Itchy, flaky scalp can be a sign of dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis. Both conditions are common and usually not serious. They can be annoying, but they're usually easy to treat.
Dandruff is a condition of the scalp that causes flakes of skin to grow and fall off. It's usually caused by a fungus called Malassezia. This fungus is found on the scalps of most people. It doesn't usually cause any problems. But sometimes it can irritate the scalp, causing the skin to flake off.
Seborrheic dermatitis is a condition that causes an itchy, red, scaly rash. It can affect your scalp, face, chest, and other parts of your body. It's often linked to an overgrowth of a different fungus called Malassezia.
Both dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis are common and usually not serious. They can be annoying, but they're usually easy to treat.
Here are some tips to help you get rid of itchy, flaky scalp:
- Wash your hair regularly with a dandruff shampoo.
- Don't scratch your scalp. This can make the problem worse.
- avoid oily hair products. Choose water-based products instead.
- If you have seborrheic dermatitis, try using a medicated cream or shampoo.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar: This is a great all-natural itch reliever. Simply mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle and spritz on your scalp. Let it sit for a few minutes then rinse out. Repeat a few times a week as needed.
2. Tea tree oil: This oil has potent anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties that make it ideal for treating scalps with dandruff or psoriasis. Add a few drops to your shampoo or conditioner, or mix it with some jojoba oil and massage into your scalp. Rinse after a few minutes.
3. Aloe Vera: This is another great soothing agent for itchy skin. You can either massage pure aloe vera gel directly into your scalp, or add a couple tablespoons to your shampoo before washing. Rinse thoroughly afterwards.
4. Coconut oil: This nourishing oil can help moisturize dry, flaky scalp. Just massage a small amount into your scalp and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before washing out as usual. You can do this a few times a week or as needed.
5. Baking soda: This common pantry item can actually work wonders on an itchy scalp. Mix together 1/4 cup baking soda and 1 cup water until the baking soda is dissolved. Pour it over your wet hair and scalp, then massage in for a minute or two before rinsing out.