How To Tackle A Dry And Itchy Scalp

A dry and itchy scalp is more common than you think, in fact over 50% of people suffer from this at some point in their life.

Though to many haircare is simply looking after the roots of the hair, it is crucial to realise the importance of scalp health, and how this can be affected with an incorrect haircare routine. Looking after your scalp is important not only to avoid a dry and itchy scalp, but also because scalp issues are linked to thinning hair, hair breakage, reduced shine, and rough hair texture. 

What is a dry scalp?

A dry scalp may develop when the skin on your head experiences excessive water or moisture loss, leading to itching and flaking. This irritation results in the shedding of skin from your scalp. Several factors can contribute to a dry scalp, including the potential drying and irritating effects of certain hair care products. Additionally, environmental elements like weather and the natural ageing process can impact the condition of your scalp. However, more severe skin conditions could also be responsible for causing a dry scalp.

What’s the difference between dandruff and dry scalp?

Both dry scalp and dandruff can lead to an itchy, flaky scalp, often making it challenging to distinguish between the two. However, the primary distinction lies in the origins of each condition. Dandruff is typically attributed to excess oil, while a dry scalp results from a lack of moisture.

When the scalp produces excessive oil, it prompts the accumulation of skin cells. This accumulation can manifest as red, oily, and scaly patches on the scalp. The scales shed rapidly, leading to the presence of dandruff, which appears as larger pieces of dry skin flaking off the scalp. Dandruff tends to recur intermittently and is a prevalent issue.

Seborrheic dermatitis is the primary cause of dandruff, arising from various factors such as yeast present on the skin, stress, or underlying health conditions. This condition can also affect infants, known as “cradle cap,” characterized by a scaly, dry scalp in babies.

Conversely, a dry scalp can cause itching and flaking but differs from dandruff. If you’re experiencing a dry scalp, it might extend to other parts of your body, displaying overall dryness. Furthermore, the root cause of this condition varies, as it stems from a loss of moisture triggered by diverse factors, including different skin conditions.

What causes a dry and itchy scalp?

A lack of water or moisture on the skin of your hair can cause a dry scalp to occur, which subsequently can cause itching and flaking. Potential causes for a lack of moisture include sun damage, using the incorrect hair products, the weather and styling your hair at a high heat.

How is dry scalp treated?

Dry scalp treatment depends on the cause of the condition. If hair products have caused the condition, you may just have to do a better job rinsing out your shampoo. Shampoo that’s left behind after you shower could be irritating your scalp.

If that doesn’t work, you may be able to try home remedies for your dry scalp. If a hair care product is causing contact dermatitis, you may have to stop using that product. You can usually get rid of dry scalp by switching to a non-medicated, gentle shampoo. A shampoo for dry scalp helps stop the dryness and flakes.

If a more serious health issue is causing your condition, call your healthcare provider. A dermatologist can diagnose your condition and help fix your dry scalp. Treatments may include:

What products should you use for a dry and itchy scalp?

Scalp Brush

Hair Oil

Hair Mask

Shampoo & Conditioner

Top 3 Things To Do To Prevent An Itchy Scalp In The Future

1. Shampoo your hair properly

Though applying shampoo seems like a simple task, you would be surprised at how many people are actually doing it incorrectly. In order to deeply cleanse your hair and scalp and reduce buildup, it is advised that you ensure every strand of your hair is wet, before massaging the shampoo into your scalp for at least 3 minutes and rinse thoroughly. As a general rule of thumb, it is recommended that you rinse your hair for an extra two minutes after you think it is fully rinsed.

2. Avoid styling your hair with high heat

Although it’s tempting, there’s no doubt that styling your hair with a high heat is not good for your hair. But did you know that it could also contribute to a dry scalp? Any heat close to the scalp can damage its moisture barrier, allowing for moisture to escape. Therefore, if you are going to use heat on your hair, make sure that it’s at a lower temperature, no higher than 180°C, and that you are careful around your scalp.

3. Stay Hydrated

Whether it’s for your body, skin or hair, staying hydrated is essential. By drinking plenty of water, your scalp remains hydrated and healthy, and issues such as itchiness and dryness can be prevented.

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