If you’re like me, you enjoy the occasional itch on your scalp. It’s a minor annoyance that can easily be scratched and forgotten. But if you’re experiencing an itchy scalp regularly, it’s anything but enjoyable! Various issues can cause an itchy scalp, from dryness and seborrheic dermatitis to fungal infections and even lice. Fortunately, there are many effective remedies for an itchy scalp. This article will discuss six effective remedies for an itchy scalp on natural hair! We will also provide tips on preventing an itchy scalp from occurring in the first place!
The six most effective remedies for natural hair include:
- Apple Cider Vinegar
- Over-the-counter dandruff shampoo
- Itchy Scalp Treatment with Coconut Oil
- Essential Oils
- Clarifying Shampoo
- Thorough shampoo rinses
But before we dive into the remedies, let’s discuss what an itchy scalp is and some of its common causes.
What is an Itchy Scalp on Natural Hair?
Itching is the sensation that occurs when the skin is irritated or inflamed. Itching can occur on any body part but is most commonly felt on the scalp. It can be very mild, causing a slight discomfort or severe enough to interfere with daily activities. An itchy scalp is a common problem that various conditions can cause.
Causes of Itchy Scalp on Natural Hair
There are many potential causes of an itchy scalp. Itching may be caused by:
Itchy Scalp on Natural Hair Cause #1: Skin conditions
Scalp psoriasis is a common skin condition that can cause an itchy scalp. The common characteristics of scalp psoriasis include redness and scaly patches on the scalp.
Eczema is another common skin condition that can cause an itchy scalp. The common symptoms of eczema may include dry and irritated skin.
Itchy Scalp on Natural Hair Cause #2: Dry skin
Dry skin is a common cause of an itchy scalp.
Weather conditions like wind and cold temperatures can cause dry skin.
Using too much shampoo or not enough conditioner may also lead to dry skin and thus an itchy scalp.
Itchy Scalp on Natural Hair Cause #3: Seborrheic dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis is a common condition that can cause an itchy scalp. Symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis may include redness and scaly patches on the scalp.
The leading causes of seborrheic dermatitis may be an excess production of oil in the skin and a build-up of the yeast that naturally occurs on the skin.
Dandruff is a common symptom of seborrheic dermatitis.
Itchy Scalp on Natural Hair Cause #4: Allergic reactions to hair products
An allergic reaction to hair products is a common cause of an itchy scalp. Itching may occur immediately after using a new hair product or after using a hair product you have used for some time.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction include itching, redness, and scalp swelling. If you think you may be allergic to a hair product, stop using the product and see your doctor.
Itchy Scalp on Natural Hair Cause #5: Poor hair practices
Poor hair practices, such as not shampooing regularly enough or using harsh shampoos, can lead to an itchy scalp.
Hair products not rinsed out thoroughly can also cause an itchy scalp. Product build-up can also occur when you use too many hair products.
Poor hair practices may also include shampooing too often, which can strip the scalp of its natural oils and lead to dryness.
Itchy Scalp on Natural Hair Cause #6: Dandruff
Dandruff is a common problem that can cause an itchy scalp. The most significant symptom of dandruff is the appearance of white or yellowish flakes of skin shed from the scalp.
Itchy Scalp on Natural Hair Cause #7: Fungal Infections & Lice
Fungal infections, such as ringworm or candidiasis can cause an itchy scalp.
Ringworm is a common fungal infection that can cause an itchy, scaly rash on the scalp.
Candidiasis is a yeast infection that can cause an itchy, red rash on the scalp.
Lice are tiny insects that live on the scalp and feed on human blood. They can cause an itchy scalp and may be difficult to remove.
Itchy Scalp on Natural Hair Cause #8: Weather changes
Seasonal and climate changes can cause an itchy scalp.
For example, cold weather can cause dry skin, leading to itching.
Humidity can also cause an itchy scalp. It can make the scalp sweaty and more susceptible to fungal infections.
Dry air can lead to dry skin, which can cause an itchy scalp.
Itchy Scalp on Natural Hair Cause #9: Dietary changes
Certain dietary changes can cause an itchy scalp.
For example, not drinking enough water can lead to dry skin, which may itch.
Eating a high sugar diet can also cause an itchy scalp. Sugar can feed yeast and allow it to grow out of control. Overproduction of yeast can lead to fungal infections and an itchy scalp.
Dandruff vs. Dry Scalp
Dandruff or dry scalp can cause an itchy scalp on natural hair. However, these conditions do not always coincide.
Dandruff is the appearance of white or yellowish flakes of skin shed from the scalp. It could result from a build-up of oil and dead skin cells on the scalp.
On the other hand, a dry scalp is a condition in which the scalp is dry and flaky. It could result from harsh weather conditions, poor hair care practices, or a lack of moisture in the scalp.
Symptoms of Itchy Scalp on Natural Hair
There are several symptoms of an itchy scalp on natural hair.
- Irritated skin: The skin on your scalp may be red, swollen, or inflamed.
- Itching: You may feel a constant or intermittent urge to scratch your scalp.
- Flaking: Dead skin cells may flake off the scalp in small white or yellowish pieces.
- Hair thinning/hair loss: Itchy scalp can lead to hair loss due to excessive scratching or rubbing of the scalp. Hair thinning and hair loss can be temporary or permanent.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you must see a doctor to rule out any underlying conditions.
