How to Deal with an Itchy Scalp Using Natural Remedies

Are you suffering from a dry, itchy scalp? It does not take very long for a dry or itchy scalp to leave you feeling irritated. When you constantly scratch your head, you are likely to end up with flakes on your shoulders and you may even end up damaging your hair.

To prevent these problems, you do not need to rely on store-bought medications, hair treatments, or specially medicated shampoos. These items are often over-priced and contain ingredients that you have probably never heard of. The safer, more affordable solution for a dry or itchy scalp is to use natural remedies.

Why Do You Have a Dry and Itchy Scalp?

The first step in dealing with a dry or itchy scalp is to try and determine what is causing the problem. Generally speaking, it is difficult to cure a problem if you do not know what is causing it. Here are some of the most common causes of dry and itchy scalps:

 Fungal Infections

Malassezia is a yeast-like fungus that appears along the scalp. Most adults have at least some of this fungus on their scalp, but when you have an abundance of this fungus causing an infection, you may end up with a dry and itchy scalp. You may notice white, flaky skin cells falling from your hair.

For most people, the main reason that this fungus can become a problem is due to a pH imbalance. By using remedies that will correct a pH imbalance, you can eliminate this problem.

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a fairly common skin condition that causes itchiness and irritation all over your body, including your scalp. When the problem is concentrated around your scalp, you will likely notice dandruff. More often than not, the cause of seborrheic dermatitis is poor hair care.

Sensitivity to Hair Care Products

Some people are sensitive to specific hair care products. You may experience a negative reaction to certain chemicals in the shampoos or conditioners that you use. When this occurs, you could end up with dermatitis or other scalp conditions.

Hair Care Habits

If you repeatedly use hair care products, such as relaxers, dyes, and other harsh treatments, you may end up eliminating moisture from your scalp. Excessive blow-drying can also dry out your scalp.

Poor Diet

You need certain vitamins and minerals in order to keep your hair, and the rest of your body, healthy. If your diet does not contain an adequate amount of B vitamins, zinc, and essential fatty acids, you may end up with a dry scalp or excessive oil in your hair.

Scalp Psoriasis

Scalp psoriasis is an auto-immune disease that causes an abundance of skin cells to grow. These skin cells can appear anywhere on your body, including your scalp. These extra skin cells can use up the moisture on your scalp, causing dryness and irritation.

Eczema

Eczema, like psoriasis, is another medical condition that can lead to irritated skin. Both conditions can be affected by stress and cause your scalp to dry out.

Those are just a few of the possible causes of your dry or itchy scalp. Carefully think about these causes and whether any of them may apply to your situation. Next, look over these simple home remedies and pick and option that may be able to help you deal with your itchy scalp.

Use Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe Vera can be used to treat a wide variety of skin problems, including a dry scalp. It is a natural moisturizer and provides a healthy way to keep your skin hydrated. You can gather your own Aloe Vera gel, by crushing fresh Aloe Vera leaves, or you can purchase an organic Aloe Vera gel from a health food store.

Apply a small amount of Aloe Vera gel directly to your scalp and massage into place. Leave the gel in your hair for several minutes before rinsing with a mild shampoo.

Raw Honey

Raw honey is a super food that contains amazing health benefits, including the ability to treat an itchy scalp. According to one scientific study, raw honey can help treat seborrheic dermatitis.

If you would like to try using raw honey to treat your dry scalp, dilute the honey by combining two tablespoons with several drops of water. Apply the mixture to your scalp and massage for several minutes. Let the mixture sit in your hair for three hours and then rinse thoroughly with warm water.

Essential Oils

There are numerous essential oils that can help kill bacteria or fungus that may be the cause of your itchy scalp. There are dozens of different essential oils that you could use, but this one is perhaps the most beneficial:

Combine several drops of tea tree oil with one tablespoon of peppermint oil. After mixing these two oils, add one tablespoon of coconut oil. Massage the mixture into your scalp and leave in place for at least twenty minutes. Rinse with room-temperature water and allow your hair to dry naturally.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is used in many different natural remedies, including treatments for relieving itchy scalps. To use baking soda on your scalp, mix one tablespoon of baking soda with one tablespoon of coconut oil to create a paste.

Massage the paste into your scalp and leave for twenty minutes. Rinse the paste from your hair, using warm water, and allow your hair to dry naturally. This is treatment could help correct a pH imbalance, especially if you follow it up by conditioning your hair with several tablespoons of apple cider vinegar.

Eat More Beneficial Foods

Remember, your diet can play a big part in the health of your hair and scalp. By eating certain foods, you can ensure you do not suffer from a nutrient deficiency. Try to eat more foods that contain zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, and vitamin B.

Eggs, carrots, papaya, and sweet potatoes are all great sources of vitamin A. For more vitamin B, eat whole grains and dark, leafy vegetables. If you need more omega-3 fatty acids, try to eat more salmon, flax seeds, and chia seeds. Seafood, nuts, and spinach are all good sources of zinc.

Brush Your Hair

The final home remedy is the easiest. You need to brush your hair daily to help improve blood circulation, remove dead skin cells, and evenly spread natural oils throughout your hair. Make sure you are using a brush that is suitable for your hair. If your hair is very fine, you will want a soft brush. For people with thicker hair, you may want to use a wide-bristled comb.

Avoid Harmful Hair Products

Along with the remedies provided, you may also want to avoid using industrial hair products, synthetic hair dyes, and any other products that could potentially damage your hair or dry out your scalp.

Stick to natural remedies. This way, you know exactly what you are putting on your head and why it should work. Start treating your itchy scalp by trying to determine what is causing the problem. From there, use one of the natural remedies provided to finally get rid of the irritation, so you can stop itching your scalp.