An itchy scalp can have many causes, from psoriasis to not rinsing your shampoo out properly. Here are some solutions to help relieve a flaky or itchy scalp.
5 things you can do to relieve your flaky, itchy scalp
In addition to the change of seasons, stress, unsuitable hair products or an unbalanced diet often lead to dry scalp.
Use gentle, soothing shampoo and conditioner
Avoid chemical shampoos and clean your scalp thoroughly with our natural Waikura Manuka Shampoo, which contains Manuka oil. This shampoo contains no sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or other irritating ingredients and uses natural active ingredients to cleanse and condition the scalp and hair. Manuka oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties, opens the pores of the scalp and removes residues of chemical products that promote itching and dandruff.
Massage your scalp
Gently massage your scalp when shampooing to loosen dandruff without irritating the skin. Leave the shampoo in for at least two minutes to allow the Manuka oil to work its cleansing and soothing effects.
Rinse thoroughly
Make sure to rinse out shampoo and conditioner completely. Residues, especially from "building" or "strengthening" products, can be hard on the scalp. Use our deep-cleansing Waikura Manuka Shampoo regularly to effectively remove buildup and thoroughly cleanse hair and scalp.
Try a natural remedy
If your scalp is oily and flaky, a massage with jojoba or coconut oil can help. Add 1–2 drops of Manuka oil and massage the scalp at least 30 minutes before washing your hair. This will calm overactive sebaceous glands and reduce oiliness.
A natural conditioner with plant oils such as argan, olive or avocado oil as well as vitamin E and B5 helps to soothe the sensitive scalp and restore its moisture balance.
Pay attention to your diet and vitamins
An unbalanced diet, too little water or a lack of essential nutrients can contribute to dry scalp. Vitamins such as Omega-3, Omega-6, D, A, C and B-12 support scalp hydration, promote natural oil production and strengthen the skin barrier. A healthy diet, supplemented with vitamin supplements and plenty of water, ensures a resilient scalp and less dryness.
Do you know someone who suffers from an itchy scalp?
When it comes to itchy and flaky skin conditions, there are many possible causes for an itchy scalp. Chronic conditions such as dandruff, seborrhoeic dermatitis, psoriasis or eczema are often responsible. Harsh artificial additives contained in many of today's shampoos and conditioners often make these problems worse. Chemicals in hair dyes, hair gels and styling sprays also contribute to scalp irritation - no wonder that frequent scratching is the result! Fungal infections or parasites such as nits, head lice, dust mites or other airborne allergens also trigger or intensify itching.
Is sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) the cause of your itchy scalp?
Harsh foaming agents such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) are one of the most common triggers of scalp itching. This detergent, which gives many shampoos their foaming power, is known to be the main cause of skin and scalp irritation. Avoiding products containing this ingredient can significantly reduce the problem.
We do not use SLS in our products.
Is seborrheic dermatitis present?
Conditions such as seborrhoeic dermatitis or scalp psoriasis also cause itching and flaking. Seborrhoeic dermatitis causes greasy, yellowish scales, while red patches with silvery scales are typical of scalp psoriasis. Dandruff is caused by excessive shedding of dead skin cells that accumulate without thorough brushing or washing.
If you notice dandruff without itching, you are probably suffering from oily dandruff. This common and noticeable condition is often made worse when the scalp is not getting enough moisture. Many chemical anti-dandruff shampoos from the supermarket remove dead skin cells but do not improve the scalp's moisture balance. Such ingredients can further irritate the scalp, which increases itching and dandruff.
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