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Shampoo for Dry Scalp

Aastha Dogra
Are you experiencing a dry scalp and are at a loss as to which shampoo to buy to cure this condition? Given here are few tips to consider while choosing a shampoo for dry scalp.
Dry scalp is a typical condition, where one feels itchy. This is experienced by people, especially in cold regions or during winters. It is observed that when people with a dry scalp, comb or brush their hair, tiny white flakes of dead skin come out and when they scratch, dry skin flakes are found in their fingernails, scientifically known as pruritus.
There are many hair care products available in the market such as moisturizers, lotions, conditioners, and shampoos for dry scalp treatment. There are a few things that should be considered when buying a shampoo for it, which are as follows.

Things to Remember

Mild Shampoo

Sometimes, this condition is caused by using a shampoo or a hair gel which has harsh chemicals. All detergent-based shampoos can be pretty hard on the scalp. If this is the cause, then switching to a mild shampoo will free the person off his problems.

Moisturizing Shampoo

Extremely dry scalp can be treated by using a moisturizing shampoo, followed by a moisturizing conditioner. A moisturizing shampoo will remove the dryness of the scalp and will also make the hair soft and manageable.

Shampoo Ingredients

Ensure that the shampoo you buy contains elements like apricot extracts, aloe vera, mint and almonds specially known to soothe the itchiness of dry scalp, besides removing dryness.
Those having "lock in moisture" properties are sea buckthorn and tea tree oils.

For Dandruff and Dry Scalp

It is observed that this condition is often mistaken for dandruff and the person starts using anti-dandruff shampoos to get rid of it. Following such treatments can make the condition of the scalp even worse. There are many shampoos in the market today that effectively treat both dandruff and dry scalp together.
Anti-dandruff shampoos are not that effective as when they are discontinued, the person starts experiencing dandruff again. The best shampoos to be used in such cases would be baby shampoos or some medicated shampoos which will treat both these conditions and would not be as harsh on the skin as the chemically rich anti-dandruff shampoos.

For Dry Scalp and Color-Treated Hair

Mild shampoos that contain tea tree oil are the best, as they do not strip the color off the hair. Sometimes, this condition could also be due to a reaction to some harsh chemical in the hair color. So, discontinuing hair color for a while and observing whether it gets cured by itself is a good idea too.

For Oily Hair and Dry Scalp

It is believed that oily hair is due to an oily scalp, but this is far from the truth. In fact, a dry scalp makes the oil glands produce even more oil. This excess oil on the scalp results in oily hair. So to treat oily hair, curing dry scalp first, is essential. Using mild shampoos, baby shampoos, and shampoos with tea tree oil are the best bet.

Homemade Shampoo

Shampoos for this can also be made at home. Just buy a mild shampoo and add olive, almond or jojoba oil , as they help in restoring the natural moisture balance. They can also be mixed with natural ingredients like catnip leaves, burdock root, peppermint, chamomile, thyme and elderflower, as these are known for alleviating this condition.
Certain home remedies for hair care, such as regular oil massages, steaming the hair, using warm (not hot) water for shampooing, applying a moisturizer, drinking adequate amount of fluids, and eating a healthy diet with all the required nutrients, are equally beneficial to treat this condition.
Disclaimer: This information is for factual purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.