How to Relieve Scalp Itching

Scalp itching is a common issue many people face. Often, it can be resolved simply by altering your hair care routine. However, if the itching persists, it could be a sign of an underlying condition. Several factors can cause scalp itching, such as dry skin or a buildup of hair products. Usually, you can address the issue by changing your hair or skin care products. It's also important to check for lice, ensure you're not sunburned, and remember to stay hydrated.

Switch to a more natural shampoo. Regular shampoos and conditioners can leave residue on the scalp, leading to itching. Consider buying a new shampoo and conditioner, preferably those with natural ingredients such as tea tree oil, coconut oil, jojoba, or pyrithione zinc.

• You can find natural shampoos at supermarkets or health product stores.

Buy fragrance-free hair care products. Fragrances in hair products can irritate the scalp and cause itching. Opt for products labeled as "fragrance-free." If you can't find fragrance-free items, look for those marked as "hypoallergenic" on the label.

• You could also try products designed for babies or those suitable for sensitive skin.

Brush your hair regularly. Brush your hair 2-3 times a day to distribute natural oils across your hair, with special attention to the scalp. Use a clean, soft brush to stimulate blood circulation and evenly spread the natural oils to help alleviate scalp itching.

• Be gentle when brushing. Brushing too harshly can irritate or scratch the scalp, making itching worse.

Avoid hair products containing alcohol. Keeping alcohol away from your scalp is an effective way to prevent dandruff (which also causes itching). Hair care products with high alcohol content can worsen or even trigger scalp irritation, including conditions like eczema, increased oil production, and seborrheic dermatitis.

• Alcohol is a powerful drying agent; it can easily dry out the scalp and cause itching.

Apply coconut oil to your scalp. Coconut oil forms a protective barrier that helps retain moisture, making it effective in treating scalp itching. After washing your hair, massage a little coconut oil onto your clean scalp. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, then wash it out with fragrance-free shampoo. Repeat this remedy three times a week.

• An alternative is to lightly heat the coconut oil so it flows easily and mix it with shampoo before washing your hair.

Use medicinal shampoo to treat lice. Although lice can be very bothersome, they are easy to treat. Have someone check your hair for lice or nits near the scalp. The itching caused by lice is due to the scalp reacting to the lice's saliva.

• To treat lice, use a medicinal shampoo as directed, and wash all bed linens and clothes.
• Take any items that cannot be washed to a dry cleaner (including fabric toys).
• Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture.
• Soak hair tools (combs, hair ties, clips, etc.) in rubbing alcohol or medicinal shampoo for an hour.

Apply aloe vera to soothe sunburn symptoms. During the summer, especially on those first hot days, your scalp is very prone to sunburn. As the skin begins to heal, you'll start to feel itching. You can use aloe vera shampoo or conditioner to ease the discomfort.

• If you know you'll be outdoors for more than an hour, wear a hat or spray sunscreen on your scalp.

Completely dry your hair after washing. If you have long hair, avoid tying it up while it's still wet. Let your hair dry fully before tying it back, as wet hair pressed against the scalp all day can cause itching.

• Similarly, ensure your hair and scalp are dry after spending hours in the sun. Excessive sweating from prolonged sun exposure can also lead to scalp itching.

Use topical treatments to manage scalp psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic condition where skin cells grow abnormally and form red patches. The build-up of excess skin cells can cause itching and discomfort. Psoriasis is usually treated with topical medications or medicinal shampoos containing salicylic acid.

• If you suspect you have psoriasis, visit a general practitioner or dermatologist. They may prescribe topical treatments or recommend over-the-counter products.

See a dermatologist for persistent itching. If your scalp itching doesn’t improve, it could indicate a more serious skin condition, such as shingles, fungal infections like Tinea Amiantacea or Lichen Planopilaris, eczema, or ringworm. Most of these conditions come with other symptoms like flaking, oozing, or noticeable rashes.

• Consult with a doctor who can diagnose your condition and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Allow your scalp to breathe. Just like the skin on the rest of your body, your scalp needs to 'breathe' in order to stay healthy. If you're constantly wearing hats or frequently using wigs, you may be blocking air circulation to your scalp, which can lead to itching.

• If you find that wearing hats or wigs causes more itching, it's a good idea to give your scalp some time to breathe and avoid these accessories for a while.

Stay hydrated. Dehydration can affect your skin, causing it to become dry and itchy. While moisturizing your hair with gentle shampoos and avoiding drying out your strands is important, keeping your body hydrated also helps maintain a healthy scalp.

• Consult your doctor to determine the recommended fluid intake based on your age and weight. Adult men should aim for 13 cups (3 liters), while adult women should drink 9 cups (2.2 liters) per day.

Reduce daily stress and anxiety to alleviate itching. Stress and anxiety can negatively affect your overall health, including your scalp. If you’re not experiencing a rash but feel itching on your face or neck, stress might be the underlying cause. Try incorporating simple stress-relief techniques into your daily routine, such as:

• Spending more time relaxing with family and friends.
• Talking about your pressures or worries with a close friend or counselor.
• Practicing relaxation exercises like yoga or meditation.
• Avoiding screens (phones, computers, TVs, tablets) for at least an hour before bedtime.

• No matter how badly you feel like scratching, try to resist the urge to scratch your scalp when it's itchy, as it could make the situation worse.
• Remember to keep your nails clean to avoid scratching in your sleep.