Do you struggle with an itchy and dry scalp? While it is normal for the skin on your scalp to die and fall off, some people experience excessive dryness and irritation. This embarrassing itching and powdery flakes is a very irritating condition.
While there are many over-the-counter and prescription medications, usually in shampoo form for excessive dandruff, some of these may contain sulfites, which certain people may be allergic to. People with asthma, low blood sugar, liver disease or porphyria may suffer more intensely and should talk to their physician before using a medicated shampoo.
Rather than using medicated shampoo, why not try a cheaper and less harsh treatment for your itchy scalp?
Wash your hair daily – Washing your hair everyday can help remove the loose dandruff and rinse it down the drain. This will prevent scales from building up on your head. It is also very important to shower after exercise. Sweat will cause the dandruff to loosen, so a quick shower will help wash it away.
Use baking soda – Try using baking soda instead of your regular shampoo. Wet your hair and rub a tablespoon of baking soda into your wet hair and scalp, and let it sit for about one minute.
Wash and rinse out with warm water. Be patient with baking soda, you will notice that your scalp is less dry after about two weeks, as it will begin making its own oils which will moisturize your head.
Rotate your shampoo – Rotate between using 3 different kinds of shampoo. Your scalp can become resistant to one type and the dandruff may return. Rotate shampoos to eliminate this problem.
Rinse with lemon juice – Rinse your hair with lemon juice after shampooing. Lemon conditions and softens the hair, which will help keep dandruff at bay.
Stop scratching – As much as it may itch, try to avoid scratching your itchy scalp. This will only cause more irritation and even more scratching.
Use coconut oil – Rub some warm coconut oil into your hands and then rub it on your scalp. Coconut oil will moisturize your scalp and although may seem greasy, will help to reduce dandruff tremendously. Just use a little bit, it goes a long way. You can also put coconut oil on your scalp and cover your head with a towel wrap over night. Be sure to rinse the coconut oil out thoroughly in the morning.
Use tea tree oil – Tea tree oil smells lovely and is a natural antiseptic. Rub a little tea tree oil on your scalp and let it sit for about five minutes. Rinse the oil out with warm water and repeat daily until your scalp appears less dry. After this, do a tea tree treatment once a week.
Other Tips
- Sometimes your scalp and all your skin is dry because of the diet you are eating. If you eat a diet high in processed foods and very few whole foods such as vegetables and fruits, you might be contributing to your dry scalp. Try to eat a well-balanced diet with at least 8 servings of vegetables and fruits.
- Does your dandruff flare up when you are under stress? If you notice a difference, it may be time to practice some stress reduction techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises.
- Taking a high quality fish oil and probiotic can help reduce scalp dryness.
- If you blow dry your hair excessively, you may want to limit the amount of time that you expose your hair to the hot insults of an electric dryer. Let your hair air dry as much as possible and you may notice an immediate difference.
- Use as few hair products as possible. Try washing your hair with baking soda and rinsing with apple cider vinegar. Conventional shampoos may leave an irritating residue on your hair that builds up over time.
-The Alternative Daily
Sources:
http://www.sharecare.com/health/dermatology-drugs/risks-using-medicated-dandruff-shampoos;jsessionid=A03FE43285AB81C2299A5D70734181CC
http://www.thedailygreen.com/living-green/blogs/organic-parenting/dandruff
