Dryness of the scalp is usually determined by the production of a fatty lubricant known as “sebum” in our scalp which moisturizes both hair and the scalp. The production of sebum varies among individuals and depending on the amount you have either a dry, oily or a normal scalp.
Dry scalp may lead to severe dandruff accompanied by itchiness as it is devoid of moisture and other nutrients. Caused by several factors such as allergy, poor diet, certain skin conditions and harmful chemicals present in shampoos, dry scalp is also breeding ground for viruses and bacteria if left untreated for a long time. However, no worries as dry scalp can be easily treated at home using simple home remedies, effective and easy to follow.
Remedies For Dry Scalp
Honey And Milk To Moisturize The Scalp
Vitamin D milk is preferable for treating dry scalp problems. Vitamin D treats dry scalp due to poor diet and also lends good luster and texture to your hair. The soothing property of milk is very effective for dry scalp.Again, the natural moisturizing properties in honey make it a useful ingredient in most of the remedies for dry hair, scalp and other beauty solutions.
Honey works great for face and hair skin. In half cup of Vitamin D milk combine 1/4th cup of honey. Apply the mixture on your scalp and gently give a massage. Leave it for 2 hours at least. Enjoy its soothing affect on your scalp after the application.
Aloe Vera Gel To Treat Scalp Infections
Aloe Vera has curative properties that help to cure scalp infections and encourages skin health. It also stimulates the oil glands and boost oil secretion if hampered by any skin infection or disease. Application of aloe gel is one of the best curative remedies for dry and itchy scalp.
Cut an aloe leaf into half and remove the gel. Apply the gel on the scalp with the help of finger tips and let it stay for 30 minutes. Aloe gel will effectively soothe dry scalp and cure infections, if any. Alternatively, you can massage aloe vera juice to moisturize dry scalp and it doesn’t leave hair oily that we hate.
Massage Works
Massaging works wonder both for dry scalp and hair. Massage stimulates the sebaceous gland to produce more natural oil and encourages blood circulation to the scalp.A combination of oils is preferable to have the maximum benefit. Olive oil, jojoba oil, almond oil and coconut oil are good for scalp massage. To increase the effect you can give a hot oil treatment to your hair using these oils. Use any or a combination of the oils and warm it up.
Now use your finger tips or a cotton ball to apply the warm oil to your scalp. Warm oil penetrates the scalp more easily and alleviates dry scalp. You may cover up your head with warm towel to increase the oil penetration. It would also make up for the lack of natural oil secretion by the oil glands. Let it stay for at least 1 hour or more and wash off with mild shampoo, preferably herbal. Hot oil massage is one of the oldest and trusted remedy for dry scalp.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar cleans up resides that built on your hair and gives relief from the conditions of dry scalp. Take 1/4th cup of apple cider vinegar and add 1 teaspoon of honey and 2 drops of any herbal oil such as lavender to it. Apply the concoction on your scalp thoroughly. Allow the solution to sit on your scalp for at least 1 hour, more is better. You will get great results after washing it off. Practice this remedy 2 times a week for guaranteed results.
Shea Butter
Shea butter is known for its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties that work effectively on dry scalp. Take a bowl of shea butter and heat it up. Then add 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil and 1 cup of olive oil to the butter.
Stir well. Once it cools, apply the mixture evenly on your scalp and cover your head with a warm towel. Wait for 30 minutes and wash off with a gentle shampoo. Use this natural dry scalp remedy twice a week.
Diet For Dry Scalp
A poor diet deficient in vitamins may also lead to dry patches and scalp. So increase intake of Vitamin B, C and E. Deficiency of Zinc also leads to dry scalp. Add more leafy vegetables to your diet. A glass of bitter gourd juice every morning is said to be beneficial for any kind of hair problems.
Include halibuts, dried oregano, flaxseed, asparagus and strawberry in your diet. These foods aids in the treatment of dry scalp. Cut acidic foods, caffeine, and alcohol from your diet to maximize the benefits of the remedies. Dry scalp is also caused by dehydration. So drink 8 glasses of water daily to decrease dehydration from your body.
Other Home Treatments Or Dry Scalp
Take half cup of yoghurt and add half cup of extra virgin oil and two teaspoons of honey to it. Massage the mixture on your scalp thoroughly and let it stay for 1 to 2 hours. Wash off with a gently shampoo followed by a hair conditioner. This is a great remedy for dry patches.
Preventive Tips
Avoid hot showers as it may result into dry and flaky scalp. Also, after washing your hair dry it in natural air. Avoid hair dryers as they tend to dry out the scalp very easily. If it is absolutely necessary hold your dryer a little far from your scalp so that the effect of the dryer is minimal on your scalp.Avoid any harmful cosmetic products such as hard hairstyling gels, dye or hair colors. They may worsen the condition.
Nobody would like to take chances when it comes to hair. Home remedies are the safest treatments and do not cause side effects. You may alter the remedies and see which one work perfect for you. If problem persists consult a dermatologist.
