Dealing with dry scalp can be a major struggle and finding remedies for this issue can be even more frustrating. Dry scalp is caused by a number of things; it occurs when your scalp fails to produce enough oils to maintain moisture, which causes your skin to flake and create dandruff.
Dry scalp can also be caused by sweat build up on the scalp, which clogs the pores from creating enough natural sebum (oil). If you maintain an active lifestyle with frequent exercise, you should wash your hair more frequently to avoid build up. Wearing straight hairstyles more often can also be a culprit of dry scalp because oil is moving down the hair shaft regularly, causing the scalp to dry out.
If you're suffering from dry scalp, here are 10 tips to help you regain moisture:
1. Avoid Harsh Soaps
Harsh soaps can damage and dry out your scalp. Try using soaps and shampoos with natural ingredients. Also, avoid products with alcohol because they'll dry out your scalp and hair.
2. Medicated Shampoos and Conditioners
If you are experiencing extremely dry scalp or dandruff, medicated shampoos and conditioners are able to soothe the itching and dryness. These products specifically target areas of the scalp that are lacking moisture.
3. Cleanse Your Scalp
A clean scalp is a happy scalp. Be sure to avoid excessive product and sweat buildup. Regularly shampooing and conditioning removes dirt and bacteria and will not dry out the scalp and hair. Utilizing antibacterial oils such as tea tree and peppermint will help kill bacteria and remove dirt between washes.
4. Drink More Water
A lack of water in your body can cause dry scalp. Your hair, skin, and nails are the first to show signs that something is wrong (or good) internally. Make a conscious effort to drink the recommended eight glasses of water daily to ensure that your scalp is getting the water it needs to function properly. Consuming foods that contain lots of water, such as watermelons and cucumbers, is a great way to get your daily water intake.
5. Vitamins
Taking daily vitamins will also aid your scalp in producing the oils and moisture it needs. Vitamin A, fish oil, biotin, and zinc are a few vitamins that help the overall health of your scalp and body. Try to find a multivitamin that will ensure you get everything you need for beautiful and healthy skin.
6. Winter Worries
Those that live in cooler climates or experience winter temperatures, will notice an increase in the dryness of their scalp. The winter weather has drier air that sucks moisture from your hair and scalp. Try to keep your head covered with a scarf or hat to protect it from the harsh temperatures and winds.
7. Massages
We all love a good massage, and so does your scalp! Blood circulation throughout your scalp allows it to get vital nutrients and produce the necessary oils to keep your scalp moisturized. Add a dime size of oil (coconut or olive) to the tips of your fingers. Warm the oil between your hands and began to massage your scalp in a circular motion. The oil will help to add moisture to your dry scalp, and the massage will increase the blood flow.
8. Deep Conditioner and Hot Oil
Treating your scalp to deep conditioning and hot oil treatment can help to drastically reduce the dryness of the scalp. Try deep conditioners that have protein and keratin, which will help in adding nutrients to your scalp. Add hot oil to your scalp (not too hot), place a plastic cap over your hair and then sit under a hooded dryer, this will help the oils to better seep into the hair shaft and moisturize the scalp. These treatments will decrease the dry skin and any flakes or dandruff that may be present.
9. Humectants
A humectant is an ingredient that seals in moisture. By increasing the amount of humectants in your hair styling routine, the water and moisture you put on your scalp will be be locked in. Honey is a natural humectant that can be added to your deep conditioner and washed out. Also, oils such as coconut are known for their humectant properties.
10. Hard Water
Water is described as “hard” when it is contaminated with minerals and salts that can clog your scalp’s pores and suck the moisture out of your skin. It may be the last thing you think could cause damage to your hair, but water’s properties can affect your scalp’s health. Consider investing in a water purifying system or make sure to get your water tested for any unnecessary products. Keep in mind the temperature of your water, hot or warm water opens the pores of your scalp and cold water closes or tightens the pores. Add in your moisture agents after you wash with warm water and make sure to seal that moisture with cool water.
Now that you know where to begin to improve the health of your scalp, you should be well on your way to a happy, healthy scalp. Dry scalp is a symptom of dehydration in the body, so be mindful of your water intake and make sure that you're drinking water on a daily basis.
If you're interested in learning more about products that may be beneficial for scalp care, or for your hair in general, download the Myavana app for additional tips and guidance.
1 comment
Very well explained. This is educative. I read one blog on Dandruff and dry scalp on iahas.com where they mostly focus on the natural remedies to deal with Dandruff. But this one is unique where I have gotten some insights. I will surely add your blog to my list as well.