An itchy head is not desirable, because we can appear suspicious and disorderly to others. Mainly because this body language can indicate that we have head lice or some other serious problem. But did you know that an extremely dry scalp can also be behind this phenomenon? And can something be done about this problem even at home?
Some people may mistake dry scalp for dandruff in their hair. Especially because even dry skin can shed small particles that may appear as a manifestation of another problem.
Since both dandruff and dry scalp require a slightly different approach, which may be related to, for example, the correct choice of cosmetics, you may be making fundamental mistakes in hair care that can lead to the worsening of your problems. And you don’t want that. Or yes?
How does dry scalp occur? What is the difference between it and dandruff? And what tips and tricks should you try while taking care of her?
Dry skin vs. dandruff
Let’s start by looking at the main differences between dry scalp and dandruff. The main one is that dandruff can be oily, while pieces of dry skin are not. In addition, dandruff can be whitish to yellowish. Reddened and irritated skin is also not uncommon with dandruff. Dry skin, on the other hand, also commonly causes dryness in other parts of the body.
The main causes of dry scalp
Causes and symptoms of dry scalp – how to solve them?
You may have a dry scalp due to genetics. In this case, the skin behaves as it naturally does and requires you to supply it with more hydration, which it naturally lacks. It is also useful to protect it from rapid loss of moisture, which can make the problem of dryness and itching on the head (and on other parts of the body) even worse. Other risk factors for the development of this problem include skin problems, such as contact dermatitis or psoriasis.
The dryness of the scalp can also be affected by:
- Dry and cold air
- Seniority
- Low-quality cosmetics that deprive the scalp of moisture
How can it be solved?
An extremely dry scalp should not be ignored, as its condition can get so bad that it will eventually require the intervention of a professional. Fortunately, it doesn’t have to come to such a stage. Especially when you know what to do.
01: The right shampoo and conditioner
Even if this is not your primary concern, try shampoos to promote hair growth and reduce hair loss. Why? Because many have a natural composition, they do not contain sulfates and ensure gentle washing of the skin and hair. They often contain ingredients of natural origin that promote hydration. These include, for example, argan oil. Other popular ingredients include stinging nettle and moisturizing aloe vera.
Do not put the conditioner on the scalp, as it will be best on the ends and lengths. (Approximately up to your ears.) Thanks to its use, even dry hair will no longer bother you and it will be easier to comb.
02: Vitamins for hair and skin
Another important point is the supplementation of hair vitamins, which can also benefit dry skin and nails. Horsetail, brewer’s yeast, group B vitamins, vitamin E, and many others are important for their normal condition. You can get a generous dose of them in your body through over-the-counter natural food supplements to support hair growth.
The advantage of such a step is that when using them, especially in combination with the right cosmetics, you can more easily achieve thick and healthy hair, which at first glance will not lack anything essential.
03: Oil mask for the scalp
You definitely can’t go wrong with the fact that you will apply caring cosmetic oils to your scalp at least once a week, which will be able to properly lubricate the skin, provide it with hydration, and protect it from unwanted drying and cracking.
For this purpose, it is ideal:
- Coconut oil
- Argan oil
- Olive oil
- Almond oil
You can leave the oil as it is, just warm it up a little in your palms and then apply a sufficient amount directly to the roots, where you let it work for a few minutes. (Best under an old towel.) Afterward, don’t forget to wash your hair thoroughly with shampoo, otherwise, the remaining oil will cause mischief at the roots.
Dry scalp in children
If you have been suffering from dry scalp in children for a long time, you should first consult with your doctor about this problem. After mutual agreement, you can then try applying a special children’s oil to the child’s hair, which is suitable for this purpose. In the pharmacy, you can also ask for advice on buying shampoo with zinc content.
However, small children should not come into contact with products that contain salicylic acid. If the problem is more serious, your doctor may also recommend a special preparation with hydrocortisone but do not take this step without his prior approval.
What are your tips and tricks for a dry scalp?