An itchy scalp can be an irritating and uncomfortable issue, often signalling underlying problems such as dry scalp or dandruff. It can be annoying and painful to have one the day after washing your hair. Understanding the causes and distinguishing between them is the first step towards effective treatment. Here, we’ll explore the causes of itchy scalp and delve into natural, home remedies that can provide relief and promote scalp health.
ALSO READ: Frizz, Split Ends- 6 Hair Problems During Summers And How To Prevent Them
Causes Of Itchy Scalp:
Dr Geetika Srivastava, Dermatologist, and Founder of Influennz Skin and Hair Clinic, Delhi listed some common causes of having an itchy scalp:
- Dry Scalp: Often leads to intense itching immediately after shampooing, which can be alleviated with proper oiling.
- Dandruff: Typically results in itching 2-3 days post shampooing as oil buildup activates fungus growth. Oiling can worsen the itching because the fungus responsible for dandruff, Malassezia, thrives on oils.
An itchy scalp can also be a result of some skin issues. Dr Geetika Srivastava listed the following skin problems that can cause your scalp to itch:
- Scalp Psoriasis: An autoimmune condition causing red, scaly patches.
- Eczema: A condition leading to inflamed, itchy, and cracked skin.
- Boils: Painful, pus-filled lumps resulting from bacterial infections.
- Tinea Capitis: Fungal infection causing ring-like patches.
- Lice Infestation: Tiny insects causing intense itching.
- Irritant Contact Dermatitis: Reaction to products causing scalp irritation.
One of the most common causes of an irritated scalp after washing is leftover shampoo or conditioner. These products may leave behind residues that irritate the scalp if they are not completely washed away.
To avoid this, Deepali Bansal, CEO and Founder, Suroskie suggested to select products free of the following common irritants:
- Synthetic scents and phthalates
- Amino Acids
- Adhesives
- Parabens
- Formaldehyde
Home Remedies For Dry Scalp:
The goal of home remedies for dry scalp is to nourish, moisturize, and condition the hair, minimizing itching and restoring hydration. Dr Geetika Srivastava mentioned some home remedies to manage dry scalp:
Remedy 1: Banana Avocado Mask
Ingredients:
- 1 banana
- 1 avocado
Instructions:
- Mash the banana and avocado together to form a smooth paste.
- Apply the mask to your scalp and hair.
- Leave it on for 30 to 60 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
Benefits:
- Bananas: Rich in potassium and vitamins, they nourish the scalp.
- Avocado: Packed with healthy fats, it deeply conditions and hydrates the scalp.
Frequency: Once a week
Remedy 2: Curd with Eggs
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of curd
- 2 egg yolks
Instructions:
- Mix curd and egg yolks until well blended.
- Apply the mixture to your scalp and hair.
- Leave it on for 30 to 60 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
Benefits:
- Curd: Contains milk fats, lactic acid, vitamin A, and probiotics, promoting a healthy scalp microbiome and preventing bacterial infections. Lactic acid has anti-inflammatory and hemolytic properties.
- Egg Yolks: Rich in fats and protein, they provide intense conditioning and nourishment.
Frequency: Once a week
Home Remedies For Dandruff
The primary aim of dandruff remedies is to prevent oil buildup on the scalp, thereby inhibiting the growth of Malassezia fungus. Suggesting some home remedies, Dr Geetika Srivastava mentioned the following:
Remedy 1: Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse
Ingredients:
- 1 part apple cider vinegar
- 1 part water
Instructions:
- Mix apple cider vinegar with water.
- Rinse your entire scalp and hair with this mixture.
- Leave it on for 15 minutes.
- Wash thoroughly with normal water, ensuring no residue is left as it can irritate the scalp.
Benefits:
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Possesses anti-inflammatory and sebolytic properties, helping to control dandruff.
Frequency: Once a week
Remedy 2: Fenugreek and Curry Leaves Paste
Ingredients:
- 2 tsp fenugreek seeds
- Handful of curry leaves
Instructions:
- Soak fenugreek seeds and curry leaves overnight.
- Blend them into a smooth paste.
- Apply the paste to your scalp and hair.
- Leave it on for 1-2 hours.
- Rinse thoroughly with water.
Benefits:
- Fenugreek: Contains nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, iron, protein, and lecithin, which nourish the scalp and hair.
- Curry Leaves: Rich in antioxidants such as vitamins C, E, and A, and folic acid, they help treat scalp infections and condition the hair.
Frequency: Once a week
How Often To Oil And Shampoo?
You can balance your scalp and stop itching by paying attention to your hair care regimen and implementing the recommended tips. Here are some tips suggested by Deepali Bansal as to how often should one shampoo and oil their hair.
- Dry scalp: Shampoo less frequently and use hydrating oils.
- Oily scalp: Use milder oils and shampoo more often.
- Normal scalp: Maintain a balanced routine with occasional oiling.
Scalp Care Tips For Monsoon:
The damaging impact of the rains on our hair is a cause of serious concern for all of us. Whether you have straight, wavy, curly, or coily hair, paying extra attention to your hair’s health in rainy weather is a must. So if like many, you too are worried about the health of your follicles then following hair care tips in monsoon, here are some tips shared by Devji Hathiyani, Co-founder, Dr Rashel.
a) Scalp Health: Keeping the scalp clean and healthy goes a long way in fighting buildup, split ends, and hair loss. While there are many ways to take care of the scalp, the easiest one is to wash your hair with keratin shampoo and conditioner at least twice or thrice a week. Regular application of shampoo also keeps the shine of hair intact by offering necessary nourishment to the scalp. That being said, the key to achieving desired results here is to use mild and gentle hair care products which are made up of natural and organic ingredients.
b) Balanced Diet: While shampoo and conditioner play an important role in external cleansing, a nutritious diet helps boost the health of hair follicles from the inside. Taking a well-balanced diet with the right amount of macro- and micronutrients is essential to offer nourishment to hair strands from the outside. In addition to primary sources of energy such as protein, carbs, and fats, keeping a close tab on the intake of important minerals and vitamins will also help with the health of your hair.