The Best Ways To Treat A Dry, Itchy Scalp

The Best Ways To Treat A Dry, Itchy Scalp

When you find yourself with an itchy or dry scalp, it can be difficult to think about anything else. It’s annoying, uncomfortable, and it can be tricky to know the best way to treat it. A dry or itchy scalp can often be the result of your scalp's natural moisture balance being disturbed. A range of external factors can be to blame for this, including soap, detergent, stress, and changes in the weather, all of which can cause dry eczema patches to form on your scalp. 

To help you get rid of an itchy scalp, we round up our best hair care tips including our best shampoos for itchy scalps and conditioners specially designed to soothe a dry scalp. These easy hair care tips will have your scalp feeling fresh and healthy in no time!

Top 5 causes for an itchy scalp

Whether you are suffering from a dry, flakey or itchy scalp, it is important to understand how these scalp conditions are different. While they’re often related to one another, it helps to identify what the cause is in order to effectively find scalp relief for the condition affecting you. Here are some different causes that could be irritating your scalp:

1. Dandruff

Dandruff refers to the dead skin cells that flake off of your scalp. They appear around your scalp and in your hair as white flakes. This typically occurs when your scalp is irritated, or if you are suffering from a skin condition like seborrheic dermatitis. Say goodbye to dandruff with this OC Naturals ultimate hair care guide on how to fight dandruff. 

2. Dry scalp condition

Dry scalp is what occurs when a scalp lacks oil and moisture. The oils on your scalp help to condition both your hair and skin, but when a scalp becomes too dry, the dry skin tends to flake off, can become itchy and, in many cases, can then cause dandruff.

3. Cold weather

Just as the winter air dries your hands and lips, it also can dry out your scalp. When the scalp becomes dry, patches of dry skin can form which can quickly become itchy and possibly flakey. 

4. Reaction to products

Take a look at the hair products you are using. Many products like gel, hairspray, shampoo and conditioners can contain irritating ingredients that can lead to an inflamed, itchy scalp. 

5. Under-washing or over-washing

While over-washing your hair can strip your hair of its moisture and cause your scalp and your locks to dry out, under-washing your hair can also cause increased oil production. In some cases, this can irritate your scalp and cause flaking or dandruff.

How to get rid of an itchy scalp

Sometimes, something as simple as switching out your hair care products or staying hydrated can help prevent a dry, itchy scalp. Medical conditions like eczema or psoriasis can also be the cause, so it’s always best to check with a healthcare practitioner if you’re unsure. 

Here are some OC Naturals solutions for at-home treatment you can try to soothe your dry scalp.

1. Use a gentle shampoo and a nourishing conditioner

Try to choose products that contain soothing plant-based ingredients such as Aloe Vera that are gentle on your scalp and less likely to cause irritation. The OC Naturals Deep Nourishing Shampoo & Conditioner is a great shampoo for itchy scalps. Enriched with nourishing ingredients including Cocoa Seed Butter, Argan Oil and Olive Leaf Extract, it helps restore moisture to dry hair and scalps, helping to both relieve and prevent any itching or flaking. 

2. Treat dandruff directly

If you suspect you have dandruff, select a shampoo specifically designed to treat it like OC Naturals’ Anti-Dandruff Conditioning Shampoo. This shampoo contains Pyrithione Zinc which not only helps get rid of dry flakes on your scalp but also prevents them from returning. Ingredients such as Chamomile Flower, Wheat Germ and Rosehip Oil work to soothe and nourish your hair and scalp, leaving it hydrated and flake-free.

3. Try a balancing shampoo 

We already know that over-washing your hair can create further oil production, irritate your scalp and cause added dryness. Try using a balanced shampoo like the OC Naturals Normal Balance Shampoo & Conditioner 2-3 times a week. Made from nourishing naturally-derived ingredients such as Bitter Orange Extract, Avocado Oil, Ginseng Root and Wheat Protein, it will cleanse and moisturise your hair and scalp, without weighing it down.

Say hello to healthy hair

Dry and itchy scalps are annoying but can be easy to treat. Many cases of dry scalp respond well to a simple change in your routine, and with the right hair care products you can certainly help speed up the process.

For the best itchy scalp shampoo, look no further than OC Naturals. Our full range of hair care products are carefully created to give you happy, healthier hair. Discover your nearest OC Naturals stockist today!