Dry Scalp: Top Tips for Healthier Hair

E very woman would love to have beautiful and healthy hair.  But every woman has to know that hair doesn’t come in a different package.  Want to know the secret to beautiful and healthy hair?

It starts from a healthy scalp.  If you’ve a healthy scalp, it means that the hair that grows from it’ll definitely and absolutely be healthy, too. So how do you keep a healthy hair and scalp and how do you get rid of dry scalp if you already have it?  Read on to get some ideas.

• Just like the rest of your skin, your scalp also gets clogged.  Normally when that happens, the hair follicles get clogged too, causing the hair to be as dry as your scalp.  And just like your skin, your scalp needs to be exfoliated.  This relieves your scalp of all the heavy and possibly harmful chemicals from all the daily products you use.
• Your scalp needs to breathe.  If you need to get rid of dry scalp, cut down on the excessive use of hair products that load your scalp with elements that make your scalp dry and itchy.
• Dry scalp will just grow dry hair.  If you want to get rid of dry scalp and make sure that it grows healthy hair, you can take additional supplements that will aid in providing the proper nutrition to your scalp.  However, this doesn’t mean that you can neglect your diet.
• Limit the number of times you shampoo your hair to 2-3 times a week.  Daily shampooing can strip off your scalp’s natural oils, making it dry and itchy.
• Avoid brushing the scalp while wet.  The scalp and hair are at their weakest when wet.  Brushing while wet promotes damage and hair breakage.
• Indulge yourself in a scalp treatment at least once a week.  Whether you use natural treatments or you opt for a salon scalp treatment, you deserve it.  Your scalp deserves it.  A relaxing scalp treatment will certainly help get rid of dry scalp.
• Never tie your hair while it’s wet.  When hair is tied while it’s wet, it traps moisture inside, which makes it an easy target for bacteria to breed and multiply.  Never forget that bacteria can also cause dry scalp.  Avoiding bacterial and fungal infections on your scalp will help get rid of that dry annoying scalp.
• Lower the temperature of anything used on your scalp.  The high temperature of the water, blow dryer, or any other hair tool can be extremely drying to your scalp and destructive to your hair.
• Protect your scalp from the sun’s UV rays.  Wear a hat or any protective gear when exposed to the sunlight.
• If all else fails and you cannot get rid of your dry scalp, consult with your doctor to determine your next course of action.  Never self-medicate as this may worsen your scalp condition and damage your hair permanently.

Stop These Daily Routines to Get Rid of Dry Scalp

Many aspects of your daily life play a very important role on your overall being – that includes the health status of your scalp.  If your scalp is dry and itchy and is becoming really embarrassing and annoying, it may be caused by a lot of factors.

One of the factors may be your daily beauty routine that you think works for you but actually creates more damage than you can imagine.  To get rid of dry scalp, you can simply avoid some of the common daily habits that you do that damage your scalp and your hair.

Here are some of them:

Taking steamy hot showers

Everyone knows how soothing and relaxing hot baths are, especially after a long and stressful day.  But do you know that hot water strips off the natural oils of your scalp, making it dry and itchy?  If you want to get rid of dry scalp and you can’t take this off your daily to-do list, then just take the temperature down a few degrees.  You can still take a warm bath and make sure to rinse your hair with cool water.  This will definitely alleviate the itchy feeling and help get rid of that dry scalp.

Too much shampooing but no conditioning

If you think that shampooing all the dirt away from your scalp helps, you’re right.  This daily cleansing activity can help get rid of dry scalp.  But do you know that too much shampooing can actually cause dry scalp?  You see, shampoo contains chemicals that wash off the natural oils from your scalp and hair, making them dry.  If you want to get rid of dry scalp, you can shampoo every other day but condition your hair daily.  Conditioning your hair, whether you’re using natural products or manufactured hair conditioners, will help keep moisture on your scalp. 

