To combat an itchy scalp, it’s important to know what the cause of the itch is. Many of us experience the telltale white flakes, redness and itchiness and automatically assume the cause must be dandruff. However, this isn’t always the case. Dandruff is caused by excess oil building up on the scalp, which builds up on the skin and causes it to shed.
The best way to determine if you have dandruff is by visiting a dermatologist. They will be able to diagnose the cause of your itchy scalp and provide you with medication to combat the issue.
If you’ve found that dandruff isn’t the issue, then it’s always a good idea to pay attention to your hair routine. How your hair reacts after certain activities will help signal what the problem might be!
Dry scalp can be caused by a number of factors including:
- Cold and windy weather conditions
- Protective styling worn too long/too tight (weaves, extensions, braids, etc.)
- Hygiene
- Washing hair too often
- Harsh shampoos/conditioners
Listen to your hair! Pay attention to your routine and see how your hair responds. It will help to determine the cause of dry scalp. If you use a shampoo with sulfates, you may find that it might be a bit too harsh for your hair. Consider switching to a gentler sulfate-free shampoo. When protective styling, make sure your braids or weaves aren’t installed tightly, as this can create tension for the scalp and cause itching. Also, be sure to wash your hair regularly even with extensions installed.
Be mindful when applying products to the hair and scalp, as some products can really clog your hair follicles and cause itching. If you exercise often and find your hair gets itchy after a workout, try rinsing your hair with water or try a co-wash if your hair feels dirty.
If you find that your hair routine is solid, dry scalp may just be caused by the weather. Scalp massages, exfoliation, and oil treatments are all great methods for dealing with dry scalp. You can also try incorporating more natural oils into your regular routine; coconut, jojoba and grapeseed oil are all amazing oils that work wonders on the hair and scalp.
What are some of your remedies for dry scalp? Let us know in the comment section!
