Many people have problems with dry scalp especially in the winter, when the skin is exposed to dry and hot indoor air, and because of the great temperature differences. The scalp feels tight and itchy and there are flakes of skin falling during combing or brushing, leaving unattractive “snow” on the shoulders.
Many people mistake dry scalp for dandruff, and treat it accordingly, which is wrong. Products that aim to remove dandruff are not suitable for dry scalp skin and can make it even worse.
The flakes of dry scalp skin occur when the area around a hair strand is not lubricated sufficiently by the sebaceous glands.
A healthy scalp is the key for nice looking, healthy and shiny hair. Dry air and pollution use up all the moisture and dissolve the protective oils, leaving the scalp dry and itchy and the hair looking dull and weak.
It is vital to massage a conditioner gently after each shampooing. The conditioner is important for the scalp, not only for the hair. A clarifying shampoo should be applied on a weekly basis. It helps remove the buildup on the hair and removes the dead skin flakes as well.
It is crucial to avoid heat. This goes for indoor air as well, for water used for washing and for blow dryers. High temperatures destroy the natural moisture of the skin and the protective oils.
One cup of warm water with two or three tablespoons of white vinegar used as a final rinse, will make the hair shiny and soft and will help with dry scalp issues.
Also, it can be helpful to gently massage the scalp with some table salt, just before shampooing with an acid-based shampoo.
Olive oil has many health benefits and it is also widely used in cosmetics. Of course, it is best if used in its natural form instead of in products. An oil treatment, in which olive oil is massaged into the scalp that is then covered with wet towels for 20 minutes, is a method that will both soothe the dry scalp and give an extra shine and softness to the hair. It also helps with hair that breaks and falls off.
As for nutrition, vitamins B and C are important for a healthy scalp and hair.
There are many essential oils that are proven to be beneficial for dry scalp issues.
Zinc Pyrithione treats many skin disorders, including seborrhea, psoriasis, eczema and dandruff.
Jojoba oil is an excellent moisturizer, just like tea tree oil. Lavender soothes the itch and can be even used against lice. Lemon is a natural way to get highlights, it hydrates the scalp and dandruff. Basil, chamomile and clary sage are also good.
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