Why "Less is More" is the Real Secret to Scalp Health

Scalp oils are trending across social media, with many people turning to DIY blends and exotic oils in hopes of promoting hair growth and scalp health. But the truth?Scientific evidence points to something simpler: scalp care is best approached with moderation and an understanding of your individual needs.

At Mijo®, we believe in gentle, evidence-based routines that respect your scalp’s natural balance.

The Science on Scalp Oils

Oils can benefit certain hair types and conditions—but they also carry potential risks, especially when applied directly to the scalp.

Potential Benefits

• Coconut oil has antimicrobial and antifungal properties and may help moisturize the scalp and hair shaft[1][2][5]. It can also modulate the scalp microbiome and may reduce dandruff in some individuals[2].
• Oils can act as emollients, improving manageability—especially for dry, coarse, or tightly curled hair[1][5].

That’s why we use coconut-based surfactants in Mijo® shampoos: Cocoglucoside, Sodium Cocoyl Apple Amino Acids, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate.

Potential Risks

• Oils can trap dirt, sweat, and dead skin, clogging hair follicles and leading to inflammation[5].
• For those prone to dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis, oiling may worsen symptoms by feeding microbial overgrowth[5].
• Essential oils and heavily fragranced blends may irritate sensitive skin or exacerbate underlying scalp issues[5].
• Oils may weigh down fine or straight hair or make existing scalp issues worse[5].

Cleansing as Scalp Self-Care

Another trend gaining popularity is infrequent hair washing—sometimes just once per week. But research shows regular cleansing is essential for a healthy scalp.

Natural sebum, pollution, and product residues build up over time. Without proper washing, these can clog follicles and trigger irritation[3].

• One study found that people were most satisfied with their scalp condition when washing 5–6 times per week[3].

At Mijo®, we recommend:

• Fragrance-free, gentle cleansing to remove buildup without stripping the scalp
• Avoiding oils that can suffocate follicles or disrupt your scalp’s microbiome
• Choosing biodegradable, non-comedogenic ingredients that support your skin’s natural function

What Your Scalp Really Needs

Instead of masking scalp issues with heavy oils, the path to long-term scalp health is about supporting your skin’s barrier with clean, lightweight, science-backed ingredients.

Look for products that:

• Effectively remove buildup without harsh surfactants
• Are free from fragrances, silicones, and petroleum-based ingredients
• Help restore moisture balance without clogging pores

This is exactly how we formulate every Mijo® shampoo:

Clean. Minimal. Effective. Always in harmony with your scalp’s biology.

Final Thoughts

Scalp health doesn’t require trends or 10-step routines. The science suggests that doing less—gently and intentionally—is often more effective.

For many people, this means:

• Frequent, gentle cleansing
• Avoiding heavy or irritating oils
• Choosing products that support the scalp’s natural state

At Mijo®, we’re here to help you find that balance with scalp-first hair care that’s as thoughtful as it is effective.

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[1]: [Hair Oils: Indigenous Knowledge Revisited – PMC](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9231528/)

[2]: [Scalp Microbiome & Coconut Oil – PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33790324/)

[3]: [Shampoo Frequency and Scalp Health – PMC](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8138261/)

[4]: [Hair Oiling: Benefits and Tips – Cleveland Clinic](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/oiling-hair)

[5]: [Fragrance-Free Hair Products Are Better – Bouclème](https://boucleme.us/blogs/news/why-fragrance-free-hair-products-are-better-for-your-skin)

[6]: [Scalp Microbiome Study – Nature](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-86454-1)

[7]: [Blocked Hair Follicles – Healthline](https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/blocked-hair-follicles)

[8]: [Healthy Scalp Tips – Curlsmith](https://curlsmith.com/blogs/scalp-health/healthy-scalp-tips)

[9]: [Essential Oils and Hair – Healthline](https://www.healthline.com/health/essential-oils-for-hair-growth)

[10]: [Scalp Condition and Hair Growth – PMC](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6369642/)

[11]: [How to Oil Hair Safely – Healthline](https://www.healthline.com/health/hair-oiling-benefits-oil-and-how-to)

[12]: [Stress and the Hair Follicle – PMC](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1868107/)