Whether you’re dealing with dandruff or product buildup (looking at you, dry shampoo), there’s a way to manage it. Need some guidance on your scalp-care journey? You’re in the right place. Ahead, see expert insight from leading dermatologists and trichologists—a.k.a. hair and scalp specialists—on what causes dry and itchy scalp, as well as how to prevent and treat it.
What causes a dry scalp?
There are several reasons you might have a dry scalp,
- Dry skin
- Dry weather and seasonal changes
- Dandruff, or seborrheic dermatitis
- A buildup of products to which your skin might be reacting to
- Psoriasis
- Your grooming habits could be responsible for some of your scalp discomfort. “Overwashing or underwashing can each lead to dryness or itching,
How then do You treat dry scalp?
– If it is as a result of product buildup, managing the symptoms is as simple as modifying your scalp-care routine. “Products that are heavy in sulfates and surfactants and some fragrances can all cause dry scalp,`Additionally, using too much dry shampoo can lead to a large amount of buildup on the scalp, blocking the hair follicles and causing various scalp issues.
– Always try to tie scalp care back to skin care- By incorporating oil-based treatments into your routine, as this removes excess buildup. Then follow up with a hydrating treatment or mask.
– Avoid products with harsh ingredients like sulfates, parabens, simple alcohols, formaldehyde, and synthetic fragrances. Instead, look for products with nourishing ingredients like keratin and essential fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6 that will infuse moisture back into the scalp
– Treat the dry scalp with a humectant, like an aloe vera gel, and seal the hydration with a lightweight oil like argan or jojoba before bed. If the scalp seems dry, limit the number of times the hair is shampooed per week and opt for a co-wash instead. Co-washes don’t contain as many harsh ingredients like parabens and sulfates that will strip the scalp of its natural oils.
