Most of us have gone through an itchy scalp more than once. And we all know that itch doesn’t give you advance notice on when it will strike, which makes it annoying at best, and totally irritating at worst. There are two types of scalp itches. One is a little itch where you give it one scratch and everything’s good, but then again there is an itchy scalp that screams for more attention, meaning you have to do something about it. We have compiled a few home remedies for itchy scalp that might give your scalp a break.
Why Your Scalp Might be Itching
The worst part of having an itchy scalp is not being able to get rid of that itch. Not only is it uncomfortable, it can lead to hair loss as well in some cases. There are a number of reasons why your scalp is itching. According to the experts, these include scalp psoriasis, eczema, dryness, not washing your hair and scalp, head lice, overuse and buildup of products, dandruff, contact dermatitis, scalp sunburn, and excessive stress and anxiety. As we have mentioned before, it is very important to pinpoint what’s causing your itchy scalp before trying to put an end to it. Remember: Treat the cause, not the symptom.
Home Remedies for Itchy Scalp
Regular Washing
This is one of those home remedies for itchy scalp that are mostly encouraged. If your itching scalp is being caused by a build-up of products, dust, dirt or other impurities, then you might consider increasing the frequency of your wash days. Just remember to go easy on your scalp so that you do not irritate it further, leading to infections.
Hot Oil
A hot-oil hair and scalp treatment has always been my go-to when it comes to hair TLC, itchy scalp or not. There are some really nice essential oils out there that can be very beneficial to your hair and skin. If your itchy scalp is being caused by dryness, a hot oil treatment will do wonders; especially olive oil. Just massage the oil into your scalp and hair then cover with a plastic cap. Keep it on for 25 minutes then wash off. This will increase moisture as well as blood flow, leading to a healthier head of hair.
Aloe Vera
What would life be like without a little aloe vera here and there or everywhere? When it comes to scalp itch, feel free to reach out for aloe vera. The natural gel from this plant is known for its soothing properties. All you have to do is apply the gel, leave it on for about 45 minutes then wash your hair normally. My guess is that the itch will be gone.
Lemon Juice
Massage some juice from a fresh lemon (not store-bought lemon extract) onto your scalp; let it stay for 3-5 minutes then rinse and wash with your usual shampoo. Remember to not leave it on for too long otherwise, it might cause scalp irritation.
Apple Cider Vinegar
This is probably one of the best home remedies for itchy scalp. ACV is known to contain anti-inflammatory qualities. So if you think your itchiness is caused by some inflammations, just dilute the ACV with water then apply it on your scalp. Rinse after 10 minutes, and then listen carefully to your scalp.
Finally, if your symptoms feel more severe, do not self-diagnose. Consult a certified dermatologist and tell her all about your itchy issues so that he/she can tell you the possible cause, and the best treatment. As for the above home remedies for itchy scalp, what works for Gina might not work for Mona or Amina because we all have different lifestyles and skin types.
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6 Comments
Really helpful, thank you! The last 3/4 days my scalp has been so itchy and flaky even after washing!
Hi,
All home remedies are super. I tried everything but no use still am having itching. What should i do
Hi Luna, happy to help… Hope your scalp will stop annoying you 😉
Thank you so much ive had an really itchy scalp resently and from luck you posted about how to treat one!
My pleasure… I also get an itchy scalp occasionally, which can be a tad bit irritating 😉
Hi Emily, if it’s so bad we would suggest you consult a dermatologist …