A Comprehensive Guide to Dry Scalp and its Treatment Options

Hair care is most of the time mistaken as a hygiene that takes care of the hair only. There is a wide array of treatments nowadays for healthy hair growth or hair maintenance. However, caring for the scalp, which is a part of the hair care regimen, is not as popular as these hair treatments are. We must remember that having a healthy scalp can foster healthy hair growth. If your scalp becomes dry, it affects your hair too. A dry scalp can be caused by several things and there are multiple ways to treat this if it is becoming a problem. This article explores the causes and symptoms of a dry scalp and offers several useful tips and home remedies.

What is a dry scalp?

Your scalp plays an important role in the overall health of your hair. Unfortunately, it’s one of the underrated health self-care practices. As the name suggests, a dry scalp occurs when there is not enough oil on the scalp causing it to be itchy. This could also lead to embarrassment sometimes, especially when itching becomes persistent.

A dry scalp can also be attributed to hair thinning and hair loss causes. Hence, taking care of your scalp is ultimately taking care of your hair.

What is the difference between dandruff and a dry scalp?

Exploring the subject of dandruff vs dry scalp should give you a better understanding of these two scalp conditions. The dandruff vs dry scalp descriptions below show how one is different from the other.

• Dandruff: This develops when there is too much oil on your scalp. It can also develop due to a certain fungus. Dandruff flakes are large and feel oily and can be either yellow or white.
• Dry scalp: This occurs when there isn’t enough moisture on your scalp. Dry scalp flakes are small and feel dry to the touch.

Symptoms of dry scalp

We don’t say that our scalp is dry until we see the obvious symptoms. In this section, we’re going to explore some signs that may tell you have a dry scalp.

• Flakes may come off your scalp. These flakes are very small and white.
• Your scalp may feel itchy.
• Dry and frizzy hair can also be a sign of a dry scalp.
• Roughness and cracking of the scalp become noticeable. Redness on your scalp is also a possible sign of a dry scalp.

Sores on scalp may be caused by an underlying factor that’s contributing to the dryness.

Additionally, some people experience itchy scalp and hair loss at the same time. When the scalp gets very dry, hair follicles become inflamed and could affect the makeup of your hair strands. This could potentially lead to breakage.

Possible causes of dry scalp

There are several reasons why you can develop a dry scalp. Your hair care practices can adversely affect the condition of both your hair and scalp. Overwashing your hair can strip off the natural oils and moisture on your scalp. In addition to this, some health conditions may cause a dry scalp to develop.

Here are some health conditions related to a dry scalp:

• Psoriasis: This skin condition develops into patches that look like a rash. The specific symptoms affect every person differently, but common manifestations are flaking and scaling. If psoriasis affects your scalp^[1], it can result in excessive dryness.

• Tinea capitis: Also called ringworm infection^[2], this condition causes a rash to develop that may appear silvery or reddish. Tinea capitis doesn’t necessarily involve any actual worms. It can develop on your scalp, as well as other areas of your body.

• Dandruff: If you have dandruff, it means you have excess oils or a fungal infection. Fungal infections contribute to dryness on your scalp.
• Actinic keratosis: Continuous sun exposure^[3] can also cause a scaly patch of skin on your scalp. It is best to wear a protective headgear if you need to stay under the sun for a long time.

Dry scalp prevention tips

There are several things you can do to prevent dry scalp. Let’s take a closer look at what you can do:

• Don’t wash your hair too often, as this can cause dryness on your scalp.
• Choosing the right shampoo is a game changer. Opt for one that has moisturizing ingredients.
• Wear a hat when you go outside.
• Apply oil to your scalp regularly.
• Select shampoos and other hair care products that are sulfate-free.

How can I fix my dry scalp naturally?

There are many ways in which you can prevent scalp dryness from developing. If you opt for chemically prepared products, choose those with gentle and or hypoallergenic ingredients.

On the other hand, there are natural products you can try for home remedies. These products can moisturize and nourish your scalp without the harsh effects. These products may be readily available in your kitchen pantry or your bathroom cupboard.

• Coconut oil: One of the best ways to treat a dry scalp is to use coconut oil. It’s one of the most natural ways to oil your hair. Coconut oil does not only condition your hair naturally but is also very beneficial to your scalp with its natural moisturizing properties
• Tea tree oil: a dry scalp can sometimes be caused by yeast. Tea tree oil has antimicrobial properties that target germs and microbes that can cause scalp dryness. Tea tree oil can also help to provide relief from itchiness which is a common discomfort if you have a dry scalp.
• Aloe vera: The extracts of this plant are known to have natural soothing properties. It can help to reduce itchiness and other dry scalp symptoms.
• Apple cider vinegar: Another natural remedy for dry scalp is apple cider vinegar. You can dilute this fermented juice with water and apply it to your scalp. The active compounds in apple cider vinegar help to kill microbes and reduce inflammation. It’s also great for exfoliating your scalp.
• Bananas: This may not be a very pleasant home remedy, but bananas can be a great way to moisturize your scalp naturally. Simply mush up a banana and apply it to your scalp. Leave it for a few minutes before rinsing off.
• Avocado: Avocados are known as superfoods and are very good for your health. The fatty acids in avocado help moisturize your scalp, reduce dryness, and also offer protection for your skin.

The items above are just a few natural home remedies for addressing dryness on your scalp. Another way to minimize the embarrassing effects of a dry scalp is the use of supplements that can nourish your scalp and hair. One of the best options you have is the Nufolix hair growth supplement. This supplement has essential nutrients to help you maintain a healthy scalp and hair. It has earned positive reviews from numerous people who testified that it worked wonders for their hair growth problems.

Risk factors of dry scalp

There are life factors that predispose you to dry scalp. Knowing these factors should help you take the necessary precautions to prevent scalp dryness and other related problems, such as itchy bumps on scalp.

Let’s take a look at the common risks associated with dry scalp.

• Skin conditions: If you have certain skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, or eczema, you’re at a higher risk for dry scalp.
• Dehydration: Your water intake determines how much you hydrate yourself. Having enough hydration is beneficial to your skin including your scalp. If you’re dehydrated, it can impact the moisture on your scalp. Dehydration may result in excessive skin dryness.
• Wrong Haircare routine: Your haircare routine can also put you at risk of a dry scalp, especially if you’re using products with harsh chemicals that can strip your scalp of its natural oils. Always use products with natural or gentle ingredients.

Takeaway

Having a dry scalp may mean several things. You may be washing your hair too frequently, or you’re using the wrong hair products. It could also be a symptom related to a skin condition or another underlying factor. Knowing what’s causing your dry scalp is essential to determining the right treatment. Always opt for products with gentle ingredients, or better yet, consider the most natural way to target the dryness on your scalp. Taking care of your scalp is ultimately taking care of your hair.