33 Home Remedies for a Dry Scalp

A few people are aware of which scalp issue they are dealing with. Understanding the condition you are dealing with is important if you should know how to treat it accordingly. Many people confuse a dry scalp with dandruff. These are two separate conditions.

A dry scalp is a feeling of tightness and dryness on the scalp. It is mainly associated with skin flaking which can also cause itching. Dandruff, on the other hand, is a scalp condition associated with a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia. Dandruff develops in oily areas of the scalp where the Malassezia feeds on the excess oil causing fast shedding of skin cells.

Dandruff flakes do not fall off as easily as dry scalp flakes. Therefore, though both conditions have similar symptoms they are quite different. Before you think about how to prevent a dry scalp, you need to know what causes one in the first place.

Some of the main causes of a dry scalp include:

Hair Products & Routine

Certain hair products can result in a dry scalp, dandruff, or even skin conditions such as acne. The main reason for this is the harsh chemicals used in styling products, conditioners, and shampoos. Hair products can suck away the natural oils of your hair.

Hair routines can also be associated with a dry scalp. Straightening your hair, curling your hair with heat, or using the highest heat level on a hairdryer, are practices that could lead to a dry scalp.

The first preventive measure against a dry scalp is to change the hair products you use. Switch to organic products that do not have harsh chemicals. The next step would be to change your hair care routine.

Avoid using curling irons, flat irons, and hair dryers to style your hair. If you cannot avoid using these styling tools, apply a heat-protectant moisturizer or spray beforehand.

Cold Weather

Many people tend to suffer from dry skin during cold winter months. The scalp is also affected by cold weather. Dry hair can rid the hair and scalp of its moisture during the cold season. The secret to preventing a dry scalp during cold weather is to absorb in as much moisture as possible.

Some of the solutions you can use during cold weather include:

• Scalp massage
• Hair lotion
• Hydrating conditioners and shampoos
• Hydrating hair masks

These solutions lock in moisture and enable your scalp to produce natural sebum to keep it flake-free and healthy throughout the cold season. 

Anxiety

Many people associate anxiety with jitters or a nervous stomach. However, there are many different ways that anxiety can lead to a dry scalp. Anxiety triggers a hormonal change that affects the pH balance of your scalp causing it to dry out.

If you are already suffering from a scalp condition such as dandruff, being anxious will aggravate it. Stress can also cause your skin to be more sensitive. As a result, hair products you normally use will have a different reaction. Another preventative measure against a dry scalp is to avoid anxiety.

Dehydration

Dehydration can also result in a dry scalp. When you are not taking enough water, you will not only experience changes in your skin; your scalp is also affected. Another way of preventing a dry scalp is by staying hydrated.

Hydrating the scalp reduces your risk of flaking and gets rid of inflammation and redness. Aim at taking 8 glasses of water every day. If this is not possible, try taking fruits and vegetables that contain water.

Lifestyle Behaviors

Some of the behaviors you indulge in may also dry your scalp. Intolerance to gluten, the use of birth control, and dietary deficiencies can lead to a dry scalp. Changing your diet can help you achieve overall scalp health. Take more vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, and whole grains. Alternatively, supplement your diet with multi-vitamins. 

Potential Problems a Dry Scalp Can Lead To

Eczema

A dry flaky scalp can be caused by a condition known as scalp eczema. This condition is characterized by a red, inflamed, and itchy scalp. It can also cause dandruff. 

Psoriasis

Many people think that psoriasis is a condition that affects the skin alone. However, you can suffer from scalp psoriasis. It appears on the scalp as a single patch and can spread to the neck and forehead. It can result in crusty sores on your scalps and cause severe itching. The itching sensation can lead to infection and even hair loss.

Dandruff

Although dandruff is mainly caused by oily skin, it can also be caused by a dry scalp. This condition is characterized by white flakes that fall from your scalp naturally. 

Ringworm of the Scalp

This is a fungal infection caused by a dirty and dry scalp. It is also caused by scalp injuries or a scalp that stays wet for a long time like for people who sweat excessively. Ringworm of the scalp spreads quickly and is easily contracted through brushes, combs, and even the clothing of infected persons. The main symptoms of this infection are balding areas of the scalp; pus-filled blisters, and inflamed scaly patches on the skin.

Dermatomyositis

Dermatomyositis is a rare condition of the scalp. This disease is characterized by a degeneration of the skin and muscles and inflammatory issues. This condition can cause weakness and dryness in the body including the scalp.

The common symptom of dermatomyositis is a rash on the scalp. The rash appears purple/blue in color and is very different from other kinds of rashes that look red and inflamed.

