Itchy Scalp Home Remedy

Itchy scalp can be caused by a number of conditions, from simple factors such as dry scalp, dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, to more serious ones, like scalp psoriasis, contact dermatitis, head lice infestation, scalp ringworm, tinea amiantacea, lichen planus, hair follicle inflammation, neurogenic excoriation, and pyogenic infection of scalp. It is important to identify the root of the problem. However, meanwhile you can try an itchy scalp home remedy that will help ease the discomfort.

One of the most common causes of an itchy scalp is dryness. We treat our skin to moisturizers on a daily basis, but neglect our scalps. Just as the dry weather sucks the moisture out of our skin, it does the same to our scalps. If dryness is the cause, then massage the scalp with oil (we recommend olive oil) before going to bed and leave it on overnight. Shampoo and condition your hair in the morning. Alternately, you could try an over-the-counter product that works as a moisturizer.

There are many people who find that dirty hair leads to itchy scalp. For some people, just the idea of their hair being dirty can trigger itchiness. However, while the exact mechanics of it is unknown, it's believed that dirt leads to blocking of pores, and a consequent build up of oils that annoys the scalp. Some people even develop pimples on their scalp from not washing it often enough.

Another possible cause of itchy scalp is, your skin being allergic to an ingredient in the hair care products you use. Your job here is to try to identify if the itching starts after the use of a conditioner, gel, shampoo, mousse or spray. If the itching is a recent development, then stop using the newest hair product you've been using. Try to use only one product per day till you identify the culprit. Styling products, hair dyes and colors have harsh chemicals that can affect sensitive skin, even if they don't cause an allergic reaction. Many products also advocate a patch test before use, which you should do to check your skin's sensitivity.

A very common cause for itchy scalp is dandruff. White flakes on your hair is an obvious indicator of dandruff. The best way to treat dandruff is with any of the myriad of over-the-counter products (creams, shampoos, etc) that you get for the purpose.

One of the home remedies for dandruff is to squeeze some lemon juice in a bit of oil and massage it onto your scalp. Keep it overnight and wash it off the next morning.

Most of us take adequate care of our skin while out in the sun and either cover up or wear sun screen, but once again we neglect our scalp. If you have spent several hours in the sun, without wearing a cap, chances are your scalp is sunburned. If you scalp feels tender or itchy, sunburn could be the cause. If this be the case, visit a dermatologist. A home remedy that might give you relief, from itchy scalp, under these circumstances, is the application of aloe vera gel scooped from the leaves of the plant.

Another possible cause of itchy scalp is lice. If you realize you have head lice, a home remedy is unlikely to get rid of them, so just use an over-the-counter product specially meant to get rid of lice. If you find an itchy scalp home remedy not working, and you have eliminated the above mentioned options, it is time to consult a dermatologist. If the problem is a more serious scalp ailment, the earlier you seek treatment, the better.

Disclaimer: This story is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.