Posted by Ryoho Cosmetics
on April 24, 2026
You talk about your skin microbiome, your gut microbiome… but did you know that your scalp also has one? And that ignoring it is probably the reason your hair isn't quite how you want it, even if you use expensive products.
The hair microbiome is one of the great forgotten aspects of cosmetics, but science has been studying it for years. At Ryōho Cosmetics, we keep it very much in mind in our formulations. Today, we explain what it is, why it matters, and how to care for it.
What is the hair microbiome?
The scalp harbors millions of microorganisms: bacteria, fungi, and yeasts that coexist in a complex and delicate ecosystem. When this ecosystem is in balance, the result is a healthy scalp, without irritation, without excess oil, and with strong, shiny hair.
When it becomes unbalanced – due to the use of aggressive products, very hard water, stress, or a poor diet – symptoms that we all recognize appear:
- Persistent dandruff
- Oily scalp within a few hours of washing
- Itching or a feeling of irritation
- Lifeless, dull, or brittle hair
- Diffuse hair loss with no apparent cause
The silent enemy: sulfates and harsh preservatives
Most conventional shampoos contain sulfates (SLS, SLES) that clean effectively but indiscriminately: they remove dirt and the beneficial microbiota of the scalp. It's like using broad-spectrum antibiotics every time you wash your hair.
The result is a scalp that loses its natural protective barrier, becomes more reactive, and produces more sebum to compensate – which leads us to wash our hair more often, perpetuating the cycle.
Prebiotics: the solution your scalp has been waiting for
Prebiotics are compounds that selectively feed beneficial bacteria in the microbiome, helping to restore balance without eliminating what is already working well. Unlike probiotics (live microorganisms), prebiotics are stable in cosmetic formulations and act progressively and sustainedly.
Their documented benefits for the scalp include:
- Reduction of inflammation and itching
- Regulation of sebum production
- Strengthening of the scalp's skin barrier
- Improved hair density and shine in the long term
- Reduced tendency to fungal dandruff
How to incorporate microbiome care into your routine?
You don't need to change your entire routine at once. These are the key steps:
- Change your shampoo. Look for sulfate-free formulas with active prebiotics. This is the change with the greatest impact.
- Reduce washing frequency. Washing your hair every day disrupts the microbiome. Try to space out washes progressively.
- Lukewarm, not hot water. Very hot water dilates pores and alters the scalp microbiota.
- Massage your scalp. This stimulates circulation and distributes the shampoo's active ingredients where they are most needed.
- Be consistent. It takes 4 to 8 weeks for the microbiome to rebalance. Results are gradual but long-lasting.
The Ryōho formulation: uncompromising
Our Shampoo with Prebiotics is specifically formulated to respect and nourish the hair microbiome. Free of harsh sulfates, occlusive silicones, and with plant-based prebiotics that work in synergy with your scalp's natural microbiota.
The result is not immediate – and that's a good sign. It means you're treating the cause, not masking the symptom.
A healthy scalp is the foundation of healthy hair. Everything else – serums, masks, treatments – works better when the underlying ecosystem is in balance.
Discover our Shampoo with Prebiotics and start caring for your hair from the roots.