Daily use of blow dryers

Just like taking hot showers, blow drying your hair daily can take its toll on your scalp.  The scorching temperature from your hair dryer can have a drying effect on your scalp and hair. Try to avoid using hot styling tools so often as well.  If you can’t totally avoid using these tools, then limit your use to at least two or three times a week.  And if you really must blow dry, use the coolest setting.

Too much exposure to the sun

Prolonged exposure to the UV rays of the sun can cause damage to your skin and your scalp.  If your daily routine involves getting exposed to the sun a whole lot, then at least try to prevent too much exposure by wearing a protective hat.  This will lessen the harm that the sun’s rays can give you.

Drinking too much coffee, but not enough water

The damaged cells in your scalp can’t repair themselves if they are dehydrated.  There are women who find it difficult to drink water, which is the main reason why their skin and scalp are dry.  If you want to get rid of dry scalp, just drink water.  You’ll see the difference when you try it!

Dry Scalp – What Your Body is Trying to Say

[dropcap]Y[/dropcap]ou will find a lot of articles about ways to get rid of dry scalp, but do you actually know what it is?  Do you know its symptoms, causes, and what your body is trying to tell you when you’ve dry scalp?

This is important information you’ve to know if you want to know how to effectively get rid of it.  Let’s start!

What is dry scalp and what are the symptoms?

This is the condition of the scalp when it loses its natural moisture and it leaves the scalp dry and sometimes flaky.  Moreover, another embarrassing symptom is itchiness on the scalp that may cause discomfort and embarrassment.

What causes dry and itchy scalp?

There are internal and external factors that causes it.  Knowing these factors will tell you exactly how to get rid of it and make the necessary adjustments in terms of the treatment and remedies you need to do.

Internal factors such as aging, hormonal changes, skin conditions, and the stress you feel play a big role on the condition of your scalp.  External factors such as weather or temperature changes, medications, hair products used, eating habits, and other lifestyle factors that directly affect your health can also have a great impact on your scalp. 

What are the remedies and treatments to get rid of dry and itchy scalp?

Your dry and itchy scalp is your body’s way of telling you that you’re doing something wrong or you’re lacking moisture on your skin and that you’ve to actually do something about it.  Here are some basic remedies to get rid of dry and itchy scalp.

• Start by making sure you eat healthy.  A dry and itchy scalp means you need the help of foods packed with all the needed nutrients to get the circulation of blood flowing through your skin and alleviate the dryness.  Your diet affects your health – and that includes your scalp.
• Practice a healthy lifestyle – free of vices that dry out the skin.  Smoking, for example, is something that is dangerous for you and the rest of the people around you.  Smoking (yes, this includes second- and third-hand smoking) is extremely drying to your skin and your scalp.  Your body can’t take that smoke and is in desperate need of clean air to get it breathing properly.
• Cut down on your hair treatments.  There are harsh chemicals that can be really hard on your scalp.  If it’s what’s causing your scalp to dry, then you know you may be doing more harm than good to your body.  While I understand you may just want to cover your gray hair, chances are that the products you’re using may be doing damage to your scalp more than you can ever imagine.
• Take time to relax.  In this busy world, one of the many reasons for dry scalp is stress. Take a break, get a relaxing massage, and just slow down and take things easy.

So are you ready to listen to what your body is trying to tell you?

Scalp Problems Every Woman Should Learn About

[dropcap]P[/dropcap]erhaps one of the most neglected parts of the body is the scalp. Not very women take notice of their scalp conditions. Some women do find ways to get rid of dandruff fast. However, most women do not. Oftentimes, when women already have symptoms that their scalp isn’t okay, that is when they research how to get rid of dandruff, or perhaps they call their dermatologist for advice.

