DIY Itchy Scalp & Dandruff Treatments
Do you have an itchy scalp? If you find yourself constantly scratching your head, here are some natural tips to treat an itchy scalp. The most common cause of an itchy and flaky scalp is weather and temperature changes, dehydration or exposure to UV rays. An itchy scalp can also be a symptom of skin conditions such as scabies, psoriasis or simple dandruff. There are some other factors such as lice or nits which can also cause an itchy scalp.
In this post we’ll discuss the most common cause of an itchy scalp and how to treat it naturally at home.
The annoying tiny white flakes that fall off on our shoulders are due to dandruff. Dandruff is a common cause of itchiness yet its harmless for your hair or scalp. Dandruff is not only caused by dry scalp but it’s caused by a condition called seborrheic dermatitis. It results in scaly, irritated, oily skin and flakes.
How to treat dandruff
Brush your hair to increase blood circulation to the scalp. This helps in the shedding of skin cells and renewing the cells, thus reducing the risk of dandruff.
Are you using products that contain irritants for the scalp? Check the products you’re using for styling or washing your hair if they contain any ingredient such as artificial fragrances or ammonium lauryl sulfate. For mild dandruff, use an over the counter shampoo containing selenium, coal tar, salicylic acid or zinc pyrithione. Drugstore Shampoos like the Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo and Maple Holistics Sage Shampoo for Anti Dandruff with Jojoba, Argan, and Organic Tea Tree Oil contain ingredients that treat dandruff with regular use.
Washing your hair too often? Shampooing your hair too often strips the hair and scalp from its natural essential oils which results in a dry scalp and increased oil production. Use a dry shampoo to soak up the excess oil instead of washing.
DIY anti-dandruff treatments
Add baking soda to your shampoo
Baking soda is not just a baking essential but also used for its beauty benefits. Its antiseptic properties make it ideal for treating fungal and yeast growth. Baking soda helps balance the pH level of the scalp and excess oils. It works like an exfoliator for the scalp and removes dead skin cells.
Oil Massage your scalp once a week
Our blood carries nutrients in our body so massaging your scalp increases blood circulation that helps with skin cell renewal. It increases hair growth and prevents flakes and dryness. Oils such as jojoba oil, almond oil, and olive oil contain vitamin E that boost blood circulation. You can combine these oils together or add a few drops of essential oils like tea tree or rosemary oil in a small bowl. Apply it to the scalp and the length of your hair. Leave it overnight or at least 45 minutes. Shampoo your hair to remove any oil residue.
Don’t wash your hair with hot water
Hot showers may be relaxing for your body but damaging to the hair. Your hair shaft and the skin on your skin is delicate if you suffer from a dry and itchy scalp, hot water can have a negative impact on your hair. Use moderate warm water to wash your hair and give a final rinse with cold water to seal the hair shaft. This increases shine and boost blood circulation in the scalp.
Apple cider fingers hair rinse
Apple cider vinegar has pH balancing and anti-inflammatory, and astringent properties that help with bacteria and infections. ACV contains amino, acetic, citric, and malic acid that makes it difficult for dandruff causing bacteria to grow. To use apple cider vinegar on your scalp, dilute 2 tbsp of ACV in a cup of water and use it as a rinse after you wash your hair.
Lemon juice scalp massage
Just like apple cider vinegar, the acidic nature of lemon juice is perfect for treating an itchy and flaky scalp. Simply, take the juice of one lemon and massage it on your scalp before you shampoo your hair. Leave it on for 5-10 minutes then wash. You can also mix lemon juice in olive oil or coconut oil and massage on your scalp. Leave it for 30-45 then shampoo.
Tea Tree oil massage
Tea tree oil is a powerful essential oil used for treating acne, bacterial and fungal growth on the skin. Mix 3-4 drops of tea tree oil in any oil like olive, almond or coconut. Massage it well into your scalp and then rinse thoroughly with shampoo. The tree oil has a cooling and a slight tingling effect on the skin, so it’s completely normal if you experience it.
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