How to Treat Dry Scalp: 7 Home Remedies to Say Goodbye to Itchy Scalp

Dry scalp can cause an itchy head that is very uncomfortable. But luckily, there are many ways to treat it. Here's how to treat dry scalp at home using some natural remedies that you probably already have at home:

1. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is one of the most popular natural treatments for dry scalp. According to Verywell Health, research has shown that this type of oil has various benefits for your head skin. It helps to moisturize the skin, reduce dandruff, and kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi. To use it, warm a small amount of coconut oil in your hands. Then, massage it gently into your scalp. Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes before washing your hair with a gentle shampoo.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar can help remove dead skin cells from your scalp. It also kills bacteria and reduces inflammation. However, you must mix it with water before using it. Start with 1 to 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in 1 cup of water. Apply this mixture to your scalp after shampooing. Let it sit for five minutes, then rinse it out with clean water.

3. Aloe Vera Gel

It's well known that aloe vera is good for skin and hair, and it works well on dry scalp too. Healthline says that aloe vera have anti-inflammatory properties and help to Apply fresh aloe vera gel directly to your scalp and leave it for 20 minutes. Then wash it out with shampoo. Aloe vera helps calm itchiness and adds moisture back to your scalp. This makes your scalp feel refreshed and comfortable.

4. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil has strong antibacterial and antifungal properties. It can help reduce flakiness and itchiness on your scalp. Because tea tree oil is very strong, you should not use it alone. Mix a few drops with a carrier oil like olive oil or jojoba oil. Massage this mixture into your scalp and leave it for 15 minutes before rinsing.

5. Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil is an excellent moisturizer for dry scalp, according to the same source. It also helps reduce inflammation on your skin. Massage 1 teaspoon of jojoba oil into your scalp. Leave it for at least 30 minutes before washing your hair. You can also mix a few drops into your regular conditioner for extra moisture.

6. Olive Oil

Olive oil provides deep hydration to your scalp. It is rich in nutrients that nourish your skin. Warm a small amount of olive oil and massage it into your scalp. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight if possible. Then wash it out with a gentle shampoo. This treatment helps eliminate dryness and makes your scalp feel soft.

7. Avocado

Avocado contains healthy fats and vitamins that moisturize your scalp. You can use either mashed avocado or avocado oil. If using mashed avocado, apply it directly to your scalp and leave it for 20 minutes. If using avocado oil, warm it slightly and massage it into your scalp. Cover your head with a shower cap and leave it overnight for best results.

Now you know how to treat dry scalp at home, you may be wondering why it happened in the first place. There are several things that can cause dry scalp, and here are some of them:

1. Cold or Dry Weather

One of the most common cause of dry scalp is the weather. As quoted from Cleveland Clinic, places with low humidity and areas located in cold climates can dry out the skin on your scalp.

2. Hot Water Showers

Taking long showers with very hot water can dry out your scalp. According to L'Oreal Paris, ot water strips away the natural oils that keep your scalp moisturized. This leaves your scalp feeling dry and itchy. Even though hot showers feel relaxing, they can harm your skin.

3. Harsh Hair Products

Some shampoos and styling products contain strong chemicals. These chemicals can remove the natural oils from your scalp. If your haircare products are too harsh, they may cause dryness and irritation. This is especially true if you wash your hair every day.

4. Dehydration

Not drinking enough water affects your whole body, including your scalp. When you are dehydrated, your skin cannot maintain proper moisture levels. This can lead to a dry, flaky scalp. Your body needs water to keep your skin healthy.

5. Skin Conditions

Some medical conditions can cause dry scalp. These include eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. If you have these conditions, your scalp may become dry, red, and irritated. In these cases, you may need to see a doctor for proper treatment.

6. Excessive Heat Styling

Using hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons too often can damage your scalp. The heat from these tools dries out your scalp and hair. This can make your dry scalp problem worse. Reducing heat styling can help your scalp recover its natural moisture.

Prevention is always better than treatment. Here are simple steps you can take to keep your scalp healthy and moisturized:

1. Use Lukewarm Water

Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water. This helps protect the natural oils on your scalp. Try to keep your showers short, around five minutes when possible. This simple change can make a big difference in preventing dry scalp.

2. Choose Gentle Hair Products

Select shampoos and conditioners that are gentle and moisturizing. Look for products that are sulfate-free and made for dry or sensitive scalp. Avoid products with harsh chemicals that can strip your scalp of moisture. Read the labels carefully before buying new hair products.

3. Moisturize Regularly

Just like you moisturize your face and body, your scalp needs moisture too. Use a leave-in scalp serum or oil to keep your scalp hydrated. Apply these products as directed to maintain a healthy moisture balance. This helps prevent dryness before it starts.

4. Drink Plenty of Water

Stay hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day. This helps keep your skin, including your scalp, moisturized from the inside. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water daily. Good hydration supports overall scalp health.

5. Limit Hair Washing

Washing your hair too often can remove natural oils from your scalp. Depending on your hair type, you may only need to wash your hair 2-3 times per week. This allows your scalp to maintain its natural oil balance. Find a washing schedule that works for your hair type.

6. Protect Your Scalp from Weather

Wear a hat or scarf when going out in cold, dry, or windy weather. This protects your scalp from harsh environmental conditions. In winter, use a humidifier at home to add moisture to the air. This helps prevent your scalp from drying out.

7. Reduce Heat Styling

Give your hair and scalp a break from hot tools. Try heatless hairstyles like braids, buns, or ponytails. When you must use heat styling tools, always apply a heat protectant product first. This creates a barrier between the heat and your scalp.

8. Eat Healthy Foods

Your diet affects your scalp health. Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids like fish, nuts, and seeds. These healthy fats help your skin produce natural oils. A balanced diet with plenty of vitamins supports healthy scalp function.