An itchy scalp with flaky skin isn't necessarily a case of dandruff. Dermatitis, eczema, a fungal infection, psoriasis, and stress can all make your scalp itch.
Adding harsh shampoos and chemicals to your hair will dry it out, make it frizz, and may make the problem worse. What you really need is to find a remedy that won't kill your hair as it treats the itch. Be sure to figure out the source of your itch first. Once that's done, here are eight home remedies you can try to soothe your itchy scalp.
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1. Shampoos. One of the most basic things to do, according to Healthline, is to pick up some shampoo that has been formulated for whatever problem is causing your itchy scalp. Ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, and salicylic acid have all been proven to help treat the root cause of your itch.
2. Olive oil. If you want to avoid chemicals and are really only concerned about relief, NDTV FOOD suggests trying olive oil. It's moisturizing and contains anti-inflammatory properties. Warm the oil for about seven seconds before applying it directly to the scalp. Cover your hair with a shower cap to keep from getting the oil on your pillow. Leave the oil on overnight, and rinse it out in the morning. Do this twice per week.
3. Aloe vera gel. According to Head and Shoulders, aloe vera is soothing. You will often notice immediate relief. It may not actually solve the underlying problem, but you will find short-term relief from itchiness. You can apply the gel directly to your scalp or add it to your favorite shampoo to use it daily.
4. Peppermint oil. Peppermint oil is thought to help with dandruff. Healthline offers two options for using it. You can use peppermint tea as a rinse, or you can cut peppermint oil with a carrier oil and massage it into your scalp before shampooing.
5. Coconut oil. NDTV FOOD shares that coconut oil is very hydrating. It also has anti-fungal properties, so if a fungus causing your itch, this may work. Warm the oil for 10 seconds before using it. Massage it into your scalp, and let it sit for 15 minutes before rinsing.
6. Tea tree oil. Medical News Today states that tea tree oil may help with dandruff, although the research is rather old. Because of how harsh this is on your skin, you should never use tea tree oil undiluted. Cut it with a carrier oil like olive oil or coconut oil first. You could also add it to your shampoo. To be effective against dandruff, your shampoo needs to have a concentration of at least 5 percent tea tree oil.
7. Relaxation. For cases of scalp itch that are caused by stress, Healthline recommends some good, old-fashioned relaxation. Yoga, tai chi, reading a good book, taking a walk — anything that helps you relax and shed your stress will help.
8. Apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar may have anti-inflammatory properties, but exercise this home remedy with caution. Head and Shoulders points out that the acidity of the vinegar can actually work against your body, so only rinse your hair with apple cider vinegar, never let it sit. Otherwise, the vinegar may also be too harsh for your skin.
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Don't be embarrassed by an itchy scalp. Take action with these easy home remedies and kiss the itch goodbye.