Scalp itches? – Causes & tips on how to get rid of the itching
An itchy scalp is a pretty annoying feeling. But as tempting as it may be to find relief, don't scratch it! Your scalp is the foundation for healthy, shiny hair, and it's also quite sensitive.
You probably already know: The best solution is to find the cause of an itchy scalp and address it. There are a whole host of triggers that can cause an itchy scalp: from dandruff to the wrong care products. In this article, you'll learn everything about the causes of an itchy scalp and get valuable tips to put an end to the itching.
What you can expect:
Why does the scalp itch? – These are the most common causes
The causes of an itchy scalp can be varied and require very different treatments. One of the most common triggers is a dry scalp, which can be caused, for example, by heating air in winter. However, skin diseases can also manifest as scalp itching.
scales
Aaargh, as if an itchy scalp wasn't enough. It's often accompanied by dandruff. Dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis can cause scalp itching. Dandruff is relatively easy to recognize by the large, white flakes at the roots and in the hair. It's also often visible on clothing around the shoulders and neck and is caused by a fungus called Malassezia globosa, which feeds on the sebum on the scalp. This is why people with oily scalps are more prone to dandruff .
Dandruff is sometimes confused with a dry scalp. And while a dry scalp may exhibit very small flakes, real dandruff is fairly easy to recognize by its size and often white-yellowish color. Furthermore, with dandruff, the scalp is oily and red, not dry.
Other causes:
Incorrect hair care
You know this feeling? You're supposed to treat yourself and buy an expensive new care or styling product, and suddenly you have an itchy scalp and/or dandruff? This is often caused by ingredients that your scalp doesn't tolerate, causing itching. But too much care can also unnecessarily irritate your scalp and dry it out. The culprit here is aggressive surfactants that attack your skin's natural oil layer.
stress
Are you already stressed and suddenly your scalp is itching? Great. Unfortunately, stress affects the entire body – including your skin and scalp. This is caused by the increased release of the body's hormone cortisol, which inhibits the formation of new skin cells. The result: itchy, inflamed skin and scalp.
Allergies and rash
Just as you can be allergic to food or other things, you can also react to certain ingredients in hair care or styling products. In this case, your scalp will react with redness and flaky patches. This is likely, for example, if your scalp starts to itch after using a new product.
Other possible causes
Increasing age: As we age, our body produces fewer oils, which can lead to dry skin and scalp.
Genetic predisposition: Great, yes, dry skin can also be inherited and thus lead to itching.
Seasonal temperature differences: The cold and dry air from heating in winter can strain and dry out the scalp.
Nutrition: Unhealthy diet and nutrient deficiencies stress the entire body – including the scalp.
Pests: Most people have vague memories of head lice from kindergarten or school. Diagnosis is pretty simple: You see the little critters.
Symptoms of an itchy scalp
It's self-explanatory, but the most common symptom of a stressed, dry scalp is itching. If you frequently have the urge to scratch your scalp, you have an itchy scalp. Another symptom of a dry scalp is small flakes – this is also easy to spot.
What helps against dry, itchy scalp? – 5 tips and home remedies
An itchy scalp is annoying. The good news: In most cases, you can eliminate the cause relatively easily. Before you take action, however, you should first determine the source of the itching. Pay attention to when your scalp itches: During or after washing your hair? Then your shampoo could be the culprit, or you're washing your hair with too much heat. Does your scalp itch during stressful periods? You already guessed it: The itching is probably stress-induced. If the itching persists or if there are sores on your scalp, you should consult a doctor to rule out any other medical conditions.
These tips can help you relieve the itching:
Tip 1: The right hair care
If the itching is caused by dandruff, try an anti-dandruff shampoo from a pharmacy or drugstore. If the itching is caused by a dry scalp, you should use a mild shampoo without silicones and avoid washing your hair too often. If you suspect or know you are allergic to a particular ingredient, you should, of course, make sure to use products without that ingredient.
Tip 2: Turn down the temperature
Hot showers and blow-drying feel great, especially in winter, of course. Unfortunately, they also dry out your skin and hair. So, it's better to wash your hair with lukewarm water.
When blow-drying your hair, make sure to use the coldest setting.
Tip 3: Rinse out styling residues thoroughly
If you use a lot of styling products , you should make sure to rinse your hair thoroughly at night so that the residue doesn't unnecessarily stress your scalp. Many styling products contain microplastics and silicones, which make your hair shine. However, if these aren't rinsed out thoroughly, your hair will look lifeless and dull in the long run. For this reason, we generally avoid microplastics and silicones in our styling products .
Tip 4: The classics: sleep, nutrition, water
We know. It sounds basic and trite. You might even be sick of hearing it. But a healthy diet, a balanced fluid balance, minimal stress, and sufficient sleep are the holy grail of health and, consequently, healthy (scalp) skin. That's it.
Tip 5: Good old home remedies
Of course, you can also try all sorts of home remedies to get an itchy scalp under control. The effectiveness is, of course, controversial, but it's worth a try.
We have summarized the best home remedies for you here:
Tea tree oil : Has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Mix a few drops into your shampoo and leave it on your scalp for 5 minutes. Be careful, though—it's not suitable for sensitive scalps.
Baking soda : Baking soda also has antibacterial properties and can rid your scalp of dandruff and oil. Mix a paste of water and baking soda and apply it to your scalp. Let the mixture sit for a short while, then rinse thoroughly.
Olive oil treatment : The miracle cure for dry scalp. Apply a small amount of olive oil to your scalp with your fingers and leave it on for a few hours. Rinse thoroughly afterward, of course!
Apple cider vinegar rinse : It sounds strange at first, but it can work. Apple cider vinegar removes buildup and thus relieves itching. Mix 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with half a liter of cold water and apply the mixture to your hair after shampooing. You don't have to rinse out the rinse, and don't worry—the smell will disappear in no time.
FAQ
Which shampoo for dandruff and itchy scalp?
If the itching is caused by dandruff, simply use an anti-dandruff shampoo from a pharmacy or drugstore. If there's no improvement after a few weeks, consult a doctor.
Can scalp itching indicate a deficiency?
Our vitamin and mineral balance has a major impact on the health of our skin and scalp. A deficiency in zinc, vitamin A, or omega-3 fatty acids, for example, can lead to itchy skin. Meat, eggs, legumes, nuts, and whole grains are perfect sources of zinc. Vitamin A is found in foods like sweet potatoes, carrots, spinach, and mackerel. Eating fish, avocados, and tofu provides your body with omega-3 fatty acids.
Why does the scalp itch at night?
If your skin only itches at night, it could be a sign of a parasitic skin disease called scabies – it's best to see a doctor.
Can an itchy scalp cause hair loss?
A very sensitive and irritated scalp can react with hair loss, and dandruff can also prevent the scalp and hair follicles from receiving enough oxygen. Furthermore, scratching for the short-term relief of itching also leads to scalp injury and, in some cases, hair being pulled out. So, as difficult as it may be: Please don't scratch!
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