Signs Your Scalp Is Begging for a Winter Reset

Ever notice your scalp feeling drier, itchier or just… fussier as winter settles in across Australia?
You’re not imagining it, cooler weather, heaters, stress and seasonal changes can all throw your scalp wildly off balance.

If you’re dreaming of strong, glossy, healthy hair through the colder months, it’s time to check in with the skin beneath your strands.

Today we’re breaking down five telltale signs your scalp needs a reset and sharing gentle, holistic ways to bring it back to harmony.

1. Dandruff

If flakes are dusting your shoulders or you’re avoiding dark clothing, your scalp is sending a very clear message.

Dandruff often stems from a microbial imbalance that leads to inflammation. Winter makes this worse. A healthier scalp microbiome = fewer flakes and far happier follicles.

Try this:

• Add more anti-inflammatory, immune-supportive foods — leafy greens, salmon, walnuts, flaxseeds, turmeric.

• Reduce stress (yoga, meditation, long walks, or a warm shower hair-mask moment).

• Treat yourself to a tea tree oil head massage (always diluted!).

2. Dryness

Winter’s low humidity + indoor heating = a recipe for dry, tight, itchy scalps. A hydrated scalp produces hair that feels softer, shinier and more manageable, winter doesn’t have to mean dull strands.

Hydrate inside-out by:

• Drinking more water, herbal teas or nourishing soups

• Increasing healthy fats (avocado, almonds, chia, olive oil)

• Protecting your scalp barrier with gentle, non-stripping shampoos

3. Oiliness

Surprisingly, winter can also make your scalp oilier. With humidity dropping, your scalp may overcompensate with extra sebum. Add scarves, beanies, and sweat into the mix, and your wash cycle may suddenly feel “off”.

Try balancing with:

• Washing 1–3 times weekly (not more, not less)

• Avoiding heavy styling products on the roots

• Managing stress & staying active to help regulate hormones

4. Itchiness

If you can’t stop scratching, there’s a reason — itchiness can signal inflammation, dehydration, product irritation, or even heat-tool overuse. Small shifts can dramatically calm an irritated scalp.

Give your scalp a break:

• Minimise blow-drying and straightening

• Air-dry when possible (but never go to bed with wet hair)

• Avoid tight ponytails or buns that lock in moisture and disrupt your scalp microbiome

• Try a soothing essential-oil massage (lavender or tea tree + a carrier oil)

5. Hair Loss

Thinning hair or increased shedding can feel alarming, but it’s often your scalp’s way of saying it needs support now. Strengthening the follicle foundation improves long-term density and thickness.

Focus on:

• Boosting scalp circulation (massage, gentle exfoliation)

• Eating protein-rich foods (eggs, legumes, lean meats, tofu)

• Managing stress, which directly impacts the hair-growth cycle

6. Our Winter Scalp Reset Essentials

• Crowning Glory
  • This intensive scalp treatment is made for cooler months. Crowning Glory works to rebalance oil production, thanks to Activated Vitamin B2, Selenium, and omega fatty acids. Whether you struggle with dryness, flakiness, itchiness or winter oiliness, Crowning Glory nurtures your scalp back to equilibrium.
• 5-in-1 Scalp & Shampoo Brush
  • Your must-have shower tool. It exfoliates, massages, detoxes, detangles and boosts circulation, everything your winter scalp is craving. The silicone fingers mimic an in-salon wash, helping your shampoo reach every area of the scalp for a deeper cleanse and a healthier hair environment.

Souce: Apotecari