Tired of dealing with an itchy, flaky scalp that seems to get worse in cold weather? Follow these easy tips to prevent dry scalp!
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Itching and constant flakes can be kind of embarrassing to deal with.
If you’re like me, this issue pops up every winter. The air starts to get a little crisp, and the flakes show up seemingly out of nowhere.
I’ve tried a TON of different remedies for getting rid of scalp flakes and itching, and I’ve got some pretty interesting (and effective!) solutions for you.
Whether you suffer with a dry scalp in winter or all year long, give these easy remedies a try. Here are your 21 ways to prevent dry scalp!
Why It’s Important to Prevent a Dry Scalp
A dry scalp isn’t just uncomfortable – it can have pretty big effects on your overall hair and scalp health. Here are some of the problems that it can cause:
1. Stunted hair growth: A dry, unhealthy scalp can slow down hair growth and lead to thinning.
2. Increased hair breakage: Dry hair is more prone to breakage and split ends.
3. Scalp inflammation: Persistent dryness can lead to inflammation and in severe cases, even infections.
4. Imbalanced oil production: Your scalp may overcompensate by producing excess oil, leading to greasy hair.
5. Weakened hair follicles: Lack of moisture can weaken hair follicles, causing hair to fall out more easily.
6. Static: Dry hair is more prone to static and flyaways (learn to get rid of static in this post)
What Causes Dry Scalp?
Dryness on the scalp tends to happen when there’s a lack of moisture.
If you deal with this, it’s likely you have dry skin on other parts of your body too. Dry scalp can be caused by:
- Hair products (especially using old, expired products)
- Weather
- Being dehydrated
- Aging
- Dry air in your environment
Simple Dry Scalp Remedies
These 21 treatments and remedies are all awesome options to help soothe a dry scalp and flakes!
You don’t need to try all of these remedies at once. Start with one or two that appeal to you and see how your scalp responds.
You can use most of these treatments once or twice a week, but always listen to your scalp and adjust as needed.
1. Green Tea Rinse
Brew a strong cup of green tea, let it cool, and use it as a final rinse after shampooing.
Green tea’s antioxidants can soothe and hydrate your scalp while reducing inflammation.
2. Scalp Exfoliation Brush
Use a soft, silicone scalp brush to massage the scalp before shampooing to gently remove dead skin cells and improve circulation.
This can help your scalp absorb moisture more effectively.
3. Honey Mask
Apply raw honey directly to your scalp as a mask before washing. Honey is a natural humectant, which means it will help your hair and scalp retain moisture.
You can mix it with a little bit of water to thin it out, and apply it with a bottle with a nozzle for easy application. Leave it on for 15-30 minutes before rinsing.
4. Scalp-Focused Yoga
Try inverted yoga poses like downward dog or forward folds to increase blood flow to your scalp.
Better circulation can promote healthier skin and hair growth, so give your scalp a quick massage in forward fold!
5. UV Protectant Spray
Don’t forget sun protection for your scalp, especially if you have thin hair or wear your hair parted.
Use a UV protectant spray designed for hair to shield your scalp from damaging rays. And follow these summer hair care tips to prevent damage!
6. Oatmeal Scalp Scrub
Mix finely ground oatmeal with warm water to create a paste. Gently massage this mixture into your scalp before shampooing.
Oatmeal has natural moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe dry, itchy skin. It also acts as a mild scalp exfoliant to remove dead skin cells.
Rinse it out thoroughly (you’ll probably have to comb or brush it out) and follow with your regular hair care routine.
7. Aloe Vera Gel
Apply pure aloe vera gel directly to your scalp for a cooling, hydrating treatment. Leave it on for 30 minutes before washing your hair as usual.
You can also add other hair growth-boosting ingredients to your aloe vera hair mask.
8. Microfiber Towel
Switch to a soft microfiber towel for drying your hair. The gentle fabric reduces friction, which can help prevent irritation and dryness on your scalp.
9. DIY Rosewater and Glycerin Spray
Mix equal parts rosewater and vegetable glycerin with water in a spray bottle for a hydrating on-the-go scalp mist.
