Every year, as the weather gets colder, PM2.5 levels in Bangkok and many major cities consistently soar above standard. While many may be familiar with the effects on the respiratory system, what is often overlooked is the impact on the scalp and hair follicles, which are more delicate than one might think.
At PAPILLA, we've noticed that during periods of high dust levels, many clients experience abnormal hair loss, inflamed scalps, excessive oiliness, itchiness, or increased dandruff, as PM2.5 particles can penetrate deeper into hair follicles than previously thought.
Today, we would like to recommend 7 effective scalp care methods that you can start practicing immediately.
What does PM2.5 do to your scalp?
PM2.5 refers to fine dust particles smaller than 2.5 microns, which are smaller than the hair follicles on the scalp. Therefore, they can:
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Clog hair follicles
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Cause inflammation
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Weaken hair roots
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Accelerate abnormal hair loss
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Unbalance the scalp (leading to easy oiliness/dryness/itchiness)
Recent research from the Journal of Dermatological Science, 2024, clearly states that PM2.5 has a direct effect on the oxidative stress of hair root cells, causing hair to grow slower and fall out faster.
7 Ways to Protect Your Scalp from PM2.5, PAPILLA Style
1. Wash your hair every time you return home.
Washing off dust immediately prevents it from penetrating into the hair follicles.
Use warm water at a comfortable temperature and gently massage the scalp to stimulate blood circulation.
PAPILLA Tips:
On days with very high AQI, it is recommended to wash your hair twice for deeper cleansing.
2. Do a Deep Cleansing Scalp Treatment once a week.
This helps remove deeply embedded PM2.5 that regular shampooing cannot reach.
It is suitable for those with oily, itchy, or "heavy" scalp sensations.
Option 1: Do it yourself at home (Basic Care)
Suitable for basic care.
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Use a Scalp Scrub or Detox Shampoo.
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Do it 1–2 times a week.
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Helps reduce oiliness and superficial residue.
Option 2: Do it at PAPILLA (Advanced Care for more noticeable results)
For those who require deep cleansing beyond what general products can provide.
PAPILLA uses 2 specialized technologies:
• Micro Bubble Technology
Micro-sized bubbles, smaller than PM2.5, can actually dislodge impurities from hair follicles,
helping to reduce clogging that causes hair loss and itching.
• DNA Cleansing
Deep cleansing technology at the cellular level helps eliminate accumulated toxins,
restoring scalp balance and preparing hair roots for subsequent nourishment.
3. Cover your hair or wear a hat when leaving the house.
Why it's important: Prevention is better than cure. Create a protective barrier for your scalp and hair.
How to do it:
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Wear a breathable fabric hat (avoid hats that are too tight).
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Use a lightweight hair cover.
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If riding a motorcycle, use a helmet with a clean inner lining.
⚠️ Caution: Do not wear wet or damp hats, as they can become a breeding ground for fungi.
4. Spray PM2.5 protective spray on your hair.
Why it's important: PM2.5 protective spray creates a thin film coating the hair, helping to reduce dust adhesion.
How to do it:
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Spray 15-20 cm away from the head.
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Spray evenly over the hair, especially areas exposed outdoors.
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Reapply every 4-6 hours if staying outdoors for a long time.
5. Boost antioxidants for your scalp (both external and internal).
Why it's important: PM2.5 causes oxidative stress on the scalp — a process where free radicals damage cells and hair roots, leading to hair loss, scalp inflammation, and weakened hair. Boosting antioxidants helps fight and repair this damage.
🧴 External care: Scalp Serum
Choose a Scalp Serum with key ingredients:
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
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Helps protect cells from free radicals caused by PM2.5.
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Stimulates collagen production in the scalp.
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Strengthens hair roots.
Vitamin E (Tocopherol)
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A powerful antioxidant.
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Repairs damaged cells.
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Helps keep the scalp moisturized and not dry.
Green Tea Extract
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Rich in EGCG (a strong antioxidant).
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Reduces scalp inflammation.
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Inhibits DHT hormone that causes hair loss.
Resveratrol
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Helps repair damage from PM2.5.
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Stimulates blood circulation to hair roots.
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Helps new hair grow stronger.
Additional options:
💊 Take as vitamin supplements (enhances effectiveness from within).
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Vitamin C: 500-1,000 mg/day
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Vitamin E: 15-400 mg/day
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Green Tea Extract: 250-500 mg/day or drink 2-3 cups of green tea.
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Resveratrol: 150-500 mg/day
⚠️ Caution: Consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking vitamin supplements, especially if you have underlying conditions or are taking medication.
💡 Recommendation: Applying Scalp Serum + eating a proper diet will yield the best results because it cares for both external and internal aspects. Vitamin supplements are not necessary if you eat a balanced diet.
6. Avoid using high heat on your hair.
Why it's important: When the scalp and hair are already damaged by PM2.5, using heat will further worsen their condition.
How to do it:
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Reduce the use of hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons.
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If you must use them, set the temperature no higher than 180°C.
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Apply heat protection spray every time before using heat.
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Maintain a distance of at least 15 cm from the scalp.
💡 Alternative: Try heatless styling methods, such as braiding or air-drying your hair.
7. Receive deep care with Advanced Care Treatment at PAPILLA.
This is the most effective step for those who want to restore their scalp from the effects of PM2.5, especially when dust has accumulated to the point of affecting hair roots and hair growth.
PAPILLA’s Hybrid PicoJet Technology
Advanced technology designed to accelerate targeted scalp regeneration,
helping to recondition the scalp through detoxification and efficient nutrient delivery.
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PicoJet pressure helps push nutrients deep into the hair roots.
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Detoxifies PM2.5 dust and toxins that cling to and embed within hair follicles.
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Stimulates blood circulation to enhance hair root function.
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Reduces inflammation and soothes the scalp, making it less sensitive to pollution.
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Strengthens hair roots, promoting better new hair growth.
When to see a PAPILLA specialist
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Hair loss exceeding 100 strands/day.
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Itchy, red, or rash-prone scalp.
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Abnormally excessive dandruff.
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Thinning hair or a more visible scalp.
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Abnormally quick scalp oiliness.
Caring for your scalp in the era of PM2.5 dust is not difficult.
By incorporating proper care and consistently seeking expert treatment, you can protect your scalp and hair, keeping them strong and healthy.
PAPILLA by Kim Lim is ready to care for you with Advanced Care Treatment programs tailored specifically for you.
✔ Detoxifies deeply accumulated PM2.5 dust
✔ Hybrid Pico Jet Technology
✔ Personalized Scalp Analysis
✔ Non-invasive scalp care by experts
Let PAPILLA experts analyze and care for your scalp professionally for beautiful, healthy, and sustainably radiant hair.
Book now for new customers and receive a 30% discount* on your first trial.
PAPILLA by KIM LIM Hair & Scalp Centre No.1 from Singapore* is now available for you to experience.
Elevate your scalp care. Book an appointment or inquire further at:
Line: @papillabykimlimth
Phone: 099 649 2585, 02-116-2528, 02-116-2529
WhatsApp: +66996492585
Operating hours: Open daily from 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Location: Erawan Bangkok, 4th Floor (BTS Chidlom)
