March is Women’s History Month—a time to honor the strength, resilience, and beauty of women. That’s why we’re taking a moment to highlight an important aspect of self-care: healthy hair, starting at the scalp.
For Black women, hair is more than just hair—it’s a legacy, a form of self-expression, and a symbol of empowerment. But common struggles like dryness, dandruff, and slow growth often stem from scalp health, an area that’s frequently overlooked in hair care routines.
In this video essay, we’re breaking down:
The biggest myths about scalp care (spoiler: oils don’t moisturize your scalp!)
The science behind dandruff & dryness and how to fix it
A scalp-friendly routine to promote growth & prevent irritation
Natural Hair Myths & Truths
MYTH: Natural hair doesn’t need frequent washing.
TRUTH: Black hair doesn’t need to be washed daily, but regular cleansing (weekly or biweekly) prevents buildup and keeps the scalp healthy.
MYTH: Oils provide the scalp with all its needed moisture.
TRUTH: Moisture comes from water—oils seal it in but don’t hydrate.
MYTH: Trims make your hair grow faster.
TRUTH: Hair grows from the scalp, not the ends!
Scalp Care Must Knows
Shampoo Smartly: Use sulfate-free shampoos and avoid irritants like parabens & fragrances.
Wash Based on Your Routine: Every 7–10 days works for most, but co-wash every 4–5 days if you use lots of products.
Use Oils Strategically: Peppermint oil for growth, jojoba for balance, castor for strength.
Exfoliate Your Scalp: A scalp scrub or gentle exfoliation removes dead skin and product buildup.
Ingredients to Avoid
Harsh chemicals are often the root cause of dandruff and scalp dryness. According to The Silent Spring Institute, stay away from products containing:
Siloxane & Cyclomethicone – Linked to hormonal imbalances
Benzophenone, Octinoxate, Oxybenzone – Known hormonal disruptors
Parabens, DEA, Triclosan, Fragrance/Perfume – Common allergens & scalp irritants
Want to dive deeper? Watch the full video essay for expert tips, product recommendations, and a step-by-step scalp care routine!
Contributing edits by our Winter ‘25 Student Writing Program editor, Hala Idrees, with final oversight & edits byAmarissa.
Today’s writer…
Zayna is a participant in Fashion Talk's Winter 2025 Student Writing Program. Aligned with our mission to uplift emerging voices in the fashion industry, we’re excited to share her fresh and insightful perspective with our community.
You can get to know her here!
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