But dandruff isn’t the only skin condition that is happening on the scalp. There are more. Therefore, one should not only focus on getting rid of dandruff. Here are some of the common scalp problems that each woman should take note of: 

Seborrheic dermatitis

Many women often mistake this scalp condition as dandruff. Perhaps this is one of the reasons why they would rather search for ways to get rid of dandruff instead of doing research on other scalp problems. Seborrheic dermatitis actually looks like dandruff gone amok. You’ll have the same symptoms as having dandruff. You can have the flaking of the skin as well as the itchiness. Aside from these two, you can also have inflamed skin.

Although it’s best to consult a skin doctor, there are some over-the-counter topical creams that you can also apply to the scalp. You just need to take note of the ingredients such as selenium, salicylic acid, and resorcin.

One way to reduce the worsening of your condition is to use clean combs and brushes whenever you comb your hair.

Tinea Capitis

More commonly known as scalp ringworm, this contagious disease is caused by a fungus. Like the common ringworm, scalp ringworm also forms circular patches. There are also some instances where the patches become scaly, which can cause dandruff-like symptoms.

Like the other scalp condition, women also mistake this as dandruff. They may even research ways to get rid of dandruff fast, thinking that it’s dandruff. Since this condition is highly contagious, washing hands after touching the scalp that is infected with tinea capitis is highly recommended. You may also need to use your comb so as not to infect somebody else.

Psoriasis

This is another condition that women often mistake as dandruff. But, in comparison with the other two, this condition is auto-immune. This means that the body itself is creating the condition. Dry skin with scales is one of the common symptoms of psoriasis. Since scaling is also predominant, many women use ways to get rid of dandruff because some of the cures are also effective.

But if you go to your dermatologist, there are some creams and lotions that your doctor can recommend. Some other skin doctors will even suggest injections and phototherapy. However, if you’re looking for an all-natural oil that can alleviate the pain and scaling, you can always use argan oil as well as coconut oil.

There are many scalp problems that every woman should take note of, not just dandruff. You should always consult a skin doctor to know what the best solutions are, rather than searching for ways to get rid of dandruff all the time. What do you think?

Eating Healthy to Keep Dry Scalp Away

D ry scalp can be related to weather changes, exposure to heat, or use of harsh soaps and other hair products.  Additionally, dry scalp can also be an effect of lack of healthy eating habits.

If you lack nutrients and the essential fatty acids that are needed to hydrate the scalp and skin, then you’re likely to experience dry and itchy scalp. If you want to learn how to naturally get rid of dry scalp, you can start by including the following foods in your daily diet.

Foods rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Dry scalp usually signals your body’s deficiency in essential fatty acids.  Try eating foods that include tuna, salmon, pumpkin seeds, walnuts, canola oil, and soybeans.  These foods are packed with Omega-3 Fatty Acids that help by keeping your skin and hair hydrated.

Foods rich in Vitamin A

Vitamin A is also important.  Vitamin A plays a big role in the proper maintenance and function of the skin cells and the circulatory system.  Foods such as carrots, liver, dairy products, eggs, squash, sweet potatoes, papaya, and peaches are great sources of Vitamin A.  These foods have proven to be very effective at supplying the needed nutrients to maintain a healthy skin and get rid of dry and itchy scalp.

Foods rich in Zinc

Zinc is essential for skin health.  The skin benefits of Zinc include renewal of skin cells, healing of wounds and other skin issues, soothing the skin tissue by acting as an anti-inflammatory agent, and preventing hair loss.  Eating foods rich in Zinc will definitely help get rid of dry and itchy scalp.  Foods that offer Zinc are whole grains, poultry, seafood, and nuts. 

Foods rich in Vitamin C

Vitamin C takes care of proper blood circulation to the scalp, which also aids in getting rid of dry scalp.  Other than the obvious skin benefits that Vitamin C brings, it also protects the body from immune system illnesses and cardiovascular diseases.  You can get your dose of Vitamin C from citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruit, and kiwi.  You can also get it from vegetables such as broccoli, baked potatoes, and tomatoes.

