Shampoos containing salicylic acid (Jason Dandruff Relief Treatment Shampoo, Baker P&S, others). Learn why it happens and how you can treat it at home. There are a litany of high-quality (but still affordable) products aimed at treating a dry scalp. How to Treat Dandruff. Product buildup can cause the scalp to become oily." Look for hair care products labeled as nonirritating, and fragrance-free products, which can be helpful for those with sensitivities. Whats more, going fragrance-free might help manage eczema symptoms, as fragrances are known for causing flare-ups of the condition. It's a common but uncomfortable moment: You scratch your head to soothe an itch, only to find endless flakes that land on your shoulders and beyond. Dandruff may be caused by a variety of factors, including a yeastlike fungus, scalp irritation, and skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema, which can lead to dryness and flaking in your eyebrows, face, or ear canals in addition to your scalp, she says. JAK inhibitors are helping patients with alopecia areata, eczema/atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and vitiligo. Make sure your product contains 95% aloe vera. Red light therapyhas been used to treat irritation and inflammation in the face, so it's easy to see where it may be helpful for similar scalp issues as well. It's often be treated at home. Oily, large flakes that are yellow or white, the use of products that strip the natural oils from your skin. Sophia Emmanuel is an IAT-certified trichologist and licensed cosmetologist based in New York. Like other forms of dry skin, this can cause itching, flaking, and irritation. So whether youre dealing with dandruff or product buildup (looking at you, dry shampoo), theres a way to manage it. Apply this shampoo only to your scalp area and leave it on for at least five minutes before rinsing (take this time to shave your legs or scrub your body!). "Alcohol will dry the scalp a lot," says Friese. Some hair stylists can perform a scalp treatment that uses steam to deliver more moisture to your scalp. Like what you just read? It may be tempting to take matters into your own hands by scratching or attempting to mask the issue with products, which may make matters worse. Heres What Pros Think, Allan Avendao, a.k.a. On the other hand, dry skin happens when skin loses too much water. If thats not possible or if the rash is hard to cope with, you can: In severe cases, several rounds of oral steroids may be needed. How To Get Rid Of Dry Scalp: Causes, Treatments & Prevention - Afrocenchix Dry scalp can often be flaky and itchy, and it's one of the most common problems that many people face. 2017;19(1):70. doi:10.3390/ijms19010070, Nayak BS, Ann CY, Azhar AB, Ling ECS, Yen WH, Aithal PA. A Study on Scalp Hair Health and Hair Care Practices among Malaysian Medical Students. 7 . As such, they require their own set of treatments. Dry Scalp Causes & How To Treat It, Explained By Experts - Glamour UK If you are experiencing similar and sometimes overlapping symptoms, Deirdre Hooper, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in private practice in New Orleans, says its important to differentiate mild dry skin or dandruff from other skin conditions so that you can get the treatment you need. Some hair care products can dry and irritate the scalp by stripping the natural oils from your skin. Dandruff vs. dry scalp: Causes, treatment, and prevention Use a cool compress on the area to relieve itchiness and pain and to prevent yourself from scratching. To revisit this article, visit My Profile, thenView saved stories. For dryness or contact dermatitis, choose shampoos with milder surfactants, or cleansers, that wont strip the skin of natural oils, she says. Atopic dermatitis, also called eczema, is a skin condition that can cause itchy inflammation of the skin. Shock requires immediate medical attention. If you have a dry, flaking scalp, you may suspect dandruff. "It boasts antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.". In this case, your dermatologist can help pinpoint the problematic ingredient(s) and help you find the right hair products to avoid it. A dry scalp can be the result of many things, including using a harsh shampoo, sensitivity to fragrance, low humidity in the air, taking long or hot showers, certain medications, hormonal changes, and advanced age. Causes, symptoms, and more to look for to get rid of dryness in the scalp. Infections, skin injuries, some medications, and lifestyle factors such as drinking alcohol or smoking are common triggers for psoriasis. Immunol Allergy Clin North Am. "Treatments for actinic keratoses include topical medications such as 5-fluorouracil (a chemotherapy agent) or imiquimod (an immune response modifier), or procedures such as minimally invasive cryosurgery (liquid nitrogen), which destroy precancerous cells," she says. Follow her on Instagram @daniellesinay. Find out what may be causing the itch and what can bring relief. Dermatologists team up to improve patient care, JAK inhibitors: A newer type of medication, Free materials to help raise skin cancer awareness, Dermatologist-approved lesson plans, activities you can use. For more stubborn dandruff, a doctor can prescribe a stronger shampoo or a topical steroid or topical antifungal. 