Dry scalp: how to get rid of dryness
Having a dry scalp causes discomfort because it involves itching and irritation. The causes are many and can often change from person to person. In any case, there are valid solutions to put into practice to get rid of dry skin once and for all and we will introduce you in this article. Before continuing to read, we suggest you watch the video below to prepare an effective mask against dry hair at home.
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Sore scalp: remedies for burning and itching
Dry scalp: what is it all about?
Dry scalp is a solvable problem, but to understand how to do it, it is good to focus above all on what the scalp is. It consists of various layers of skin that cover the skullcap, where there are also blood vessels, hair bulbs and hair. . The main function of the scalp is to act as a barrier, protecting and thermally insulating from external agents. If the natural balance of the scalp is damaged, the consequence can be itching and dry skin. A dry and itchy scalp can be associated with aging or with particular skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis or psoriasis, which can occur with very mild to extreme symptoms.
The main causes of dry scalp
The main causes behind dry scalp are different, but they can be divided into internal and external. Let's see what they are specifically.
Internal causes that can cause dry and itchy scalp include:
- particular skin conditions such as Atopic Dermatitis or Psoriasis
- normal and physiological aging of the skin
- physical stress and emotional factors
- genetics
- hormonal changes
Among the external causes, however, they can cause dryness and itching of the scalp:
- sudden changes in temperature and change of season
- lifestyle
- unbalanced diet
- smoke
- taking medications
- environmental pollution
- harsh cosmetics such as shampoos, soaps and hair treatments
Generally speaking, when the natural hydration of the scalp is lost, its protective layer can be damaged. It is precisely at this time that harmful substances easily penetrate the skin, causing micro-inflammations of the scalp. This process causes itching, redness and a feeling of tightness of the skin.
When we talk about microinflammations we are referring to mild inflammations of the skin, so mild that it is not often detected during clinical studies. In a nutshell, the skin responds to irritation with inflammation and therefore tries to restore itself on its own. Microinflammations of the scalp are to be considered the first cause of a whole series of ailments such as hair thinning and dandruff, dryness, itching and to the sensitivity of the scalp.
If you notice anything abnormal related to the scalp (sudden hair loss, brittle hair, etc ...) you may have a non-manifest condition such as a thyroid problem, a lack of iron, or an autoimmune disease. Or it could be taking certain medications that causes you to dry out your skin. Ask your dermatologist for a consultation to investigate the problem.
Dry scalp: can it be prevented?
Dry skin can be caused by various factors internal to our body or coming from outside. The main causes of dry scalp are:
- deficiency of zinc, B vitamins
- poor hair hygiene
- seborrheic dermatitis
- use of hair dryers at high temperatures
- contact dermatitis
To prevent the disorder it is evident that the best way is to act on these causes. Make sure that the diet is varied and balanced, taking fruit and vegetables in large quantities that are used above all to store the main vitamins. Use a specific shampoo, which is moisturizing for the skin and avoid the hair dryer at too high temperatures. All these are just small tricks, but they can make a difference.
The most effective remedies for dry scalp
But what are the most effective treatments for a dry scalp?
- Use of delicate products
In case of dry skin, the first advice is to use a mild shampoo. There are many on the market, if you are not sure of the choice, let your dermatologist advise you.
- Massage with oil
Another remedy to get rid of dry skin is to give a vigorous massage using a hair oil. It will serve to deeply hydrate, also stimulating circulation.
- Laser therapy
Laser therapy is used only in the most severe cases and serves to revitalize the hair bulbs, eliminating the sensation of tightness of the skin and giving new life to the scalp.
Here are some regenerating hair oils at super affordable prices!
Home remedies for dry scalp
If you have a dry scalp, you will need to restore normal hydration levels. Here are some home remedies to experiment and that could make a difference from the first applications.
In summary, dry scalp is a problem that arises when the skin's natural water defenses are damaged and allow moisture to escape. Hence, it is necessary to restore these hydration levels and you can try this way.
Coconut oil or olive oil
Coconut oil and olive oil are best friends for those looking for home and natural remedies. By moisturizing dry scalp they help restore skin health and reduce symptoms associated with dryness.
In particular, coconut oil is famous for being an excellent moisturizer and in many cultures around the world, it is used for skin and hair care.
However, it must be considered that this type of remedy could lead to immediate benefit, but in the long run it would not solve the cause of the problem. Those with dry scalp often witness the appearance of dandruff. Dandruff acts negatively on the natural defense barrier of the dry scalp and causes the onset of dryness. Treatment with coconut oil and olive oil will not eliminate dandruff, but can only give mild relief.
Could it be helpful to use an anti-dandruff shampoo?
This type of shampoo acts against the dryness of the scalp associated with dandruff, and repairs the damage caused on the skin.
Here are our tips to help you choose the right anti-dandruff shampoo.
- RestivOil Complex Anti-Dandruff Shampoo - you can find it on Amazon at a price of € 9.04
- RestivOil Zero Anti Itch and Irritation Shampoo - you can find it on Amazon at a price of € 9.45
- Head & Shoulders Classic Clean Anti-Dandruff Shampoo savings pack - you can find it on Amazon at a price of € 17.42
See some anti-dandruff shampoos on offer!
Dry scalp frequently asked questions
Should anyone with dry scalp use conditioner?
The conditioner is a product to be used immediately after shampooing, leave on for a few minutes and then rinse. On the market there are different specific types for various problems. If you suffer from dry scalp, you may want to opt for a moisturizing and anti-dandruff conditioner, which will help keep the problem at bay. Remember to always combine it with a specific shampoo and use the two products in combination.
Can people with dry scalp lose their hair?
There is no specific relationship between itchy and dry scalp and hair loss, however even in this case hair loss can be a consequence of the root cause that led to the problem of dry scalp. It is also true that often the itching associated with this disorder leads the subject to scratch and this action could affect hair loss.
