Itchy scalp can be caused by several reasons such as dandruff, dry scalp as well as more severe issues such as dermatitis, eczema, skin disease, infections and allergic reactions to the ingredients used in your products. Itchy scalp can also be caused by using products that contain ingredients that clog the scalp and prohibit the scalp from breathing such as:
- Mineral Oil
- Petrolatum
- Parabens
- Drying alcohols such as Benzyl
- Sodium Hydroxylmethylglycinate (a skin and eye irritant that some companies claim as "natural" when in fact it is not. This ingredient is not recommended for sensitive skin)
Be Sure to Cleanse the Hair Properly Let's be honest, there are certain natural hair "rules" that we hear over and over again but sometimes, those rules may not work for everyone. Shampoos that contain sulfates may have a tendency to strip the hair of its natural moisture and can dry the hair out, I try to only use these types of shampoos once a month if needed and I always know when I need it. You may want to go for a shampoo with a pH level between 4.5 and 5.5, closest to the hair's natural pH level. Also, you may want to try shampoos that have anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties, or include ingredients such as thyme, origanum, mint, cinnamon, salvia, tea tree oil and clove, which have been found to have some of the most anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. (source). In addition, a good ACV rinse would also help calm a raging scalp.
Keep the Scalp Moisturized
Moisturized and greasy are too different things. First of all, your scalp produces its own oil called sebum so there really is no need to overdo it when it comes to moisturizing the scalp. Try using a light oil such as EVCO or Sweet Almond oil that won't clog the scalp if your itch is coming from a dry scalp. It is not necessary to moisturize your scalp daily, try moisturizing the scalp once a week or after clarifying the hair and scalp.
Use Essential Oils that Will Help Stop Itching
There are several oils and essential oils that can be used to help stop itchy scalp. Oils such as peppermint, tea tree oil, rose hips, chamomile and lavender. These are some of the essential oils that will help reduce inflammation and soothe the scalp. Be sure to use a carrier oil to cut the potency of the essential oils first before applying to the scalp.
Minimize Your Use of Product
Overdoing it with product will most certainly contribute to itchy scalp. You're styling on a regular basis or maybe your putting tons of gel on your hair to pull your puff back every day simply because you don't have the time during the week to pamper your hair. The weekend rolls around and you figure you can push it off until the next weekend but as soon as Monday afternoon hits, you find yourself digging effortlessly in your scalp. That's because all that product you've been using it clogging your scalp, which needs to breathe. Try reducing your use of product or if you're guilty of geling your natural hair in a poof puff everyday *guilty* then perhaps you should clarify your hair and scalp more often than you are.
These tips should help reduce an itchy scalp however, if you are dealing with a scalp disease or problems such as dermatitis or eczema, you should first consult with your physician.
