Losing skin cells from our body and scalp is a completely natural part of our daily lives. In order for our bodies to produce new, healthy skin, we first must shed the old cells. However, it can be problematic and tedious when dealing with extreme flaking and itchiness.
What is Flaky Scalp
Whether it is the products you’re using or your scalp producing excessive oil, flaky skin can be a result and can lead to intense discomfort and itching.
Flaky scalp is very common and can be caused by many things including:
- Humidity
- Change in weather
- Eczema
- Allergic reactions to hair care products
- Not washing your hair enough
- Washing your hair too often
- Stress
- Cold weather
- Dehydration
- Not rinsing out shampoo thoroughly
- Chemical hair treatments
Sometimes it’s difficult to differentiate between flaky scalp, dandruff, itchy scalp, and other similar scalp problems. Here are some common symptoms of a flaky scalp to look out for.
Note that some of the conditions we listed may have the same symptoms and causes.
- Oily hair and scalp
- Small or large dry flakes that are either white or yellowish in color
- Itchy scalp
- Irritated scalp that may burn after excessive scratching
- Red skin
- Dry skin on other body parts
Home Remedies for Flaky Scalp
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of the symptoms we listed, here are some easy home remedies to reduce symptoms of flaky scalp.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is commonly used to treat dry, irritable skin, and your scalp is no exception. It can be found in many shampoos but if you really want to get the most out of this ingredient, squeeze it directly from the plant. Gently massage it into your scalp, rest, then rinse.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil contains antifungal properties that rid your scalp of unwanted product residue that can be the cause of a dry and flaky scalp. Tea tree oil is also an ingredient found in many hair care products. Use it as directed to moisturize your scalp before, during, or after a shower.
Apple Cider Vinegar
If the flakiness is causing excessive itching or vice versa, apple cider vinegar is your best bet. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, apple cider vinegar helps cool your scalp and relieve it of itchiness. Simply dilute a few teaspoons in water and massage your scalp with it, before rinsing it out completely.
Find more easy home remedies for itchy scalp here.
Install a Shower Filter
Chlorine strips your hair of its natural oils. By installing a shower filter that eliminates chlorine, you can ensure the water you shower in is clean and free of impurities, and other harmful chemicals that might be leading to dry skin and scalp. Pure Blue’s shower filter eliminates 98% of the chlorine and minerals in your shower water, keeping your scalp healthy and moisturized, and free of irritating flakes.
You can find more information about the causes, symptoms, and treatments for dry scalp here.
With these simple home remedies, flaking, itching, and scalp irritation will no longer be a problem.