7 of the best treatments for dry scalps by Michelle Kemp, Regulatory Affairs Associate 15 Mar 2022 Save Article Your scalp probably isn't high on your list of beauty priorities because it's hidden away beneath your hair. What to look for: According to Dr. Tzu, symptoms of tinea capitis include scaly patches on the scalp, usually combined with patches of hair loss (or broken hair shafts). A dry scalp means the surface layer of skin cells on your scalp is compromised, allowing moisture to escape. When a dry scalp is due to psoriasis, the joints may also be affected, a condition called psoriatic arthritis, says Dr. Lipner. If you're looking for relief for your dry scalp, we've got you covered. It's time to mix up your scalp care routine. We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. Avoid triggers as best you can to help prevent flare-ups. "If your scalp is extremely dry, it may help to wash less frequently, maybe every other day instead of daily," Marcus shares. On the scalp, skin may appear scaly and red, or a lighter color than the surrounding skin. I recommend Living Proof Scalp Care Dry Scalp Treatment, formulated with hyaluronic acid to amp up hydration and vitamin B3, which helps to rebalance your scalps natural ecosystem, she explains. Reaction to a hair care product. Theres some evidence that ultraviolet (UV) light exposure can help control dandruff. While theyre probably not dangerous, certain topicals, like apple cider vinegar, can be harsh and may cause irritationnot what you want right now. She is based in the Chicago suburbs and is a mom to two little boys and rambunctious rescue pup. Massaging your scalp can provide many benefits. There are various reasons why your scalp may be dry. Avoid using hair products that contain harsh chemicals, such as bleach and alcohol. .css-1pm21f6{display:block;font-family:AvantGarde,Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;font-weight:normal;margin-bottom:0.3125rem;margin-top:0;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}@media (any-hover: hover){.css-1pm21f6:hover{color:link-hover;}}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-1pm21f6{font-size:1rem;line-height:1.3;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1pm21f6{font-size:1rem;line-height:1.3;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1pm21f6{font-size:1.125rem;line-height:1.3;}}Martha Stewart, 81, Swears By This $20 Luminizer, Drew Barrymores Favorite Summer Beauty Product, The Bikini Trimmers Youll Actually Want to Use, Kerry Washington Loves This Game Changer Retinol, Jennifer Garners Go-To Moisturizer Is On Sale. Theyre also all easy to find in drugstore shampoos, including the following: Theres a method to washing with anti-dandruff shampoos. Eczema Types: Contact Dermatitis Diagnosis and Treatment. 16. Keep reading to learn eight dry scalp treatments dermatologists swear by. Although dandruff flakes may look alike, they can be caused by different types of scalp disorders. For a dry, itchy scalp, try nonprescription medicated shampoos containing zinc pyrithione (Head & Shoulders, others), ketoconazole (Nizoral, others), selenium sulfide (Selsun Blue, others) or coal tar (Neutrogena T/Gel, others). Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. However, if you find that you have a sensitive scalp and have trouble finding products, there are also natural and DIY alternatives. But first, you'll want to pinpoint the underlying cause of dry skin on the scalp. Remedies for Dry Scalp Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors Medically Reviewed by Debra Jaliman, MD on December 20, 2022 Remedies and Treatments for Dry Scalp When to See a Doctor Dry. Most people will have to manage symptoms over the long term. Try every other day at first (some people may be able to extend it to every three to four days), adds Dr. Mehlis. Dandruff and dry skin can show up on your scalp in similar ways, which can make it tricky to tell the difference without a dermatologists help. Mousse, in particular, is often a sneaky culprit, she adds. Most of us only tend to only pay any attention to our scalp when it's acting up. 2020;47(9):998-1006. doi:10.1111/1346-8138.15428. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Other symptoms include fatigue, swollen fingers and toes, morning stiffness, and nail changes. A dermatologist is a medical doctor who specializes in treating the skin, hair, and nails. Immunosuppressive medications may be needed to dampen the immune response. Hence, psoriasis is generally considered to be a genetic disease that is triggered by other factors," says Dr. Del Campo. Shamban recommends that you massage your scalp with your fingertips nightly, but you can also consider an in-showerscalp massagerto use when you shampoo. Do you have an itchy, dry scalp? Cover the head with a plastic cap for 30 minutes to 1 hour. Your favorite acne-fighter may do wonders for your dry scalp too. All rights reserved. How Do You Treat A Dry Scalp And Oily Hair? - Stylecraze What Type of Dandruff Is Causing Your Flaky Scalp? Dandruff is a very common condition that often comes and goes. