How to Treat Itchy Scalp

There are relatively easy ways to treat an itchy scalp.

An itchy scalp is a troublesome distraction that can be both annoying and unflattering. In addition to the overall discomfort you feel when your scalp itches, you may end up with dandruff flakes in your hair when the act of scratching dislodges dead skin particles. While itchy scalp can be indicative of a more serious skin problem, most bouts of itchy scalp are relatively mild and can be resolved with over-the-counter remedies. Depending on the severity of your case, you should be able to resolve your symptoms in a few weeks.

Instructions

1. If your scalp itches, stop using your current shampoo and switch to something more gentle such as coconut or tea tree oil shampoo. Harsh shampoos can cause the irritation that leads to an itchy scalp. If the issue is irritation, you should start to see improvement in a few days. If not, your issue may not be related to the shampoo.

2. Rinse your hair with conditioner each time you shower to keep it healthy and strong. Conditioner will also return moisture to your skin; keeping your skin well hydrated is key in avoiding dry, itchy irritation. Adding a gentle conditioner is often enough to resolve minor scalp problems.

3. Wash your hair frequently to prevent dirt and skin cells from amassing on your scalp, which can cause inflammation and even infections. If you only wash your hair every few days, this buildup could be the primary cause of your itchy scalp. Try to work more frequent washings into your schedule to see if your symptoms subside.

4. Apply lotion to your scalp if your symptoms are the result of overexposure to the sun. A sunburned scalp is a common cause of itchiness. You should always apply sunblock to your scalp when spending time outdoors.

Tips & Warnings

• Speak with a dermatologist to ensure that your symptoms are not the result of an underlying condition. Further causes of itchy scalp include ringworm, dermatitis, folliculitis and psoriasis, all of which require a doctor's care to treat.

References

• Health Hype: Itchy Scalp -- Pictures, Causes and Treatment
• Better Medicine; Itchy Scalp; Causes
• World of Hair; Itchy Scalp and Recommended Products