How to Cure Itchy Scalp

A dry, itchy scalp can be a source of great annoyance. Scratching your head can make you look unattractive and feel extremely uncomfortable. Often, the cure for a dry, itchy scalp is straightforward and very simple. Just make sure you don't have another more serious condition that might require medical attention.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Ensure that your hair is clean. A build-up of oils or dirt can clog pores and make your scalp feel itchy. Sometimes, a good shampoo is the best cure for an itchy scalp. Look for a shampoo with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5 to keep your scalp moisturized.

2. Consider your hair products. If your hair is clean, your itchy scalp might be due to an allergic reaction to a shampoo, conditioner or other hair product. A new product might have irritated your skin, or your skin could have developed a reaction to an old product. Consider changing your hair care routine in order to cure a dry, itchy scalp.

3. Eliminate other chemical causes. Hair dye and the chemicals used in perms can irritate the scalp. Talk to your hairdresser or stylist about soothing lotions or creams that can counteract the itchiness.

4. Notice whether you have white flakes in your hair. Dandruff can be a cause of scalp itchiness, and you can easily treat it with over-the-counter shampoos.

5. Note whether you have been exposed to the sun recently. Sometimes, an itchy scalp is a sign of sunburn. This type of itchiness should go away once your skin recovers.

6. Determine whether you have lice. If your itchy scalp lasts for several days, or if your condition worsens, check your hair for the white or grayish eggs that can indicate lice. These eggs look like dandruff, but they are attached to individual hairs and do not move when you touch them. Treat lice immediately. Over-the-counter treatments are very effective.

Tips & Warnings

• Try putting a thick coat of mayonnaise or some olive oil on your scalp to cure dry itchiness. Some people find this a very effective cure.

• Some antihistamines might work to cure a dry, itchy scalp when nothing else does.

• Remember to apply sunscreen to the part in your hair if you plan to be outdoors for a long time.

• Sometimes, a persistent scalp itch can be caused by something more serious, like ringworm of the scalp. Consult your doctor or dermatologist if your dry, itchy scalp seems to get worse and if not treatments improve it.

• Do not use lice medication unless you're sure you really have lice. This medication is very strong and can be harmful.