There is a misconception that wet and damp hair is equivalent, however, this is untrue. Wet hair has a different moisture content than damp hair. The former is roughly 70–80% dry, whereas the latter is completely sopped and has water flowing off it. Additionally, applying any styling product to damp hair, such as wax, gel, or pomade, results in a sleek, wet, and groomed appearance that is different from how wet hair actually appears.
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Can Dandruff Be Caused by Damp Hair?
No, damp hair does not directly cause dandruff, however, leaving your hair damp for an extended period of time may indirectly create dandruff. A bacterium that is constantly present on your scalp and prefers a warm, humid environment is the source of dandruff. Therefore, tying up wet hair prevents the entire hair shaft from drying, which causes an accumulation of sebum and undesired moisture on the scalp.
Additionally, the warmth of your head and the moisture from your hair will promote the growth of dangerous germs that cause scalp infections. All these unfavourable processes might lead to dandruff and leave the skin on your scalp dry and flaky.
How Come Your Hair Has a Damp Smell?
The thickest skin on our body and the scalp contains more blood than any other area of the body. Additionally, it has sebaceous glands, which create sebum, which shields the hair.
Although it’s crucial to maintain our scalps clean, we frequently stress about keeping our hair clean. When wet hair is not allowed to dry for an extended amount of time, mildew develops on the scalp and hair. Mildew propagates more as a result of the moisture being trapped in the hair. Therefore, it would be beneficial if you constantly set aside time to completely air dry your hair after washing it.
Additionally, you should wash your hair after sweaty activities because your scalp’s extra sweat and oil serve as the perfect environment for microorganisms to grow. Additionally, there’s a danger that your shampoo won’t work to eliminate the bacteria causing the unpleasant odour. The majority of shampoos only effectively clean your hair of debris and sebum, not your scalp. You can select several natural remedies in these circumstances to stop the offensive odour.
How Can I Naturally Get Rid of Damp Hair Smell?
Shikakai
Shikakai is a natural cleaning agent with antibacterial and antifungal characteristics. Vitamins and saponins are also abundant in it. Shikakai aids in the treatment of dandruff-related scalp diseases and promotes healthy hair development. Shikakai’s mildness allows it to effectively cleanse your hair without damaging the cuticle or overdrying it.
Neem
Neem is a natural component with antibacterial capabilities that can eliminate the musty smell that develops in your hair after bacteria or fungal buildup. Additionally, it contains restorative qualities that lessen hair loss and improve blood flow. Neem also has fatty acids that nourish your hair, including oleic, linoleic, and stearic acids.
Neem oil should be diluted in equal parts with a carrier oil, such as sweet almond oil or sesame oil, before being gently massaged into the scalp. 30 minutes are given for it to function. Use a natural hair cleanser to clean.
Hibiscus
The hibiscus flower’s amino acid provides the hair with all the necessary elements to encourage hair development. Additionally, it aids in preventing dryness and hair odour. Utilize some Hibiscus flowers, leaves, and Tulsi leaves to create a natural shampoo. With water, pulverize them to create a paste. After 30 minutes, wash this out of your hair. You’ll notice that your moist hair’s unpleasant odour is starting to disappear.
Lavender Oil
The antimicrobial and antibacterial qualities of lavender oil help to maintain healthy scalps and combat bacteria that cause bad odours in your hair and scalp. Furthermore, it reduces scalp dryness and skin inflammation.
Applying lavender oil to your hair can promote faster hair growth by improving blood flow to the hair follicles. To lessen the stench from your damp hair, mix a few drops of lavender oil with three tablespoons of carrier oil and apply it to your hair.
Clove oil
Due to its medicinal qualities, clove is an Ayurvedic treatment that offers a wealth of advantages. It deals with a wide range of hair issues. Apply clove oil to your scalp and hair for anti-microbial, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties that prevent damp hair odour.
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