Yes, most of us know how to tame the frizz and keep your waves in check. However, even the beauty gurus become almost clueless when it comes to dealing with that itchy scalp treatment. Plus ladies, an itchy scalp is not only owing to common dandruff drama…there’s also more to it!
And while this may seem like a one in a million prob, a dry scalp is a very common problem, and if ignored, can not only cause a lot of scratchiness and discomfort. And while the best way to deal with this problem; the no-brainer solution is to use the right kind of hair care products. However, sometimes your best effort is not enough as well. Which is why, you may need to go the extra mile and do a bit more in order to keep your hair healthy and moisturised.
But if you are curious about the basics, worry not for we’ve stocked up on 4 major reasons for dry, flaky and itchy scalp and how to deal with it.
Itchy Scalp Causes & How to Treat It: The Basics
Say goodbye to itchiness - your scalp saviour reasons are all here!
Itchy Scalp Cause #1: Seborrheic Dermatitis (dandruff)
Seborrheic dermatitis is another name for dandruff and appears on the body where there are a lot of oil-producing (sebaceous) glands and mainly appears on your scalp causing dryness and flakiness. While the exact cause is unknown, it’s said that genes and hormones play a major role.
FYI: There is no permanent cure for dandruff, but there are ways to keep it in control and tone down the flakiness. The easiest fix is to get a good anti-dandruff shampoo. Do a label check and pick options containing zinc pyrithione or selenium sulphide for best results. Apply only on your scalp and try to leave the shampoo on for a couple of minutes to work its magic. If the condition is getting out of hand, talk to your dermatologist. You can also grab an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream (1 %) and apply it twice a day for a week. And lastly, if you’re looking for a product to get your hands on, we’ve fans of the one and only - Dove Dandruff Care Shampoo and Conditioner. Best in the business, it does what it says and says what it does!
Itchy Scalp Cause #2: Wrong diet
It is a well-known fact that what you eat shows up on your skin and hair. A diet rich in high-carb foods like bread, potatoes and dairy can lead to increased yeast on your scalp. This leads to the dry, flaky and itchy scalp.
We don't suggest cutting down on carbs altogether, but if you have been struggling with dandruff for long, try cutting back on them. Supplement your hair health with omega-3 fatty acid-rich foods, fish oil supplements, a diet rich in zinc and vitamins A, B, and C from fruits and veggies. Also, keep your dry scalp hydrated by drinking lots of water.
Itchy Scalp Cause #3: Lack of rest
When you haven’t taken a step back and are continually on the go, your stress levels are bound to shoot up and this can create an imbalance in the normal functioning of the body and immune system — thus, reducing stress can also reduce your risk of getting dandruff; itchy scalp. So much so, a spike in tension can make existing dandruff worse or it can trigger the condition of dandruff. So, taking a chill pill is the best way out. .
Itchy Scalp Cause #4: Not using the right hair cleanser
Product build-up from gels, creams, balms, pomades and sprays lead to flaky and itchy scalp. A number of harsh ingredients present in these products — especially hair dyes and protective sprays — can cause allergies in your scalp. Always do a patch test of any new product you are planning to use. You can also schedule an appointment with your dermatologist to do a full trial on which ingredients make your skin act out. Use this information to make all your future buys!
Dryness on your scalp can be worsened by your hair care habits too. Depending on how often you wash out hair, flaky and itchy scalp can prevail. Shampooing too often dries out your scalp, and on the flip side, infrequent washes can lead to oil build-up. Go over your hair washing habits and consider adding dry shampoo to your hair care routine. Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner if you are not able to stretch out your hair wash cycle - we suggest nothing but the - Love Beauty & Planet Tea Tree and Vetiver Aroma Radical Refresher Shampoo and Conditioner.
Itchy Scalp Cause #5: No hydration and moisturisation
Hair masks can help eliminate an itchy scalp while nourishing and conditioning your hair. They address the root cause of your scalp flaking, itchiness and inflammation. To plunge to this tempting domain, you can either get #DIYing with some easily accessible ingredients or get your hands on the unfailing; Dove’s Intense Damage Repair Hair Mask. Made with moisturising cream and keratin actives, this mask unveils its true potential when left on the locks for 15 minutes. So, the next time you feel the itch, just make up the Dove way!
Itchy Scalp Cause #6: Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a common skin ailment that causes red and flaky patches which result in itchiness. If you are dealing with psoriasis on your body. Chances are you might get it on your scalp too. This issue requires attention from professionals as you cannot treat it on your own. The usual treatment for psoriasis-induced flaky and itchy scalp is hair washes with salicylic acid or mineral oil in them. That is why it is important to consult a professional to take a call on the right product that won't weigh your hair down!
FAQs about Itchy Scalp Causes & How to Treat It
Discuss some commonly asked questions here, examples below;
Q1 Does dandruff lead to hair loss?
A1: Dandruff itself does not cause hair loss. However, severe dandruff can cause a person to scratch their scalp so hard that they injure it. Repeated inflammation in the hair follicles can cause damage and scarring, slowing or stopping hair growth. This can cause weak or thinning hair.
Q2 Is dandruff related to gut health?
A2: Yes, dandruff is persistent, it is usually a sign of yeast-overgrowth elsewhere in the body, particularly the gastrointestinal tract. Hence, your belief that the root of your problem is in your digestive tract and diet is right!
Q3 Can sharing combs or brushes lead to dandruff?
Yes, refrain from sharing your combs and brushes regularly as that can hamper the quality of your locks. How? When you comb through your hair, the teeth of your comb may make the dirt and oils from someone else’s mane. This transfer can cause issues and infections — one of them being, itchy scalp.
Written by Anushka Shah on Jan 12, 2023