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Dry scalp treatment

Dry scalp is a common condition that affects many people around the world, men and women alike. Dry skin is characterized by a dry and itchy scalp, and can be the resulted from a number of reasons. The dryness may be the result of dandruff problems, harsh environmental exposures, or excessive use of products with harmful chemicals, such as shampoos, dyes, etc. Frequent application of chemical treatments in the hair may also result in a dry and itchy scalp. Bleaches and dyes containing acidic bases are especially harmful to the scalp. These chemicals strip off the natural moisture from the scalp, resulting in a dry and irritated scalp. Under certain conditions, these chemicals can cause severe allergic reactions, skin rashes and scalp eczema, and hair loss as well. Sensitive scalp is in more danger from these chemicals than are normal or oily scalps. However, taking proper care and cure measures will reduce the problem of dry scalp.

Dry scalp treatment can be started at home. Here are a few measures that can be taken to treat dry scalp conditions.

• It helps to resist the desire of shampooing too frequently. Over washing dry out the scalp by removing all the natural oils that help to maintain a healthy scalp. It is also important to use a little shampoo while washing, and to avoid the temptation to repeat in order to attain a ‘squeaky’ clean scalp.
• Over brushing the hair is also harmful and may irritate the scalp, inducing a dry and staticky feeling. It is also necessary to try to avoid scratching the head, as it may further irritate the scalp.
• It is necessary to use the right products on the head. It is always better to use moisturizing shampoos and conditioners that are specifically created for dry scalp, and are also mild for sensitive scalps. Reducing the use of a variety of chemical products on the scalp will also ensure its good health. However, moisture treatments products, like leave-in conditioners, can be used to replace lost moisture in the scalp.
• Cutting down or completely avoiding heat treatments really rescues the scalp from damages resulting from heat. Heat burns out or removes the natural moisture balance in the hair, making the scalp dry and itchy. Long hot showers are also not recommended for dry scalp conditions, and it is better to always air-dry the hair, rather than heat or blow drying.
• Using an at-home oil treatment such as with olive or almond oil may help to replenish the hair with the lost moisture, and improve scalp condition. However, after an oil treatment, the hair should be gently shampooed only, as it is important to try not to remove all the helpful oils.
• While oiling or shampooing, massaging the hair helps to increase blood flow, thus resulting in a healthier scalp. Massaging also open clogged pores, and removes dead skin cells, thus making these easy to wash off.

It may also help to cover the head during certain climatic conditions as extreme hot, cold or dry weather may irritate the scalp, making it dry and itchy. If these remedies do not work after prolonged application, the condition might be the result of medical problems, such as dandruff, fungal infections, eczema, psoriasis, or ringworm. Therefore, if home remedies do not show improving results, it is better to consult a dermatologist who can identify the actual reason behind the condition, and prescribe the necessary products or medications accordingly. The dermatologist may prescribe a steroid cream or an anti-dandruff shampoo that will help to alleviate and sooth the dry skin condition.

Last updated on Sep 9th, 2010 and filed under Skin Care. Both comments and pings are currently closed.