doesn’t play around. Between the humidity, subway heat, and rooftop workouts, your scalp goes through it. And if you’re not taking care of it, you’ll feel it: itchiness, oil overload, maybe even some hair thinning.
At our Japanese hair salon in Brooklyn, we’re big on simple, effective routines that keep your hair and scalp happy year-round—especially when things get sweaty. Here’s your go-to guide for keeping your scalp clean, calm, and healthy all summer long.
1. Cleanse the Right Way
Sweat builds up fast in the summer, and if you’re not cleansing properly, it lingers—along with dirt, oil, and bacteria. That’s how you end up with dandruff, breakouts, or worse, shedding.
Wash more often if needed: If you’re active or naturally oily, don’t be afraid to wash your hair more often. Just do it right.
Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo: Harsh shampoos strip your scalp, making it produce more oil to compensate. Look for sulfate-free options that cleanse without over-drying.
Try a scalp-focused product: We love Milbon’s Scalp Massage Shampoo. It deep cleans without stripping and feels amazing after a long, hot day.
2. Hydration Isn’t Just for Skin
Your scalp is skin. It needs hydration too—especially after sun exposure, sweating, and regular washing.
Drink water (seriously): It sounds basic, but dehydration shows up on your scalp fast: dryness, flaking, tightness. Stay hydrated from the inside out.
Add a scalp serum or hydrating oil: Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, squalane, or peppermint oil. These soothe and balance the scalp without clogging pores.
Rinse with cool water post-gym: Hot water + sweat = dry scalp. Cool water helps reduce inflammation and salt buildup.
3. Protect It Like You Do Your Skin
Most people forget their scalp is getting sunburned—until it flakes or stings.
Wear a hat: The easiest fix. Especially if you’re outside for long periods.
Use UV-protective hair products: Some leave-ins come with built-in SPF or UV filters. Great if you’re not a hat person.
Skip the hot tools: Blow dryers and flat irons can dry out your scalp even more. Let your hair air-dry when you can.
4. Bonus Tips for a Healthier Scalp
If you want to go the extra mile (or need to calm things down fast), try these:
Scalp exfoliation: Just like your face, your scalp benefits from a good scrub. It removes buildup and encourages healthy hair growth.
Scalp massages: Boost circulation, relieve tension, and promote growth. You can do it yourself or come in for a pro massage using Milbon’s scalp products.
Eat for your scalp: Omega-3s, biotin, and zinc help support scalp health. Think salmon, nuts, leafy greens, and eggs.
Deep condition weekly: A good mask can restore moisture and soothe a stressed-out scalp.
Real Talk: Why It Matters
Ignoring your scalp during summer is like skipping sunscreen. You might not notice the damage right away, but it adds up. A clean, balanced scalp means healthier hair, less irritation, and more confidence—no matter how sweaty the season gets.
Q&A: Common Scalp Care Questions
Q: Can I wash my hair every day in summer?
A: If you sweat a lot or work out daily, yes—just use a sulfate-free shampoo and follow with a lightweight conditioner.
Q: What if my scalp feels itchy even after washing?
A: You might be over-washing or using harsh products. Try switching to a hydrating, pH-balanced shampoo like Milbon’s and avoid hot water.
Q: Do I really need UV protection for my scalp?
A: 100%. Scalp sunburn is real and can lead to peeling, irritation, and even hair loss. A hat or UV spray goes a long way.
Need help picking the right products or want a relaxing scalp massage treatment?
Book a scalp-focused appointment at our Brooklyn salon today
