Itchy Scalp – How to soothe a dry and itchy scalp

Do you have an itchy scalp? You’re not alone! Having a sensitive and dry scalp is a common issue that can feel both uncomfortable and annoying. Don't worry, there are several ways to soothe an itchy scalp. We’re here to explore the causes and guide you with tips and advice to alleviate the discomfort!

What causes an itchy scalp?

There can be several reasons why your scalp is itching, from allergic reactions to inflammatory skin conditions or dry skin. The first step towards a balanced and healthy scalp is to understand more about what is causing the issue. Some common triggers that can make your scalp itch are:

• Dry skin: the scalp can become dry, just like the skin on your face and body. Dry skin can be caused by factors such as over-washing, product residue from styling products or seasonal changes in the weather.
• Dandruff: a common cause of itchy scalp is dandruff. Dandruff causes flaky skin to shed from the scalp, which is why some might find it a bit embarrassing. Dandruff can be caused by yeast-like fungus and can affect both oily and dry scalps.
• Allergic reactions: some people can be allergic to ingredients in certain hair products. If you have just tried a new hair product you can stop using it for a couple of weeks and see if the itching stops.
• Eczema: this skin condition can affect the scalp as well. Seborrheic dermatitis is a form of eczema that is a common cause for itchy scalp and can be recognized by red dry and flaky patches on the scalp or face.
• Psoriasis: psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes the skin to become dry and flaky. Psoriasis can also affect the skin on the scalp and neck and cause itching.

Tips for dry and itchy scalp

To help ease your itching scalp, you can follow some simple steps to soothe the irritation. It’s important to note that the right way to treat your itching scalp also depends on the underlying cause, so it’s always best to consult your doctor or dermatologist if it’s caused by a medical skin condition.

1. Avoid hot water: warm water strips your skin of moisture and natural oils, which means that your scalp can become dry and itchy. Instead, stick to lukewarm water when washing your hair.
2. Update your hair wash routine: use a dry shampoo instead of over-washing your hair, but don't leave your washday for too long if you feel like your scalp is starting to itch. When you wash your hair, make sure to shampoo twice and massage the scalp thoroughly to get rid of excess oils and product residue.
3. Use gentle haircare products: look for products that's formulated especially for dry, itchy scalp. You might also want to look for products that don't contain sulfates, as it can strip your hair and scalp of natural oils.
4. Don’t do tight hairstyles: even though hairstyles like braids and ponytails look great, it can be a good idea to let your hair down if you have an itching scalp. Tight hairstyles pull on the scalp which can cause irritation.
5. Moisturise the scalp: just like the skin on your body needs moisture, you can moisturise your scalp with natural oils and products made for the scalp.

Best products for Itchy Scalp

If you're looking for hair products for an itchy scalp, there are several options. We’ve picked out our favourites and will tell you all about the best ways to use them:

Shampoo for itchy scalp

The first step in your hair care routine should be a gentle shampoo formulated for itching scalps. Try the Head & Hair Heal shampoo, which is made for sensitive skin and contains calming aloe vera extract.

Conditioner for itchy scalp

When using moisturising hair products like conditioner, look for products that can also be applied to the scalp without being too heavy or weighing the hair down. Head & Hair Heal Conditioner can be applied to both lengths and scalp to add moisture.

Hair mask for itchy scalp

Maximise the soothing with a nourishing hair mask that can treat both the hair and scalp. We recommend Head & Hair Heal Masque which can be massaged onto the scalp to add moisture.

Hair treatment for itchy scalp

When you don’t have the time for a full three-step routine, but don’t want to skip on scalp care, try a fast-acting finishing hair treatment like our Head & Hair Heal Booster that can be applied to both hair and scalp. This hero product is boosted with more active ingredients and fragrance than a hair mask and conditioner, but don’t worry – the perfume in the Head & Hair Heal range is allergen-free to suit sensitive skin.

Exfoliate itchy scalp

Exfoliating the scalp removes dead skin cells and can help to relieve itchiness caused by dry or oily skin, just make sure that you are gentle to the skin to not cause more irritation. A tool like the Scalp Brush is great to make this easy and it even feels like a massage!