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Dandruff and dry scalp have the same main symptoms, which are falling flakes and an itchy scalp, but theyre two different conditions. A few DIY options include hair masks with moisturizing ingredientsany combinations of milk, honey, coconut oil, avocado, says board-certified dermatologist at Art of Skin MD, Dr.Melanie Palm, MD. Not Detoxifying Your Scalp? You Should Be - InStyle If you go with a scalp treatment, Tanzi recommends letting it sit for a while prior to rinsing. Coconut oil, apple cider vinegar, and aloe vera are all ingredients that Friese suggests are good for calming a dry, inflamed scalp and minimizing flakes. How To Treat Dry Scalp | Be Beautiful India | Be Beautiful India 2023 Hearst Magazine Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff: A comprehensive review. "To reduce dry scalp, avoid products with harsh ingredients. Washing your hair very frequently strips your scalp of the natural oils present on the scalp, leaving it super dry - yes, that's true. However, Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Biotin Dry Shampoo ($25) is a game changer. Medically reviewed by Dr. Sameeksha Chand, MBBS, MD DVL By Anjali Sayee May 8, 2023 Evidence Based Save Image: Shutterstock Dry scalp and oily hair are underrated hair trouble. Certain skin conditionsincluding the fungal infection ringworm or conditions like eczema or psoriasiscan also zap moisture from your scalp, says Dr. Lipner. Dr. Hooper says dandruff can usually be improved by using dandruff shampoo, and a dry scalp by switching to a gentle, non-medicated shampoo. You get dry scalp when your skin has too little moisture. If youre experiencing an allergic reaction as opposed to product buildup, however, be sure to swap out your usual hair care products with gentler alternatives, says Dr. Rubin. There are many causes for scalp flaking and itching, the most common being everydaydandruff, followed by seborrheic dermatitis andpsoriasis. If you continue to have problems after trying any and/or all of the above remedies, it might be advisable to go in and see a dermatologist for a prescription. Finally, if you have dandruff, Dr. Robinson recommends opting for an over-the-counter shampoo formulated with salicylic acid to address the condition. Dry scalp is. However, they can also be priceyand they probably wont make much of a difference, says Dr. Mehlis. Best for Scalp Psoriasis: Krastase Initialiste Advanced Scalp & Hair Serum. Dry scalp is caused by a lack of moisture in the skin while dandruff is caused by an excess of oil on the scalp and an overgrowth of Malassezia yeast. Eczema Types: Contact Dermatitis Signs and Symptoms. Int J Trichology. Too much sun exposurewithout the proper protectioncan burn your scalp, resulting in irritation and (you guessed it) dryness. It can. We avoid using tertiary references. Dry scalps can benefit from added moisture in the form of an oil treatment. Dandruff shows up as small pieces of dry skin flaking off your scalp, and it may be itchy. Use a cool compress on the area to relieve itchiness and pain and to prevent yourself from scratching. Most dandruff shampoos contain medication that kills the fungus on your scalp or removes flaky skin. Eczema Types: Contact Dermatitis Diagnosis and Treatment. Weather can also dry your scalp in low humidity and cold climates. Our experts caution that several conditions may appear to be dry scalp but are actually something more serious. Management of scalp psoriasis: current perspectives, Scalp Pruritus: Review of the Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Management. If the scalp seems dry, limit the number of times the hair is shampooed per week and opt for a co-wash instead. If you dont have dandruff but your scalp dryness seems to be taking over, it may be time to look at your shower routine as a whole. Does a Mayonnaise Hair Mask Have Any Benefits? Psoriasis also commonly contributes to scalp itching, Caroline Robinson, MD, FAAD, a board-certified medical and cosmetic dermatologist, tells Glamour. The HydraFacial Keravive will clean the scalp, infuse moisture, and seal in nourishment to help heal and calm a dry, itchy scalp, Shamban explains. These products help eliminate scaling. Dealing with dry scalp? Aloe has also been shown to improve the function of the skin barrier, which is the uppermost layer of skin designed to lock in moisture while keeping out bacteria and other pathogens. Heres what you need to know. I also recommend Nutrafol Stress Reliever Scalp Microbiome Essence, a gentle after-shampoo essence that soothes a dry scalp with prebiotics., Assuming your scalp itch is the result of product buildup, managing the symptoms is as simple as modifying your scalp care routine. Dandruff flakes are bigger, and they look oily. And we're not referring to forgoing that glass of wine with dinner. In babies with cradle cap, their scalp looks scaly or crusty. "Make sure not to use too much product when styling the hair. One way to tell whether you have dry scalp or dandruff is to apply a light moisturizer to your scalp before you go to bed. To revisit this article, select My Account, thenView saved stories. You may want to change your hair care products. (2021). Dealing with dry scalp? LED light treatments are popular for their use on the