Dry scalp is the result of severe dehydration. It is easy to confuse it with dandruff because it has similar symptoms, including flaking, but its treatment is different. In this note, we tell you the causes of dry scalp and how to treat it.
Dry scalp: symptoms
One of the most common symptoms of a dry scalp is a feeling of tension. The scalp feels stiff, tight, and limp, just as if it has been burned in the sun.
Another common symptom is an itchy scalp. If you feel that urge to scratch, even when you’re sleeping, it may be from a dry scalp. Irritation or redness when washing or combing hair is also part of this set of signs.
And finally, the flaking. Small, dry, white scales often come off when scratching or combing. Therefore, it is very easy to confuse a dry scalp with dandruff.
Difference between dandruff and dry scalp
As we said, dry scalp can present flaking similar to dandruff. In fact, dandruff is one of the consequences of a dry scalp. However, there is a difference between dandruff and dry scalp.
When we talk about dry hair, we refer to a severe dehydration problem derived from multiple factors linked to health and lifestyle. Instead, dandruff is a condition triggered by a bacterial and fungal reaction, by excess oiliness or lack of hydration.
Causes of dry scalp
Many factors can dry out the scalp. To easily identify and eradicate them, trichologists divide them into two groups: internal and external agents.
Internal causes
Internal causes are those that are related to the integral functioning of the body. Among the most common are:
- Physical or emotional fear and stress.
- Hormonal changes.
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Genetic predisposition.
- Atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.
- External causes
External factors, on the other hand, are related to adverse processes or conditions to which the scalp is directly subjected, including:
- Discoloration and dyeing.
- Excessive use of heat tools.
- Environmental pollution.
- Sudden changes in temperature between each season.
- Use of unsuitable products and accessories.
Dry scalp treatment
Natural remedies for dry scalp
Masks with natural ingredients are great allies to combat dry scalp and provide it with the hydration it needs. They can be incorporated into the care routine as a weekly treatment and even increased to twice a week. Of course, it is necessary to supplement with suitable products for daily washing.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil is a food rich in nutrients, vitamins, and antioxidants natural moisturizing agent. Apply 3 or 4 drops of pure coconut oil and distribute it on the scalp, doing a capillary massage. You can even leave it on overnight. It not only fights dry scalp but also prevents the appearance of dandruff.
Aloe vera
Aloe Vera, the gel of aloe vera, contains a lot of water, hence its moisturizing power. This natural ingredient helps to keep the natural oils of the scalp in their proper measure and, thus, end dryness. How to use it? I extracted the pulp of the aloe vera leaf, mix it in a bowl with a little treatment cream, the one of your preference. Apply the mixture evenly over the entire head (important: pay special attention to the scalp). Let it act for 15 minutes and rinse.
Avocado
The avocado in the hair provides its natural oils to nourish, revitalize the hair and protect it from hair loss and hair whitening. I extracted the pulp from a ripe avocado, tread it and mix it with two tablespoons of olive oil. Before applying it, I moistened the hair. In doing so, do a hair massage. Leave on for 15 minutes and rinse with plenty of warm water.
Banana
We all know the benefits of the banana. But few know what a banana hair mask can do. End of the mystery: it is a deep moisturizer. In fact, it also works as a natural conditioner. To make the mask, you have to mix two ripe bananas, three tablespoons of honey, 2 tablespoons of coconut oil, and two tablespoons of non-dairy milk, whichever you have. You can also add a little water to dilute if you think it’s necessary. Apply to all hair and leave on for 30 minutes. Rinse with plenty of water and wash as usual.