Contents
Overview
Do your scalp make you pleased? Nowadays, many people consider itchy scalp as an ashamed issue for not only in communication but also in other activities in daily life. Although it is not serious, it makes people unable to focus on something, as the itching of their scalp makes them crazy. Many people attempt to avoid itchy scalp in many ways, especially buying exorbitant medicine; however, these are all useless. Do not give up! Have you ever tried any home remedies for itchy scalp? If not, read our writing in Beauty Talk to gain more knowledge to take care of your scalp.
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I. What Are The Causes Of Itchy Scalp?
Itchy scalp is a common phenomenon that can affect everyone. Nevertheless, if this problem happens for a long time, it is likely to have other implicit diseases. So, what are the leading causes of itchy scalp?
- Fungi: The itch of your scalp is the germ of fungus. When the fungus appears on your scalp, it starts to harm the outer skin layer and your hair. Moreover, the spreading of fungi is uncontrollable, leading to the increasing of dandruff. The more you scratch, the more dandruff will fall, which makes people think that you have not washed your hair for a month.
- Dying hair: Para-phenylenediamine (PPD) found in hair dye is the outstanding ingredient leading to the negative effect on your scalp. PPD may bring about a wide range of reactions from the mild skin irritation to more severe allergic contact dermatitis. These symptoms only happen when the hair dye is fully oxidized – a long time after you dyed, so you should be careful to choose the most appropriate hair dye for your hair.
- Shampoo: Many people think that the reason for itchy scalp is too lazy to wash the hair. In some cases, however, despite washing hair 3 times a week, this issue still occurs. The real cause is that you choose inappropriate shampoos, such as poor quality shampoo or a shampoo not suitable for your scalp, leading to dandruff and itchy scalp.
- Environmental factors: Other factors like dirty home, pillowcase, hat, etc. can be the reason. If you don't clean these things often, it may receive the bacteria from the environment and directly affect your scalp. It is better for people to use private items alone instead of sharing them with your family or friends, as you may be infected with infectious diseases related to the scalp.
II. Home Remedies For Itchy Scalp That Work Really
1. Lemon
Used widely in cooking, lemon is a familiar ingredient in every corner of the kitchen. Nevertheless, in terms of treating the itchy scalp, lemon also plays an important role. With a tremendous amount of acid, especially citric acid, lemon helps remove dandruff[1] and restore the affected areas in the scalp by balancing the pH. The pH level and vitamins such as vitamin C and B in it may also supply the essential substances to the scalp, make your hair healthier and grow faster[2].
However, “Citrus fruits such as lemons may result in allergic reactions in a few people. Reactions may include skin allergy and migraine. Allergic reactions to citrus fruits are seen in people allergic to pollen, in a phenomenon called cross-reactivity. Other people get an allergic reaction after contacting with citrus fruit peels.” (To find out more side effects of this ingredient, you may read the article of 14 Unexpected Side Effects Of Lemon On Health & Beauty. This article was medically reviewed/ fact checked by Dr. Sarah Brewer MSc.)
Method 1:
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Process:
- Press the lemon to let the juice out
- Wet your hair with water
- Scrape the lemon peel which you’ve just used into your scalp
- Use the lemon juice to rub on your hair and your scalp
- Wait for about 10 minutes
- Leave it off with water
Do this method twice a week.
Method 2: Lemon and yogurt
Ingredients:
- ½ cup of fresh coconut milk
- Two tablespoons of yogurt
- Two lemons
- A glass
- A satin bonnet
Process:
- Squeeze the lemon to take a tablespoon of lemon juice
- Mix the juice, coconut milk, and yogurt to get a soft paste
- Apply the mixture to your scalp
- Cover your hair with a satin cloth
- Wait for about 30-45 minutes
- Rewash your hair with lukewarm water
Do this method twice a week.
2. Onion
You can get a large number of benefits when using onion as an ingredient for treating itchy scalp. The antibacterial properties in onion[3] [4] may not only fight against dandruff but also prevent fungal development. Furthermore, the flavonoids present in onion may avoid some inflamed areas by fighting free radical damage. More importantly, the researchers have found that the onion may prevent head cancer. Apart from removing the itchiness, onion juice may also thicken your hair[5].