Foods rich in Vitamin B-Complex

Vitamin B-Complex is known for its health and beauty benefits.  As for the beauty benefits, Vitamin B-Complex promotes healthy skin by correcting the damage caused by free radicals – the molecules that contribute to dry skin and scalp.  To get rid of dry scalp, eat foods such as green leafy vegetables, beans, meat, eggs, and dairy products.

As you know, poor diet can affect your overall being.  Being conscious about the foods and the nutrients they offer can play a big role in making sure that your overall health is in excellent condition.  Sure, there are plenty of products that offer great results, but the best way to combat dry scalp and other health issues is to start by eating healthy.

DIY Hair Masks To Treat Dry Scalp

D IY hair masks are the best remedies to get rid of dry scalp without worrying too much about your expenses.

If you’ve annoying and embarrassing dry scalp and are in desperate need of treatments or remedies, then here are some simple DIY hair masks you can concoct in your own kitchen.

Avocado scalp saver

Avocados are packed with healthy fats that moisturize and help get rid of dry scalp.  The other ingredients included in this hair mask are also filled with moisturizers, antioxidants, and a whole lot of nutrients that are great for that scalp problem.

You’ll need – avocado, argan oil, honey, and tea tree oil.

Mash up one whole avocado.  Add 10 drops of argan oil to the mashed up avocado.  Put in 2 tablespoons of honey and add a few drops of tea tree oil.  Mix them all together until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.

Apply this mask directly onto your scalp.  Apply evenly and massage your scalp using the pads of your fingers for a more soothing effect.  Keep massaging for 10 – 15 minutes.  If you’ve extra mask, you may apply it onto your hair, too.  Rinse your hair thoroughly and be ready for its soothing effect on your scalp! 

Refreshing strawberry mask

Strawberries have awesome cleansing properties and vitamins and minerals that will help get rid of dry scalp and dry hair.  Egg yolk also has great health and skin benefits.

You’ll need – 200 grams of fresh strawberries, olive oil, and egg yolk.

Mash the strawberries or blend them using a blender for even consistency.  Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and mix it well.  Finally, add one egg yolk to complete your hair mask.

Apply the mixture starting from your scalp and all the way to the tips of your hair.  Put on a shower cap and leave it on for 20 – 30 minutes.  Rinse thoroughly and enjoy a fresh and dry-free scalp.

Soothing banana mask

Application of banana on skin and scalp helps keep them in great condition.  Bananas are loaded with nutrients that are necessary to get rid of dry scalp.  They are great moisturizers and are awesome for a glowing skin.  To help that scalp problem, try this mixture:

You’ll need – bananas, honey, and almond oil

Peel off the banana and add 2 tablespoons of honey.  Also add a few drops of almond oil.  Mash and mix them all together until you get a creamy texture.

Apply the mixture onto your scalp and all over your hair.  Put on a shower cap and allow it to set for 20 minutes.  Rinse hair thoroughly and get pleasure from a well-moisturized and itch-free scalp.

What are you waiting for?  Try these natural ingredients that work wonders on your scalp and your hair!

3 Simple Home Remedies to Get Rid of Dry Scalp

Y our excessive exposure to hair products can take its toll on your scalp and your hair.  Despite claims of nourishing elements that prevent dry scalp, extensive use of shampoos, conditioners, and other hair products can actually strip the natural moisture off your hair and your scalp, making it dry and itchy.

If you want to know how to get rid of dry scalp, here are some home remedies that you can try:

1. Hot oil treatment

Many women just go to their local salons to get hot oil treatments.  You can actually just do these simple yet effective steps at home.  To effectively get rid of dry scalp, prepare virgin coconut oil with olive oil.  Coconut oil is one of the best natural ingredients that help get rid of dry scalp and is an excellent hair conditioner.

