5 Tips to Treat Dry/Itchy Scalp
Do you experience the occasional dry and itchy scalp that is aggregated in the winter or well any time of the year? What are some of the things you can do to help identify what could be the cause, how to treat and when to talk to the doctor.
In fact there are 2 reasons our scalp can get flaky. One is dandruff which can be caused by fungal or scalp infections and need to be treated by a dermatologist. The other is dry scalp which occurs when your scalp does not produce enough natural oils or hold the oils you do produce.
The winter is especially hard on those with dry scalp and that is usually when I get the most complaints form clients. As someone who also suffers from dry scalp I can tell you it is annoying. But there are ways to combat it.
1 Condition the scalp
I know...I know the rule of thumb is to shampoo the scalp and condition the ends. But when you are dry as a crocodile (my whole body is often) then you need to add that conditioner to your scalp. Think of your scalp as an extenuation of your face. If your face is dry then I am pretty sure your scalp will be as well. We lather so many potions and lotions on our face but then we wonder why our scalp is angry. So be a doll and just put that conditioner on your scalp as well and give it a good massage. Then using a wet brush pull the conditioner down through the ends.
2 Exfoliation
I can’t say just how important this is for all hair types but especially for those with dry skin..you must exfoliate your scalp. Our hair makes it a bit more challenging to get to. But there are products to make it a breeze. Any professional shampoo in its basic form will help to remove buildup. But a few times a month a clarifying & detoxifying shampoo like Maxi.Wash helps. Also the Scalp.Spa duo is the perfect facial for your scalp. A boars head brush will also be helpful in loosing up any dry skin. Simply use the brush nightly and especially right before washing. And last but certainly not least...use a silicone scalp massager while shampooing to give your scalp a great massage.
3 Skip a few days of washing
Simply letting your natural oils do their job is important. If your a daily washer and you have dry hair and scalp this is imperative. Just because you set foot in the shower does not mean your hair needs washing. If you like to wet style on the daily just wet it slightly and add some conditioner and rinse.
4 Use cooler water
Lastly, do not use hot water while shampooing. Hot water will aid in drying out the skin and hair. And for added shine add a cool rinse.
5. Satin or Silk Pillowcase
I can not preach it high enough from the mountains. Ditch your cotton pillowcases and use silk/satin. Cotton absorbs your skin and hairs natural oils and girls we also know that can play a roll with wrinkles (wink wink) so switch today!
If you have tried these things and your scalp is not improved it is time to see your doctor. But I promise just by adding a few of these suggestions will bring marked improvement to your hair and scalp.
