Scalp
The scalp covers the skull and houses dense hair follicles and sebaceous glands. It bears weighty social meaning through hairstyles while protecting the head from sun and minor trauma.
Layers
A common mnemonic is SCALP:
- Skin
- Connective tissue (dense)
- Aponeurosis (galea)
- Loose areolar tissue
- Pericranium
Common issues
- Dandruff/seborrhoeic dermatitis (flaking, itch)
- Lice
- Folliculitis or irritation from tight hairstyles and accessories
Microbiome and product use:
- The scalp microbiome (Malassezia species among fungi, and diverse bacterial taxa) interacts with sebum and product use; harsh surfactants and over‑cleansing can alter this ecosystem and aggravate dandruff or irritation in sensitive individuals.
- Product application: apply heavy conditioners to lengths and ends rather than the scalp to avoid pore blockage; use scalp-specific treatments where indicated and follow contact‑time instructions for medicated shampoos.
Sun protection:
- The scalp is vulnerable to UV exposure, especially in thinning areas; hats and sunscreen on exposed skin protect both skin and hair pigments from photodamage.
Writing Tips
- Use the scalp as a sensory canvas: warmth under a hat, the prickle of regrowth, the relief of loosening a tight ponytail.
- Hairstyles and headwear can mark identity, culture, profession, or mood.
Example
"When she slid out the pins, the ache at her crown melted; her hair spilled down with a sigh she could feel on her scalp."