This can provide quick relief for itchy, dry scalps throughout the day.
For 9 other simple DIY recipes with glycerin and rosewater for healthy hair, check out this post!
10. Rice Water Rinse
Leave rice to soak and use the water as strengthening hair rinse (full recipe here). Rice water rinses are rich in vitamins and minerals that can nourish and strengthen your scalp and hair.
11. Scalp Moisturizing Serum
Use a store bought scalp moisturizer or serum specifically designed for dry scalps.
These products are formulated to hydrate the scalp without making your hair greasy.
Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides, which are known for their moisturizing properties.
Apply the product directly to your scalp, focusing on dry areas, and massage gently.
12. Avocado and Egg Yolk Mask
Mash half an avocado with one egg yolk and apply to your scalp and hair. This nutrient-rich mask provides intense moisture and nourishment.
13. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse
Mix one part apple cider vinegar with three parts water for a clarifying and pH-balancing rinse.
This can help remove buildup and restore your scalp’s natural balance.
Check out this post for how to do an ACV rinse for healthy hair!
14. Humidifier
Use a humidifier in your bedroom or office to add moisture to the air. Dry indoor air, especially in winter or in air-conditioned environments, can contribute to scalp dryness.
Using a humidifier would be extra helpful if you live in a dry climate, or to use during winter when indoor heating is used frequently.
15. Silk Sleep Cap
Wear a silk sleep cap or bonnet at night to retain moisture and reduce friction while you sleep. This can help prevent breakage and dry hair, and keep your hair smooth and shiny.
BONUS TIP: Use a satin or silk pillowcase to help protect and grow your hair, AND prevent wrinkles and breakouts.
You May Also Like: 15 Tricks to Make Rice Water Hair Growth Rinses Smell Good!
16. DIY Neem and Tea Tree Oil Serum
Mix a few drops of neem oil and tea tree essential oil with a carrier oil like jojoba. Apply this serum to your scalp for its antimicrobial and moisturizing properties.
17. Cucumber Scalp Mask
Blend a cucumber and apply it directly to your scalp. The high water content and cooling properties can help hydrate and soothe a dry, itchy scalp.
18. Omega-3 Supplement
Take a daily omega-3 supplement or increase your intake of fatty fish. These essential fatty acids can help improve scalp health from the inside out!
19. Herbal Tea Compress
Soak a clean cloth in lukewarm chamomile or peppermint tea. Parting your hair, gently press it into your scalp. This can help reduce inflammation and add moisture.
You May Also Like: 14 Cute Thanksgiving Hairstyles for Long Hair This Fall
20. Scalp Steaming
Use a scalp steamer (or try using a facial steamer on your head) to boost scalp hydration.
The warm, moist air can help open up pores, increase blood circulation to the scalp, and allow for better absorption of moisturizing products.
You can do this as part of an at home Japanese scalp treatment to really treat your scalp!
21. Switch Your Shampoo
Your shampoo might be stripping your hair of all moisture. If that’s the case, try switching to a sulfate-free shampoo, or a gentle DIY shampoo. Remember that you should still use a clarifying shampoo about once a month!
Dry Scalp FAQ’s
You can find quick relief by applying a moisturizing treatment like aloe vera gel or using a DIY rosewater and glycerin spray.
For longer-lasting results, consistent use of the treatments mentioned in this post can make a difference.
Natural remedies like honey masks, green tea rinses, and avocado treatments are excellent options.
Also, stay hydrated by drinking water!
Use a humidifier, avoid hot showers, and try methods like the silk sleep cap/pillowcase or DIY serums.
Also, make sure to stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet rich in healthy fats.
While both can cause flaking, dry scalp is caused by a lack of moisture.
Dandruff is often due to too much oil, or fungus overgrowth. Many of these treatments can help with both issues.
It’s different for everyone, but washing 2-3 times a week with a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo is a good starting point.
Different hair types do better with different washing schedules, so adjust based on your hair’s needs.
Dealing with a dry scalp can be frustrating, but with these remedies, you have plenty of options to try. Don’t be afraid to experiment and see what works for you!
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