face to treat a variety of concerns. While still in your warm, steamy bathroom post-shower, massage three to five drops into your roots and work gently down through your ends. She has been educated in both psychology and journalism, and her dual education has given her the research and writing skills needed to deliver sound and engaging content in the health space. What can you do about it? If you have dry scalp, wash with a gentle shampoo and then use a moisturizing conditioner. You can apply a gel or moisturizer with aloe vera to your scalp. Scalp Care 101: Understanding the Scalp as Skincare Trend, Why Your Scalp Is Dry + Itchy and How to Fix It. Dry scalp can also be triggered by factors such as these: cold, dry air contact dermatitis caused by a reaction to products you apply to your scalp, such as shampoo, styling gel, and. Irritation and itching can leave you miserable, but our picks for the best dry scalp shampoos can offer some relief. If you have what feels like razor bumps or acne on the back of your neck or scalp, you may have acne keloidalis nuchae. Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils. Best Itchy Scalp Treatments and Products of 2023 - Oprah Daily Natalie tried many acne products without success. The 25 Best Scalp Products & Treatments to Soothe Dryness - Allure The solve for a dry scalp is relatively easy (moisturize!). Ringworm may look like itchy, scaly, and bald patches, while eczema that affects the scalp can come with dandruff, itching, and redness. Ordinary's Natural Moisturizing Factors + Hyaluronic Acid Scalp Serum, Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo, The effect of a scalp massage on stress hormone, blood pressure, and heart rate of healthy female. If your scalp seems to grow accustomed to your dandruff-fighting shampoo, switch to another product with a different active ingredient. Mahmood T, et al. Cetearyl Alcohol: What You Need to Know About This Common Ingredient, Everything You Need to Know About Exfoliation for Your Scalp, 7 Avocado Hair Masks That Nourish and Hydrate. I will often treat my patients with dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis, a more severe form of dandruff, with prescription topical anti-inflammatory solutions and prescription shampoos to gain control, she says. This formula also . Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Baby Dry Scalp: Causes, Home Remedies, When to Seek Help - Healthline Dandruff cannot be cured, but its symptoms can be managed with a specialized shampoo. Not only does it hydrate dry skin, but it also promises to restore a balanced pH and promote future hair growth. Dandruff vs. Dry Scalp: Here's How to Tell the Difference and Treat Use an Oil Treatment Dry scalps can benefit from added moisture in the form of an oil treatment. Definition Causes Treatment Vs. dandruff Prevention Seeking help Summary People can have dry. You dont want to get too much sun exposure, though, because it can increase your risk of skin cancer. Make sure to rinse out all the shampoo. 2018;14(Suppl 2):52. doi:10.1186/s13223-018-0281-6, Kostner L, Anzengruber F, Guillod C, Recher M, Schmid-Grendelmeier P, Navarini AA. American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD). During this process, your skin cells turn over on a regular basis or turn over faster in response to inflammation. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Psoriasis (Auckl). What to look for: If you have scalp psoriasis, you may have it in small areas; however, it can also cover your entire scalp. The signs and symptoms may be more severe if you're stressed, and they tend to flare in cold, dry seasons. The answer is probably no since it would leave your skin more prone to breakouts and extremely dryand the same goes for your scalp. Translation? Its infused with white charcoal, which the brand says helps to detoxify your scalp for a much deserved refresh. Dandruff is a common condition that can cause the scalp to become dry, itchy, and flaky. She adds that harsh products with chemicals, excessivesulfates, or fragrances can create dryness and the same effects. Youll love our magazine! An itchy, dry scalp is typically not serious, but if you have intense itching and dryness with flaking skin, make an appointment with your healthcare provider. Unless you have greasy hair, you can try to shampoo a little less often. Knowing which of these conditions you have can help you get the right treatment and banish those flakes for good. When you have dandruff, skin cells on your scalp shed more quickly than usual. But dry scalp and dandruff arent exactly the same thing. It's itchy, irritating, and dandruff flakes on shoulders has never been a good look! Follow up with your regular conditioner. