Itchy scalp causes discomfort. As embarrassing as it is, someone with an itchy scalp would have difficulty keeping a level head because her fingers are busy ‘digging’ into her hair. The possible causes of itchy scalp stem from dandruff, wrong hair product, head lice, scabies, scalp ringworm, nerve problem, skin cancer, or stress. It becomes a serious and complicated issue due to neglect. Do you suffer from an itchy scalp? We have listed some home remedies for your rescue:
1. Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties. It reduces itching caused by dry skin. Start by diluting apple cider vinegar in warm water and using it as a rinse after shampooing to alleviate dandruff and an itchy scalp.
2. Organic coconut oil
Coconut oil may be helpful for itchy scalps caused by eczema. It may also be helpful for combating head lice. A study analyzed the healing power of coconut oil mixed with anise. Researchers found this combination to be more successful at delousing and eliminating scalp itch than permethrin, a medication used to treat lice.
3. Peppermint oil
Peppermint oil may be effective at reducing dandruff and soothing the scalp, calming down the itch. Try diluting it with another oil, such as olive oil, and massaging it into the scalp before shampooing. You can also use peppermint tea as a rinse after shampooing.
4. Meditation
It may not surprise you that activities which reduce stress, such as meditation, may be effective at eliminating itchy scalps caused by anxiety. It may also help with itching due to eczema. Meditation can be tried alone or in conjunction with other itchy-scalp remedies. If you’re new to meditation, try taking a class or listening to a meditation tape, app, or podcast.
4. Tea Tree Oil
An essential oil available at health food stores, tea tree oil has antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiseptic properties. It also has anti-inflammatory effects. Tea tree oil can be irritating to the skin, so it’s important to use it sparingly or dilute it prior to use. Try adding 10 to 20 drops of tea tree oil to a gentle shampoo or mix it with olive oil and massage it directly into your scalp. Tea tree oil can help reduce or eliminate itching associated with dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and head lice. Tea tree oil should never be ingested.
5. Selenium sulfide
Selenium sulfide is an anti-infective medication used to treat seborrheic dermatitis. It works by slowing down the growth of yeast on the scalp. It’s available as a shampoo and lotion. It may be prescribed by your doctor or found in commercially prepared products. The recommended dosage for prescription-strength selenium sulfide is twice weekly for the first two weeks, followed by once-a-week use for up to one month. If you’re using a store-bought product containing selenium sulfide, make sure to follow the label instructions. Stop using it if irritation occurs or if your symptoms worsen.