Dealing with An Itchy Scalp

A dry and itchy scalp can be uncomfortable, irritating, and sometimes embarrassing when accompanied by dandruff. An itchy, dry scalp can be caused by both internal and external factors that disturb the scalp’s natural moisture balance. It can also be associated with ageing, hormones, and skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis – with symptoms ranging from mild to extreme.

What can cause a dry and itchy scalp?

Internal factors can include skin conditions such as psoriasis, age (as we age our skin tends to become drier), stress, genetics, and hormonal changes and fluctuations.

External factors include changes in temperature and seasons, poor diet, smoking, medications, environmental pollution, and shampoos and hair treatments that contain aggravating chemicals.

Once the scalp’s natural moisture is lost, its protective layer becomes compromised, allowing harmful substances to penetrate the skin and cause inflammation. This inflammation can cause your scalp to become irritated, leading to itching, redness, and a sensation of tightness where the skin is dry.

Do you have a dry and itchy scalp?

You may have a dry and itchy scalp if…

• You are frequently scratching your scalp: some people have even reported scratching in their sleep.
• You have recently been exposed to one or more of the causes listed above: especially if your symptoms developed soon afterwards.
• You have white flakes or yellow scales in your scalp and hair.

You may have another scalp condition if…

• You may have dandruff or seborrhoeic dermatitis.
• You have red, scaly, silvery-looking patches on your scalp.
• You may have Psoriasis.

How can I treat a dry and itchy scalp?

For general dry and itchy scalp conditions, using the right treatments can often bring much needed relief. For those suffering with a dry, flaky scalp, we highly recommend Philip Kingsley’s Flaky Itchy Scalp range which consists of a shampoo, toner, and mask treatment.

For those with skin conditions and more sensitive scalps, Eucerin’s DermoCapillaire shampoo and scalp treatment are free from harsh cleansers and irritants, helping to calm sensitive scalps aiding with dryness, itching, and inflammation.

If you are suffering with severe scalp conditions, then we highly recommend you see your doctor or dermatologist.