Scalp becomes dry when it is unable to get enough moisture and hydration. This can cause itching, constant flaking, and irritation. It can likewise make the hair look dry since oil from the scalp helps condition the hair. Dry scalp is a very common problem in winters. Much like other parts of the body, the scalp naturally gets dry.
What is Dry Scalp?
When your scalp is excessively dry and has not been moisturized, the dry skin starts to peel off, causing flakes that may look like dandruff. Although a dry scalp is also susceptible to the growth of Malassezia, a yeast responsible for dandruff, which feeds on dirt on the scalp and causes the dead cells of the scalp to shed much faster than you can wash them away. People with dry skin are more inclined to dry scalp.
Causes of Dry Scalp in Winter
- Dry air, especially throughout the cold weather months if you are inclined to dry scalp issues. Make sure you wear a defensive cap or head covering when you are venturing out.
- Over-washing your hair can cause the essential scalp oils to be stripped off, causing an overly dry scalp. Do not wash your hair more than 3-4 times a week.
- Malassezia is a type of fungus that is found on the skin surfaces and feeds on the oils of the skin. It irritates the scalp and causes dry skin.
- The wrong hair products, if you are using some hair products that contain ingredients that can lead to an inflamed, itchy scalp.
- Shampooing your hair too often could also irritate the scalp further, causing dandruff, so we recommend to make use of Head & Shoulders shampoo instead, to soak up excess oils in your hair and keep your scalp dandruff and itch-free.
Pre-Wash Treatments for Scalp
● Scalp Massage
A scalp massage is the best way to look after a dry scalp before shampooing. Massage your scalp before washing to remove the build-up of oil, hair products and skin cells. It will lift away dirt and dust to distribute the natural oil from your scalp.
● DIY Hair Masks
Oil treatment for your scalp will help to deeply moisturize your scalp and lock-in that natural moisture balance. We suggest using oil as a highly effective intense natural conditioner for the hair and scalp. Rub directly onto dry scalp and hair, put a shower cap on and leave for a minimum of 45 minutes for a deep moisture mask.
Here are some home remedies for dry scalp
● Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera has a number of properties that can help with dry scalp. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce skin irritation, and it’s also an effective moisturizing agent. Apply aloe-vera directly onto your scalp and leave on for 20-30 minutes before shampooing.
● Lemon juice
Lemon juice is been known as an effective remedy against the dry scalp. The citric acid present in lemon juice helps fight dandruff from the roots, as it adjusts the pH of the scalp. Massage lemon juice onto your scalp with aloe-vera, oil, honey, leave it for 30-40 minutes and then rinse with anti-dandruff shampoo. You could also simply use Head & Shoulders Lemon Fresh Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, which cleanse your scalp and hair as well as give you an up to 100% dandruff-free experience in one wash.
● Neem
Neem is a traditional remedy to treat dry scalp. Neem oil is a natural substance extracted from the neem tree called Azadirachta indica which contains several fatty acids which is beneficial for hair as well as skin. Massage neem into the scalp and let it sit 30-40 minutes, rinse it with Head & Shoulders shampoo for best results. You could also eliminate the hassle of making the mask and then applying and waiting for it to work by simply switching to Head & Shoulder’s Neem Shampoo - an effective remedy for dandruff and germs on your hair and scalp.
Following Are Some Tips To Prevent Dry Scalp During Winters
1. Be careful of heating devices
Heating devices can cause dry scalp in winters. Devices like room heaters that we use in winter, really help to keep us warm. But in turn they increase the dryness around us. Winter is really bad for a dry scalp but the dryness from the heaters makes the scalp more dry, worsening the condition.
2. Hot showers
Everyone loves a hot shower. Especially in the winter. But hot water is harmful to the hair and even worse for a dry scalp. In the dry winter months, hot water only adds to the dryness of the scalp leading to an increase in dandruff. Head & Shoulders 2-in-1 Shampoo + Conditioner combines the power of an anti-dandruff shampoo and a nourishing conditioner in one revolutionary product. It not only nourishes the hair instantly but also tackles the reasons for dry scalp from the root.
3. Keep your hair covered while stepping out
The scalp is more prone to dryness during winters as cold and dry air damages the protective layer of the scalp and removes its natural moisture. Thus, you must keep your hair covered while stepping out to save it from cool wind. Also, avoid going outside with wet hair as it can cause split ends.
4. Head & Shoulders 2-in-1 Shampoo + Conditioner
A dry scalp s be treated. After all a healthy scalp is essential for healthy hair, which only adds to one’s personality and charm. Head & Shoulders 2-in-1 Shampoo + Conditioner is trusted by millions to fight the irritation caused by a dry scalp while also nourishing hair. Say goodbye to a dry scalp and hello to healthy nourished hair. Also we have Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for all the scalp types, so choose your preference accordingly for best results.