• Put virgin coconut oil in a saucepan and warm it up.
• Remove the pan from the heat and check the temperature of the oil to make sure it isn’t too hot for your scalp.
• Add about a tablespoon of olive oil for better results.
• Apply on damp scalp and hair, making sure all sections are covered.
• Massage thoroughly, working your way from roots to tips.
• Wrap your hair in a shower cap and leave it on for 30 minutes.  If you use a heating cap or steamer, let it stand for 15-20 minutes.
• Wash and rinse thoroughly using warm water. 

2. The lemon treatment

I’m sure you’ve heard of the extraordinary uses of lemon.  And yes, they are also very effective in getting rid of dry scalp as they provide the skin and the hair the kind of nourishment needed.  Use only moderate quantities of lemon juice to get rid of dry and itchy scalp because excessive amounts and application can damage the hair roots.

*Note:  Don’t apply lemon on broken or irritated parts of the scalp as it may aggravate the problem.

• Extract juice from lemon and mix it with a little bit of honey to moisturize the scalp.
• Massage the mixture onto your scalp for 10-15 minutes.
• Rinse thoroughly.

 3. The avocado-banana duo

This recipe is great for getting rid of dry and itchy scalp because it works as a deep conditioning treatment for your scalp and hair.  This can definitely moisturize your scalp, leaving your hair looking healthy and soft.

• Blend 2 ripe bananas and 1 ripe avocado.
• Shampoo your hair to get rid of any dirt or other hair product residue.  Towel dry.
• Apply the mask starting from your hair to your scalp.
• Wrap your hair in a shower cap and let it sit for 20 minutes (or longer depending on your preference).
• Rinse thoroughly and make sure that you leave no residue of the mixture on your hair.

If you’re one of those women who refuse to apply any chemicals in their hair, then these simple steps should help you get rid of dry scalp and say goodbye to those itchy days.

Summary: Top Tricks to Prevent and Get Rid of Dry Scalp

When your hair takes a beating from all of your habitual beauty practices, your scalp also suffers.  And when your scalp isn’t in good shape, you’re in danger of experiencing an annoying itchy and sometimes flaky scalp, which eventually results in dry hair.

Here are some tips that will help prevent and get rid of dry scalp.

Avoid exposure to hot water showers

If your scalp is dry, this might be one of the reasons why.  No matter how soothing hot showers may feel, hot water strips off your scalp’s natural oils.  If you want to prevent (if you don’t have it yet) or get rid of dry scalp without compromising a relaxing shower, then go for warm water instead.

Massage your scalp

As simple as it sounds, massaging actually helps by stimulating the blood flow in your scalp.  When your scalp gets the proper blood supply it needs, all the necessary nutrients get to all the cells and follicles, making them work at their best in ensuring a healthy scalp.  Oh, and don’t forget the relaxing and stress-relieving effect that a scalp massage offers!

Shampoo less

Lathering up on shampoo every day has similar effects as washing your hair with hot water.  It shreds the lipids off your scalp and aggravates the dryness you may already be experiencing.  If you’re really into getting rid of dry scalp, try shampooing your hair just 3 times a week so you can restore the moisture back to your scalp.

More Conditioner

 While shampooing more causes damage to your scalp and your hair, conditioning more provides your scalp the hydration it needs.  It’s recommended to condition daily and you can also consider a deep conditioning treatment once a week just to pamper your scalp and your hair.

Choose the right hair products

The amount of hair care products you dump on your scalp and your hair can already take its toll on your poor scalp.  It can cause even more damage if you’re applying products that contain harsh chemicals.  To help get rid of dry scalp, go for products that contain natural ingredients and essential oils that will be good for your scalp.

Cut down on the use of hair dryers 

Using a blow dryer set extremely high can burn your scalp and cause it to dry.  If you must use a blow dryer, then make sure to have it on a medium or a low setting.  Better yet, just ditch the blower and go for air drying.

Above all, never forget your daily dose of needed nutrients

If you work on getting rid of dry scalp by starting within, your body is likely to produce better results.  There’s nothing better than making sure you take in foods that are rich in all the needed vitamins and minerals that will help you get that healthy scalp!