One of the most aggravating skin conditions is having an itchy scalp. Different people experience the illness in different ways; for some, it seems like flakiness, while for others, it looks like dry skin. Regardless of how an itchy scalp manifests itself, we’re sure that everyone can agree that it stinks to be awake in the middle of the night thinking, “Why is my scalp so itchy?”
Nevertheless, even if it could appear out of the blue, itching frequently occurs more frequently in the winter. Your scalp is prone to dryness because, like your face or body, it is classified as skin. However, dryness is not the only reason why your scalp itches. Certain individuals have a genetic or environmental predisposition to the illness, and certain scalp problems can make itchy scalp worse.
Although it’s quite tempting to attempt treating your itchy scalp on your own, it’s crucial to identify the underlying cause of the problem first. An expert describes potential conditions and therapies to take into consideration in order to help you get to the root (heh) of your itchy scalp issues.
Possible Reasons for Itchy Scalp
An itchy scalp can result from a number of scalp disorders, but Emmanuel lists five that are particularly prevalent. “Dandruff, dry scalp, contact dermatitis, psoriasis, and seborrhoeic dermatitis are all fairly common conditions that can cause itchy scalp,” according to her. Some of them, like psoriasis and seborrhoeic dermatitis, may be influenced by genetics, while others, like contact dermatitis, may be influenced by certain substances in cosmetics. Paraphenylenediamine (PPD) found in hair colourants, scents, surfactants, nickel, wig adhesives, gluten, and some preservatives like parabens are some of these components.”
Dry scalp and dandruff are not genetic, but Emmanuel says these two issues in particular can be related to ingredients found in cosmetics. “They also show up when the normal pH of the scalp, which is a 4.5 to 5.5, becomes alkaline, which is when the pH is seven or higher,” she says. “The alkaline environment weakens the scalp’s barrier function, making it easy for fungi and bacteria to thrive.”
Difference Between Dry and Itchy Scalp
If you’ve ever had an itchy scalp, you’ve probably thought if it’s because your skin is dry, but those two symptoms are not the same. “A dry scalp is visible as small flakes or dry skin — it can show up like dry skin on your body,” adds Emmanuel. “Your scalp may look white and feel irritated or tight.” One sign of a dry scalp is an itchy scalp. “Itchy scalps are not isolated to dry scalp alone and can show up with flaking, redness, pimples, and hair loss,” according to her.
How to Treat an Itchy Scalp
Fortunately, itchy scalps can be treated; in fact, some of them can be done at home.
Make use of goods that include mild yet potent chemicals.
“The V&Co. Beauty Curly Hair Shampoo ($8) and Conditioner ($8) can help replenish hydration and moisture,” explains Emmanuel. “This formula’s jojoba oil is essential for relieving dry or itchy scalps. It imitates the sebum that is naturally released by the sebaceous glands on the scalp. Your scalp will get more hydration and hydration from this shampoo. Your hair is left incredibly soft and your curls won’t be weighed down by the conditioner.”
- Use scalp treatments prior to shampooing
Emmanuel says a wonderful way to alleviate scalp irritation is to dilute essential oils with a carrier like avocado or coconut oil. “I recommend calming oils like lavender, chamomile, and geranium, mixed into aloe vera gel or jojoba oil,” according to her. “Mix two ounces of the carrier oil or aloe vera gel with one to two drops of the essential oil, then massage the mixture into your scalp for five minutes before you shampoo your hair.” - Regularly use shampoo – Regular shampooing can help lessen itchy scalp even if it is not a cure for itchy scalp. Products that have a hold or heavy oils, such as gels, foams, hair sprays, and styling products, might aggravate an itchy scalp. Scalp irritation can be lessened or eliminated by shampooing your hair one to two times per week after using these products.
- Go to a professional – Certain cases of itchy scalp could call for products intended for medicinal use. “Topical steroids are a treatment option, but they must be prescribed by a dermatologist or other doctor,” explains Emmanuel. “They do help reduce inflammation, which in turn helps reduce itchy scalp altogether.”
It’s okay to have an itchy scalp, but depending on how bad it is, you might want to consult a doctor to talk about your options for treatment. That being said, you must follow a recommended scalp-care regimen because serious scalp diseases can never be cured—only managed.