3 Ways To Treat Dry Scalp, Naturally

Dry Scalp can happen year round. But it’s more common in the winter. It’s characterized by loose, white, powdery flakes. Its cause is usually the result of dehydrated sebaceous glands (the glands that produce the natural oil for our scalps). This dehydration can be due to extreme climates, not drinking enough water or skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema.

Do you have extremely dry winter hair? Read: 4 Quick Ways To Revive Hair This Winter

Dandruff which is commonly confused with dry scalp is caused by yeast-like fungus called malassezia, also known as pityrosporum. Malassezia is normally found on the scalp without causing problems, however, if it grows unchecked (possibly due to hormone imbalances, stress, immune suppression, infrequent shampooing, illness, or increased oil production), there is mild inflammation that produces dead skin cells. The dead cells mix with oil and clump together, making them appear white and flaky. Sometimes the flake appear yellowish.

Both dry scalp and dandruff can be treated and prevented using these all-natural treatments.

Read: Knowing The Difference Between Dry Scalp and Dandruff

Use Natural Oils

During the winter, you may find that your scalp is drier than other times of the year and this is normal. The key to combating dry scalp is to incorporate natural oils into your hair care regimen.  Olive and coconut oil has anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties and they also absorb easily into the scalp.  Jojoba Oil most closely resembles sebum or the oily secretion of the sebaceous glands that acts as a lubricant for the hair and skin and provides some protection against bacteria.  Some other great oils are jojoba oil, coconut oil, olive oil and castor oil. Oils work best when sealing in moisture from water.

Read: The Benefits of Coconut and Olive Oil

Read: Best Oils for Hair Growth

Use Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar rinses are great as well. Mix a solution of 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar to 3 cups of water, pour into a spray bottle, saturate hair, cover with a plastic cap, and let sit for 20-30 minutes. “This will help with many irritating scalp conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and dandruff. It rinses out clean, removes product buildup, and also adds shine and restores the pH to the hair. A few drops of rosemary or tea tree oil will boost this rinse,” says Shera Lee, a Health Coach and Yoga Instructor. Those with a very sensitive scalp should use caution when  adding essential oils and may find comfort by increasing the amount of water used for the mix.

Read: Using Apple Cider Vinegar for Your Hair

Use Essential Oils

Peppermint Oil– The PH levels found in peppermint oil help balance out the dryness on the scalp while neutralizing oil production, providing quick relief from an itchy scalp. Read more…

Available at Amazon or Drugstore.com

Melaleuca  Alternifolia, or simply “Tea Tree Oil” is ubiquitous in shampoos and conditioners for this very condition in large part due to its highly antiseptic qualities. It’s a triple threat to scalp irritations because of its anti-fungal, anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties. Again, Tea Tree Oil should not be used full strength and is best when used with a carrier oil. Read more…

Available at Amazon or Drugstore.com

Additional Reading
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