
It’s usually around the time of a weather change when the dry scalp comes calling. As we shift gears into the summer, there is a tendency for scalps to dry out and leave you itching. This is where a dry scalp treatment at home can be your saviour.
What causes dry scalp?
The scalp secretes a natural oil that is supposed to build a hydrating and protective layer on your skin. It is an essential function of the body, one intended to keep you safe. But in certain situations, your skin might be unable to retain that oil or might even produce less oil. That’s when you get a dry flaky scalp.
Some of these reasons are:
- Allergic reactions
- Excessive washing
- Hair colour chemicals
- Changes in the weather
- Hormonal disruptions
- Medical conditions
- Styling products with alcohol
- Heat styling
People might want to use a dandruff shampoo for women, thinking that dandruff and dry scalp are the same. They both might shed flakes of dead skin cells but have different causes. Dandruff is usually associated with excessive oil secretion, while a dry scalp is completely the opposite. So, if you’re using a dandruff shampoo for women, make sure it has the right ingredients.
What are the different dry scalp home remedies?
It’s pretty straight forward once you know the cause of your dry scalp. Find the right moisturising dry scalp treatment and you should solve the problem. However, always conduct a patch test before using, or visit a dermatologist.
Coconut oil
This is a great natural moisturiser that can hydrate your scalp and soothe any itching. It also contains anti-inflammatory properties for added benefit. Apply it directly onto your scalp and leave overnight. You can also create a hair mask with a wide range of ingredients.
Aloe Vera
This is a cooling gel which has earned its credibility as a hydrating ingredient. Applying aloe vera gel to your scalp can moisturise and condition, while potentially regulating oil levels. You can apply it directly and wash it off after 30 minutes. Don’t overdo it, as it can also disrupt your oil levels.
Avocado
Take it off your breakfast plate and put it onto your head. Avocados contain healthy fats and vitamins that can add nourishment to your scalp. This is an effective dry scalp treatment, but always check if there is any reaction. Use avocado oil or mash avocados into a paste. Create hair masks with coconut oil, bananas, or aloe vera.
Honey
You can look at the thick consistency of honey and believe that it would help lock in the moisture on your scalp. Honey has shown to be effective in soothing your itchy dry scalp and is a natural humectant. Mix it with warm water and apply it to your scalp for about 20-30 minutes. Ensure that you wash with a shampoo after.
Tea tree oil
An effective anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory oil, you might even find them in a dandruff shampoo for women. This oil can help relieve your dry scalp symptoms when used with carrier oils. Make sure not to use this directly as it can end up causing more damage.
Bananas
Packed with minerals and vitamins, bananas contain hydrating and anti-microbial properties. This can heal your flaky and dry scalp, while providing much needed moisture. Mash bananas and make a paste of it with eggs, curd or honey. Apply for 20 minutes and wash thoroughly.
A dry scalp treatment at home can be an easy and accessible method in helping you deal with your troubles. But it’s also recommended that you shampoo and condition your hair adequately to maintain a healthy ecosystem. You can try products like Head and Shoulders 2 in 1 Cool Menthol, which deep cleanses your scalp while providing hydration to dry hair strands.