An itchy scalp! Oops. Cause for concern as well as a reason for social embarrassment. Instead of anti-dandruff shampoos, have you tried some home remedies?
A dry scalp can be an absolute social nightmare. If you ignore it (if you can, that is), it can actually worsen, leading to other complications. Of course, markets shelves are overflowing with ready made products that shout and scream for your attention. They are, however, chemicals after all. Looking for solutions at home is a much safer and better option.
But before we tell you how to treat dry scalp, learn the underlying causes of a dry scalp. Extensive use of chemical products, shampoos and conditioners, long-term exposure to extreme temperatures (working in an air-conditioned office or spending long hours in the sun), or even over-styling your hair can lead to scalp dryness. Yes, your lifestyle could be responsible for a dry and itchy scalp.
Fret not. If you’re looking for dry scalp home remedies, look no further. We’ve put together the easiest and the most common dry scalp treatments that you can do at home for you right here.
Home remedies to get rid of dry & itchy scalp using natural ingredients:
1. An oil massage to restore the natural scalp moisture
Raid your kitchen to see what oil you have. You can massage slightly warmed tea tree, coconut, olive, jojoba or sesame oil into your dry scalp. Let it sit there for 15-20 minutes and then rinse it off thoroughly.
Just remember to dilute tea tree oil before applying it to your scalp.
2. Baking soda to reduce dandruff-causing fungi
Baking soda is one of the most easily available kitchen ingredients. Make a paste with a little water and massage it into your scalp. You can also massage in some olive oil before applying the paste. Rinse off the paste after 10 to 15 minutes with your regular shampoo.
3. Lemon juice and honey to cleanse the scalp
The antibacterial properties of honey and the antiseptic nature of lemon combine to form this cleansing dry scalp treatment. Apply the blend and leave it on for 10-15 minutes before washing off. Don’t use lemon if you have broken or irritated skin as it may sting or worsen the problem.
4. Bananas and avocado to treat and condition
Bananas are a multi-use goodie from nature. Not only will they ease the itching but also condition your hair. Mash two bananas and mix them well with a ripe avocado. Massage this mixture onto your scalp and leave it for half an hour. Rinse it off with a mild shampoo.
5. Aloe Vera for natural soothing
Natural aloe vera gel is an excellent moisturising agent that also soothes a dry and itchy scalp. As far as possible, try to get fresh aloe gel. If you can’t, purchase the readymade gel easily available in the market. Massage it into your scalp gently with your fingers. Wash it off with a mild shampoo after 10-15 minutes.
Prevention is always better than cure. Follow these 3 tips to avoid a dry & itchy scalp problems:
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or products on your hair.
- Avoid over-styling your hair using curlers or blowers.
- Eat a well-balanced diet that includes lean protein, leafy vegetables, fruits, whole grains, salmon, walnuts, flaxseed, and spinach.