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol. Dandruff is known to cause white, oily flakes, but it can also cause your scalp to feel itchy. Dealing with dry scalp? Burning does not occur in all cases of eczema, but itching is a near-universal symptom. If you suspect you have a health condition that's causing your dry, itchy scalp, see your doctor for an official diagnosis before trying any of the following: Some ways you can prevent a dry scalp include the following: Moisturizing shampoos that contain natural and gentle ingredients are the best choice for a dry, itchy scalp. Use oils that can help relieve scalp dryness and itchiness, such as coconut oil, jojoba oil, tea tree oil, and avocado oil. Shampoo 101: Choosing the Right Shampoo for Your Hair Type, LEARN ABOUT BYRDIE'S EDITORIAL GUIDELINES, Scalp Revival Charcoal + Biotin Dry Shampoo. Treating dandruff with a special shampoo can manage your condition and prevent itching and flakiness. Other ingredients that can be irritating to the scalp include sulfate, menthol, and eucalyptus. Dry scalp and dandruff might seem similar enoughsymptoms for both include dry, itchy, flaky, skinbut they are not, in fact, the same. "A dermatologist may prescribe a topical steroid to help control flaking on the scalp," Marcus shares. National Eczema Association. As much as we love our dry shampoo, too much of anything is hardly ever a good thing, and the same goes for our product addiction. Other causes, like dandruff or dermatitis, require more tedious treatments. According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, dandruff is a chronic conditionoften considered to be a mild form of seborrheic dermatitisthat waxes and wanes over time. Environmental aggressors also play a role in your scalp's health. The effect of a scalp massage on stress hormone, blood pressure, and heart rate of healthy female. This will limit the action of the immune system and thus reduce symptoms. Treatment may be required for severe cases. Still, if your dry scalp is caused by an allergy or seborrheic dermatitis (aka dandruff), you'll need to resort to another fix. These medications work by using ingredients such as salicylic acid and vitamin D to soften dry patches on the skin. "There can be inflammation (pink skin) or itchiness, as well." Dandruff shows up as small pieces of dry skin flaking off your scalp, and it may be itchy. Oh, and were on Instagram too. Dr. Tzu warns that tinea capitis can continue to spread across the scalp and cause additional hair loss if not stopped in its tracks. The most common reason for a dry scalp is seborrheic dermatitis, also known as dandruff, says Dr. Lipner. When it comes to scalp dryness, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Ava Shamban says all of the associated conditions involve some form of dysregulation of skin cell turnover and low sebum production. It can also make the scalp more sensitive to sunlight. How to Treat an Itchy Scalp, According to a Dermatologist - Men's Health Eczema on the scalp can affect people of all ages. Sunburns need to heal on their own and typically do so within a couple of weeks. With dandruff, the cause is too much oil on your scalp along with an overgrowth of yeast, called Malassezia, thats already on your skin. In addition, cold, dry hair can exacerbate a dry, flaky scalp, dermatologist Elizabeth Tanzi tells us. Infusions of coconut oil, candelilla wax, and chamomile blue oil help calm irritated skin, while naturally forming salicylic acid softens buildup pre-cleanse and helps to reduce scaling on thescalp, says King. Genetic predisposition (such as fair skin, red or blond hair, and family history) can also factor in," she explains. If dandruff is the root cause, antifungal shampoos are going to be your best bet for dealing with scalp dryness, says Jules Lipoff, M.D., assistant professor of clinical dermatology and board-certified dermatologist at the University of Pennsylvania. A doctor or healthcare professional will determine whether you have dandruff by looking at your scalp and hair. Knowing which type of dandruff you have is key to, A mayonnaise hair mask is touted as an alternative hair treatment that can potentially leave your strands soft and smooth. But dry scalp is also a very common problem, and there are plenty of dry scalp treatment options out there that can help. It's important to ensure you know what you're dealing with, as certain scalp conditions require prescription medication or creams for effective treatment. Dry Scalp: Causes and How To Treat, According to Dermatologists - Byrdie She owns and operates the. We tapped top dermatologists to break down the possible causes behind your discomfortand the remedies that will bring relief ASAP. Some hair oils contain ingredients, likerosemary oil, which may also have added benefits like promoting hair growth in addition to hydration. That excess oil causes skin cells to build up and then shed. Jen Garner Uses This Great Oil for Glowing Skin, 12 Korean Sunscreens to Add to Your Beauty Bag, Eva Longoria Opens Up About Cosmetic Treatments, 13 Best Scalp Sunscreens to Prevent Sunburn. Got a dry scalp? If you find that your scalp is sensitive or easily irritated, consider switching to more gentle hair products. However, if you are facing chronic dry scalp, it's worth seeing your dermatologist to confirm your diagnosis. With dandruff, the cause is too much oil on the scalp. How To Get Rid Of Dry Scalp: Causes, Treatments & Prevention - Afrocenchix The skin on your scalp gets irritated and flakes off. Kim I-H, Kim T-Y, Ko Y-W. There are a number of scalp-specific beauty products you can buy that claim to use topical moisturizers, like hyaluronic acid, to hydrate the area. 11 of the Best Dry Scalp Shampoos - Healthline