The telltale sign of a dry scalp is persistent itchiness, but it may also be accompanied by dandruff, soreness, and hair loss.
Dry scalp can have a number of different causes, though the most common is a reaction to the change in weather or a harsh ingredient in hair care products.
Sometimes, something as simple as washing your hair every day or not drinking enough water can be the cause, though medical conditions like eczema or psoriasis could also be the reason.
No matter the cause, we’ve put together some solutions for at-home treatment you can try to treat your dry scalp.
By Ana Gotter, on May 11, 2022 https://www.healthline.com/health/home-remedies-for-dry-scalp
1. Coconut oilCoconut oil has long been used for its skin health benefits, and dry scalp is no exception. It can moisturize the scalp, and its antifungal and antibacterial properties can help reduce the risk of infections. Research shows it may even significantly help treat atopic dermatitis.
Where to buy: Coconut oil is available at grocery stores and online.
How to use: Apply a small amount of melted coconut oil directly to your scalp, massaging it into the skin. Leave it to sit for at least 10 minutes before washing your hair as you usually would. Not only will this help with dry scalp, but it will also leave your hair silky smooth.
2. Tea tree oilTea tree oil has strong antiseptic, antifungal, and antibiotic properties that can relieve dry scalp and its symptoms. It’s why many dandruff shampoos have tea tree oil in them.
Where to buy: You can purchase tea tree oil as an essential oil from many drugstores, as well as online at retailers like Amazon. It’s also possible to find shampoos that contain tea tree oil as an active ingredient that may be marketed for people with dry scalp.
How to use: You can use one of these products or mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil, like coconut or olive oil, and massage it into your scalp. Leave it on for 10 minutes before washing it out.
3. Aloe veraAloe vera has a number of properties that can help with dry scalp. It has anti-inflammatory propertiesTrusted Source that can help reduce skin irritation, and it’s also an effective moisturizing agent.
Where to buy: You can buy hair care products containing aloe vera or buy pure aloe vera gel online and in many stores.
How to use: Apply it topically to your scalp, and let it sit for 10 minutes before washing it out. You can also take oral aloe vera supplements or drink aloe vera juice, but keep in mind that they can act as a laxative.
4. Apple cider vinegarApple cider vinegar has several great health benefits that can reduce symptoms of dry scalp.
It’s antimicrobial, which means it can eliminate the bacteria or fungi that could cause itchiness. It’s also anti-inflammatory, and it can help exfoliate your scalp, both of which can helpTrusted Source treat dry scalp itself.
Where to buy: You can find apple cider vinegar in most stores and online.
How to use: Mix 1 part apple cider vinegar with 2 parts water and apply it directly to your scalp. Let it sit for 5 minutes before washing it out with a gentle shampoo and conditioning your hair like usual.
5. Witch hazelWitch hazel is often marketed in anti-itch products designed for dry and sensitive skin, and it’s historically been used in herbal medicine.
You can use it to decrease inflammation that could be causing dry scalp from certain conditions. It also has powerful astringent propertiesTrusted Source that may soothe symptoms of dry scalp.
Where to buy: Witch hazel can be purchased online on its own in a liquid form or be found in a number of soaps and lotions.
How to use: Mix 1 part liquid witch hazel with 2 parts water or carrier oil. Massage it thoroughly into your scalp and let it sit for 5 minutes before washing your hair as you usually would.
6. Baking soda and olive oilOlive oil is moisturizing, and baking soda has antifungal and antibacterial properties. The two together can exfoliate your scalp.
The baking soda and olive oil combination is a good choice if you have dandruff alongside dry scalp, as the moisture, exfoliation, and antifungal properties combined can treat those itchy white flakes.
Where to buy: You can purchase both baking soda and olive oil at a grocery store.
How to use: Mix equal parts baking soda and olive oil together and thoroughly massage it into your scalp. Let it sit for 5 minutes before washing your hair well with shampoo and conditioner to remove all the residue.
7. Mashed bananasBananas are nourishing and moisturizing, making them a great treatment for dry scalp and even dandruff.
In addition to being moisturizing, they’re a natural antimicrobialTrusted Source. The two benefits combined can help clear up your dry scalp.
Where to buy: You can buy bananas at a grocery store.
How to use: Mash or blend a banana with a few tablespoons of coconut or olive oil. Blending it will make it easier to rinse out of your hair. Massage it into your scalp and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes.
8. Yogurt and egg
Though this may sound like breakfast, yogurt and eggs both have unique benefits that can relieve dry scalp.
Yogurt is soothing on the skin and can also be exfoliating, while the fat and protein content in eggs can nourish and protect the scalp by preventing free radical damage at the cellular level.
Where to buy: You can purchase both yogurt and eggs at a grocery store.
How to use: Use a few tablespoons of plain, unflavored yogurt with no added sugar and mix in one well-beaten egg. Massage it into your hair and scalp, and wait 10 minutes before washing it out. Rinse with lukewarm or cold water, or the egg may cook and can be difficult to remove from your hair.
9. Jojoba oil
Like coconut oil, jojoba oil can be an effective moisturizerTrusted Source that can relieve dry scalp quickly. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that may treat skin conditions affecting the scalp.
Where to buy: You can find jojoba oil in stores and online, often in liquid form.
How to use: To use it for dry scalp, you can add a few drops of jojoba oil to your shampoo. This will allow for regular hydration and prevent your shampoo from drying out your scalp further.
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