How To Treat an Itchy Scalp

If you have an itchy scalp, it can be difficult to think about anything else. In between the endless scratching and discomfort, it can feel like the itch will never stop. However, with the help of some remedies, relief is possible, but you’ll first have to find out why your scalp is itchy.

Why is my scalp itchy?

Several reasons can cause an itchy scalp, including:

1. Dandruff

If your scalp is dry, itchy, and has flakes, you might have dandruff. Dandruff is a type of dermatitis that occurs due to seasonal changes or when there’s a yeast overgrowth on the skin.

2. Reaction to a hair care product

Some hair care products can cause scalp itchiness as they don’t interact well with your scalp’s sensitivity, resulting in an allergic reaction. Therefore, it’s wise to use the right products for your hair to prevent irritation. Additionally, rinse your hair well when shampooing to avoid leaving any residue that might cause a reaction.

3. Head lice

Most people with head lice usually experience itchy scalps. So, if you suspect your head lice is causing your scalp to itch, get rid of the lice. You can easily treat head lice at home by closely examining your scalp and combing out lice eggs.

4. Scalp ringworms

Ringworms are fungus infections that cause red and intensely itchy rashes. Severe ringworms can cause pus-filled bumps that make your scalp itch. Luckily, with proper medication, you can treat scalp ringworms, ensuring itchy scalp relief.

Symptoms of an Itchy Scalp

Generally, an itchy scalp feels painful or tingly. While scratching your scalp may offer some relief, it’s not always advisable as it can cause further pain. Some of the symptoms of an itchy scalp include:

• Irritated or dry skin • Redness • Bald patches • Scalp swelling • Pus-filled sores • Sores, patches, and scales on the scalp

How to Stop Itchy Scalp

Typically, treating your itching scalp depends on the cause. For instance, you can treat dandruff using scalp treatments or dandruff shampoos, which work by killing the fungus or reducing oil production. Other medications that you can use to stop dandruff include antifungal creams, topical steroids, and salicylic acid.

Alternatively, if head lice cause your itchy scalp, you can use a medicine that kills lice or wash the hair with a pediculicide. To prevent further spread, wash all clothes, towels, and bedding that come in contact with the infected person. On the other hand, if you have an allergic reaction to a hair care product, stop using it to curb the itchiness.

Some experts also recommend using home remedies for itchy scalp relief. For instance, apple cider vinegar has antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce scalp itchiness caused by dry skin. On the other hand, peppermint oil is said to effective in soothing and calming down the scalp while reducing dandruff.

However, it’s essential to note that while home remedies are worth a try, there’s no proven proof that they’re effective in preventing itchiness.

How to prevent an itchy scalp

Preventing an itchy scalp begins with giving your scalp some extra TLC. For example, avoid irritating or drying out your scalp and wash your hair regularly to prevent oil and dirt buildup. Additionally, wash your hair with warm water and avoid using products with chemicals, fragrances, and dyes. They might cause an allergic reaction, resulting in itchiness.

Best shampoo for itchy scalp

Shampoos for itchy scalp are an effective way to treat and stop scalp itchiness. They’re formulated to soothe and calm your scalp and can go a long way in kicking your itch to the curb. If you want to get to the root of your itchy scalp, here are some hair care hero products you can use.

1. Christophe Robin Cleansing Purifying Scrub with Sea Salt 2. Grow Gorgeous Sensitive Ceramide Rich Hair and Scalp Mask 3. AMELIORATE Transforming Scalp Serum 4. VIRTUE Scalp and Hair Kit 5. Philip Kingsley Flaky/Itchy Scalp Dry Shampoo