Ingredients:
- Onion
- Honeybee
- A ripe banana
- A blender
- A cloth
Process:
- Wipe out the outer layer of the onion and cut it into small pieces
- Put them in a blender to have a thick paste
- Take the paste in a cloth and squeeze it out to have a tablespoon of the onion juice
- Mash the ripe banana to have a paste
- Add the honeybee and the onion juice into the banana paste
- Apply it to the scalp for 10-15 minutes
- Leave it off with the shampoo to remove all the smell
Do this method daily.
3. Aloe Vera
Known as the “King of Herb” for many years, aloe vera has many functions for the skin, hair, and scalp. There are more than 75 different nutrients, including minerals and vitamins. The antibacterial properties in aloe vera[6] may fight off infection, remove dead tissue, heal the affected areas, and restore the cells in your scalp. Moreover, the aloe vera will supply sufficient water and keep your scalp moisturized every time, which is the best way to reduce dandruff[7]. Typically, there are not any side effects when using aloe vera as an ingredient for itchy scalp, notably for the sensitive hair. You can follow these techniques with aloe vera below.
Process:
- Shampoo your hair to remove the dirt or oil from the scalp
- Wipe out the outer of the aloe leaf to get the gel
- Rub the gel into your scalp and massage thoroughly
- Wait for 20 minutes
- Remove with cold water
If you don't have time to do this home remedy, you can buy the shampoo containing aloe vera in the store or supermarket, such as Aveda smooth infusion shampoo, Aubrey Organics J.A.Y desert herb shampoo, Lily of the Desert Aloe 80 Organics Shampoo, etc.
4. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is the best ingredient in supplying sufficient water for your hair and keep it moisturized. Therefore, we can create a barrier to fight against dandruff[8] [9] or scratching all the time. Besides rich in antioxidants, coconut also has antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties, which fight against infections and kill the viruses, bacteria, etc. caused by fungus or harsh chemicals and support your hair growth. A study shows that coconut oil also reduces inflammation and pain, beneficial in cases of dandruff caused by psoriasis and other skin issues[10]. What is more, the smell of coconut oil is very comfortable, which makes coconut oil one of the best choices for itchy scalp ingredients.
Process:
- Mix half a cup of coconut oil with one teaspoon of peppermint oil
- Apply the mixture to the scalp and massage your scalp
- Cover your hair with a satin cloth
- Wait for about 45-60 minutes
- Rewash your hair with shampoo and warm water carefully; otherwise, your hair will look oily all the time.
You can also try this remedy before going to bed and leave it overnight to get the visible result. Remember doing this once to twice a week.
5. Avocado
With a wide range of vitamins and minerals, avocado aids in relieving itching. According to the International Journal of Trichology study, the minerals present in avocado oil may help seal cuticle cells, which may avoid hair breakage. Avocado also considers a superfood in supplying water for the hair. It always keeps your scalp moisturizing and prevents the dry one, the major reason for itchiness. Moreover, in some countries, the seed of an avocado is used as one of the best natural dandruff treatments in curing itchy scalp. A study in 1998 found that aloe vera helps resolve the scalp inflammation due to dandruff[11]. The fatty acids in the aloe vera have anti-inflammatory values.
Method 1:
Ingredients:
- An avocado
- Ten drops of argan oil
- Two tablespoons of honey bee
- One-three drops tea tree oil (it’s up to the thickness of your hair)
Process:
- Wipe out the skin of an avocado
- Put the avocado to mash it until we have the soft paste
- Add three oils above to the avocado paste and mix them well
- Rub the mixture on your scalp
- Massage thoroughly and wait for 15-20 minutes
- Rewash with shampoo and conditioner
Method 2:
Process:
- Mash two bananas and one avocado
- Rub it into your scalp and massage gently
- Leave it for about 30-45 minutes
- Rewash your hair with cold water and shampoo
- Do this frequently.
You can combine with eating some avocado or avocado smoothie every day to see better effects.
6. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a condiment made from apples. The antimicrobial in apple cider vinegar[12] is the highly efficient substance to control and get rid of the bacteria or fungi. Apple cider vinegar is particularly effective in reducing scalp itch related to psoriasis[13]. Moreover, the pH may also help you to maintain the pH in your scalp and bring back the natural beauty of the hair. The hair that looks dull or frizzy tends to be more alkaline or higher on the pH scale. In contrast, the acid substance, like apple cider vinegar, helps lower pH level and bring healthy hair. Furthermore, apple cider vinegar is the best ingredient to stimulate hair growth, prevent hair fall, and add more shine to your hair.
Method 1:
Process:
- Mix 1/4 cup of organic apple cider vinegar into a cup of water.
- Stir it well and pour this into a spray bottle.
- Spray this mixture into the scalp and the hair.
- Massage for a few minutes
- Rinse your hair with warm water and rewash with the shampoo.
- Repeat this home remedy frequently.
Method 2:
Process:
- Heat some drops of olive oil for a few seconds and then let it cool to reach room temperature.
- Apply the oil to your scalp
- Massage gently.
- Wait for about 30 – 45 minutes and then comb your hair.
- Mix the apple cider vinegar into the water to wash your hair (the amount of water is up to you)
- Let it dry naturally
Repeat this method until the itchiness in your scalp disappears.
III. What To Do To Prevent Itchy Scalp From Recurring
We have just given you some outstanding recommendations about the home remedies for itchy scalp. The itchiness is long-lasting, so you need to be patient to follow. Besides trying our remedies, you should combine with some prevention and a healthy diet to get better results.
1. Alter Your Shampoo
Are you using proper shampoo for your scalp? There are 4 kinds of the scalp, including dry scalp, oily scalp, normal scalp, and combination scalp. Each type needs a particular shampoo. For instance, the ones who own oily scalp should use shampoos labeled “balancing” or “clarifying” because they will help you balance the oil in your scalp and the hair. On the other hand, it is better for people to use the shampoos which provide enough moisture and nutrients for scalp if they have a dry scalp. Therefore, when buying the shampoo, people should consider thoroughly and change another one in case you use the wrong shampoo for your hair.
2. Drink Water
Water accounts for 70% of our body weight[14] and plays a vital role in our scalp. It's the most crucial element in hydrating and maintaining proper functioning of the skin cells. If you don't drink enough water, your skin cells will dry up and flake, which will bring about the itchiness and irritation. Furthermore, it may damage your scalp and make it more vulnerable, causing dandruff and some other diseases. When the scalp is damaged, there will be some impacts on your hair, such as hair fall or weak hair. So, remember to drink at least 2 liters of water every day to keep your hair and your scalp healthy.
3. Wear A Cotton Hat
We can not deny the uses of the hat in daily life. It not only keeps us warm or protect the hair from UV rays but also makes people look more fashionable. However, some people prefer wearing hats all day regardless of being indoors or outdoors. A study showed that wearing hats for a long time may prevent the growth of your hair[15]. The tight hat may keep the oil at the hair roots and leave the hair ends dry. When the hair gets greasy, the follicles cannot absorb the nutrients, and your hair will be the ideal places for feeding bacteria and fungi, leading to itching. Therefore, if you are really into wearing the hat, choose the hat made from cotton and make sure to clean it frequently.
4. Healthy Diet
Some newspapers indicate that itchy scalp may result from the lack of fatty acids from your diet[16]. You should give a try to foods rich in essential fatty acids, such as salmon, tuna, pumpkin seeds, canola oil, etc. What is more, it is beneficial to eat foods that contain a large number of vitamins because they will support your immune system and maintain the function of the skin cells. The foods containing a high amount of vitamins are vegetables and fruits such as kiwi, strawberries, whole grains, potatoes, beans, etc.
5. See A Doctor
In case you try all remedies and apply some recommendations we suggest, but the itching goes on happening, you should go to see a doctor to check your scalp condition. The sooner, the better your itchy scalp treatment. If you hesitate to go to the hospital, your disease can be more serious and lead to other diseases.
All in all, itchy scalp is a common phenomenon, so people do not need to worry much when facing up with it. Trying the natural home remedies for itchy scalp needs a lot of time and patience, so you should not give it up. You can visit our page Hair Care containing a wide range of information to help you own strong and healthy hair. In case you have any queries about this writing, comment on the box below so that we can help you immediately.