Dandruff and Itchy Scalp
Dandruff forms as the result of a fungal infection of the scalp. As a consequence, the scalp begins to form white ‘flakes’that settle on the clothes, shoulders and face of the person suffering from dandruff. Dandruff also causes a severe itching sensation in the scalp and sometimes even causes skin inflammation and bleeding. Dandruff may either be waxy or dry, depending upon how it forms. Dry dandruff tends to be scattered loosely in the hair while waxy dandruff tends to mix with the sebum on the skin and sticks to the scalp or hair in patches. There may be several factors that contribute to the formation of dandruff. Some of these factors include yeast infections, poor nutrition, fungus, zinc deficiency and even the overuse of harsh, alkaline shampoos and soaps.
Tips and Home Remedies for Dandruff and Itchy Scalp
Symptoms of dandruff and an itchy scalp can be easily treated with the help of a few simple home remedies and hair care tips.
- Proper hair care is an effective means of preventing the occurrence of dandruff. Avoid using excessively hot water to wash your hair as this tends to make the scalp dry and prone to dandruff.
- Avoid using harsh soaps or shampoos to wash your hair.
- Choose your hair styling products with care to ensure that your dandruff is not an allergic reaction to harsh chemicals in your shampoo or other hair products.
- In addition to maintaining a proper hair care routine, you can try a few simple home remedies to help curb dandruff.Lemon is an excellent remedy for dandruff and an itchy scalp. Take a few lemon peels and soak them in a cup of coconut oil. Place this mixture in the sun for at least ten days and then strain it before applying it on your hair. This helps reduce dandruff effectively.
- Hot oil therapy is another effective means of treating dandruff naturally. Ensure that the oil is not too hot before applying it on your hair. Once you have tested the oil’s temperature, massage it into your hair and scalp. Do this before going to bed at night and leave it on until the morning.
- Before washing your hair the next day, apply some cosmetic vinegar and lemon juice on your scalp. After you have washed your hair thoroughly, rinse it using a cup of warm water and lemon juice. This should be done at least once a week for three months to help treat dandruff effectively.