An itchy scalp can be a symptom of a more severe condition, such as seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis.
6 Effective Remedies for Itchy Scalp on Natural Hair
There are several treatment options for itchy scalp on natural hair.
#1. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a natural acid that can help balance the scalp’s pH. It can also help to remove build-up from the scalp and hair.
To use apple cider vinegar for an itchy scalp:
- Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water in a bowl
- Apply the mixture to your scalp with a cotton ball and let it sit for 15 minutes
- Rinse your scalp with warm water and shampoo as usual
You can also add a few drops of apple cider vinegar to your shampoo or conditioner to help prevent an itchy scalp.
Apple Cider Vinegar Itchy Scalp Treatment
Ingredients:
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup water
#2. Over-the-counter (OTC) dandruff shampoo
If you have dandruff, an OTC dandruff shampoo can help to control the symptoms. Look for a shampoo that contains selenium sulphide, zinc pyrithione, or ketoconazole.
These ingredients can help to reduce the amount of oil on the scalp and kill the fungus that causes dandruff.
Follow the instructions on the bottle and use the shampoo as directed. You may need to use it several times a week to see results.
Dandruff Itchy Scalp Shampoo
Look for ingredients such as:
- Selenium sulphide, zinc pyrithione, salicylic acid, coal tar, or ketoconazole
#3. Itchy Scalp Treatment with Coconut Oil
Coconut oil can help to moisturize the scalp and hair. It can also help to reduce inflammation and itching.
Coconut oil contains medium-chain fatty acids that can help to kill the fungus that causes dandruff.
To use coconut oil for an itchy scalp:
- Massage a small amount into your scalp
- Leave it on for 30 minutes and then shampoo as usual
- Repeat this several times a week until the symptoms improve
You can also add a few drops of coconut oil to your shampoo or conditioner to help prevent an itchy scalp.
Coconut Oil Itchy Scalp Treatment
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup coconut oil
Instructions:
- Massage into scalp and leave on for 30 minutes. Shampoo as usual. Repeat several times a week until symptoms improve.
#4. Essential Oils
Essential oils can help to soothe an itchy scalp. They can also help to reduce inflammation and kill the fungus that causes dandruff.
Tea tree oil, lavender oil, and rosemary oil are all effective essential oils for an itchy scalp.
To use essential oils for an itchy scalp:
- Mix a few drops of the oil with a carrier oil such as jojoba oil or coconut oil
- Apply the mixture to your scalp and massage it in
- Leave it on for 30 minutes and then shampoo as usual
- Repeat this several times a week until the symptoms improve
Essential Oil Itchy Scalp Treatment
Ingredients:
A few drops of tea tree oil, lavender oil, or rosemary oil
carrier oil such as jojoba oil or coconut oil
#5. Clarifying Shampoo
A clarifying shampoo uses a unique formulation to cleanse the scalp and hair. It is a magnet to draw out impurities such as dirt, oil, and build-up.
It will also get rid of:
- Chlorine
- Minerals build-up
- Hair styling products
- Dead skin build-up
- Conditioner and wax build-up
Massage a small amount into your scalp to use a clarifying shampoo for an itchy scalp. Leave it on for five minutes and then rinse with warm water.
Repeat this once or twice a month, depending on how often you apply hair products.
This type of shampoo can dry the scalp and hair, so it is essential to follow up with a conditioner. Use a clarifying shampoo once a week to help prevent an itchy scalp.
Ingredients to look for:
Water, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate, Cocamidopropyl betaine, Cocamide MIPA, Glycol Distearate, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate.
Popular Clarifying Shampoos:
#6. Thorough shampoo rinses
Thoroughly rinsing your hair is one of the most important things you can do to prevent an itchy scalp.
Shampoo can leave behind a residue that can irritate the scalp and cause itching. Be sure to rinse your hair until the water runs clear.
If you have hard water, you may need to use a chelating shampoo to remove the build-up of minerals.
Chelating Shampoos:
- Hard Water Shampoo
- Hairprint – Natural Plant-Based Chelating Shampoo
- Malibu C Hard Water Wellness Shampoo
The best way to treat an itchy scalp is to identify the underlying cause and treat it accordingly.
When to See A Doctor
You should see a doctor if you have an itchy scalp accompanied by other symptoms such as redness, swelling, or drainage. It could signify a more severe condition such as seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis.
If over-the-counter treatments are not working, you should also see a doctor. They may prescribe a medicated shampoo or cream to help relieve the symptoms.
How to Prevent Itchy Scalp on Natural Hair
There are a few things you can do to prevent an itchy scalp:
- Wash your hair regularly with a gentle shampoo
- Avoid using harsh chemicals and heat styling tools
- Massage your scalp with a mixture of essential oils and carrier oil
- Use a clarifying shampoo once a month to remove build-up
- Rinse your hair thoroughly after shampooing
- Use a soft brush or comb to avoid irritating the scalp
- Drink plenty of water and eat a healthy diet
- Manage stress levels
Bottom Line
An itchy scalp on natural hair can be a frustrating problem, but there are several things you can do to treat it.
An itchy scalp is usually not a severe problem with proper care and treatment. If over-the-counter medicines are not effective, see a doctor. They may prescribe a medicated shampoo or cream.
This article is for informational purposes and should not be taken as medical advice. If you have any concerns about an itchy scalp, see a doctor.
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