When to See a Doctor

It is normal to dismiss itchiness on your scalp as anxiety or excess sweat. However, there are certain symptoms that indicate the need to seek medical attention. Some of the symptoms to watch out for include:

• Red and inflamed scalp
• Excessive itchiness
• Pus-filled blisters on the scalp
• Frequent falling off of white flakes
• A purple/blue rash on the scalp

Home Remedies for a Dry Scalp

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar contains properties that fight against the bacteria that cause scalp infections. This treatment also neutralizes the pH level of the skin and nourishes the scalp. You will notice a significant reduction in flakes and itchiness after one wash with this solution.

Procedure:

• Mix half a cup of apple cider vinegar with half a cup of water
• Apply the solution on your scalp and massage it for a few minutes
• Allow the application to settle in for a while before rinsing your hair with shampoo
• For best results, repeat this procedure regularly

You can also mix apple cider vinegar with peppermint and vinegar essential oils to make a hairspray that will relieve your scalp from dryness.

N/B: Dilute apple cider vinegar is mainly used by those who have a sensitive scalp. If your scalp is strong enough to handle this treatment, you can apply it directly without diluting it with water.

Neem Oil

Neem has antifungal, antiseptic, and antibacterial properties that inhibit the release of histamine and relief dryness.

Procedure:

• Mix a cup of neem leaves with 2 cups of water
• Let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes
• Remove the solution from the heat and leave it to cool
• Grind the leaves to make a paste
• Apply the paste on your scalp and allow it to settle for 30 minutes
• Rinse away the solution using shampoo and water
• For best results repeat the procedure twice a week

You can also mix neem oil with any carrier oil and massage the mixture on your scalp. 

Coconut Milk

Coconut milk contains Vitamin E which is effective in preventing an itchy and dry scalp. Vitamin E is also important for healthy hair.

Procedure:

• Grate a coconut and extract 3 cups of coconut milk
• Refrigerate the milk overnight
• Add ¼ cup of gram flour in the milk
• Leave the paste for 30 minutes
• Apply the paste on your scalp
• Massage your scalp for 30 minutes
• Wear a shower cap and leave it on for 6 hours
• Rinse off the paste using shampoo and water
• For best results, repeat the procedure regularly

Calendula

Calendula is packed with many essential nutrients and healing properties. It has both anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help with issues like itchiness, eczema, sore, dandruff, dermatitis, psoriasis, and inflamed areas.

This remedy is effective in improving scalp health and relieving dryness.

Procedure:

• Boil 4 cups of water
• Add calendula flowers in the water and leave them to simmer
• Remove the solution from the heat after a few minutes
• Leave the solution throughout the night
• For best results, repeat this process regularly

Hibiscus

Hibiscus flowers and leaves are rich in alpha hydroxy acids, amino acids, and Vitamins A-C. This remedy promotes blood flow to the scalp, prevents hair loss, and is ideal for treating dandruff. Hibiscus has been used for preventing premature graying of hair, for maintaining strong hair roots and strands, and for nourishing the hair.

Procedure:

• Mix two cups of water with a ½ cup of hibiscus flowers and ½ cup of hibiscus leaves
• Boil the mixture for 5 minutes
• Remove the mixture from the head and leave it to steep throughout the night
• Strain the mixture
• With a cotton ball, apply the mixture on the scalp
• Leave it to settle in for 30 minutes
• Rinse off the mixture with water

Parsley

Parsley is widely known as a herb, vegetable, and spice. The plant is not only used for cuisines, but it is also effective as a treatment. Parsley is packed with Vitamin B complex, C, and E and contains anti-cancer properties (falcarinol and falcarindiol). Parsley is popular for improving hair growth and treating scalp dryness and infections.

Procedure:

• Mix a cup of parsley with 2 cups of water
• Leave the mixture to boil for 20 minutes
• Leave it to cool down
• Strain the leaves
• Grind the leaves to make a paste
• Add one lemon in the paste
• Apply the solution on your scalp and let it stay on for a while
• Rinse off the paste using shampoo and water
• For best results, repeat this process once a week

Green Tea and Beetroot

Green tea consists of antioxidants that are effective in curing infections. When combined with beetroot, this remedy helps relieve a dry and inflamed scalp.

Procedure:

• Cut I beetroot into small pieces
• Add the chopped up beetroot and a tablespoon of green tea leaves in a cup of water
• Heat the mixture for 20 minutes
• Leave it to cool down then strain the solution
• Blend the green tea leaves and beetroot
• Apply the mixture to your scalp and leave it for 30 minutes
• Rinse off the mixture
• For best results, repeat the procedure 2 times a week

Ginger

While ginger has antibiotic properties that help to relieve a sore throat, it is also used to promote a healthy scalp. Ginger is packed with circulatory agents that improve blood flow on the scalp and strengthens the roots of the hair.

Ginger also has fatty acids that prevent thinning of hair. It also has an antiseptic that remedies dandruff and other scalp problems.

Procedure:

• Mix a tablespoon of grated ginger with sesame oil
• Blend these ingredients
• Apply the solution to your scalp
• Allow the solution to stay on for 6 hours
• Wash the solution off with water
• For best results, repeat this procedure regularly

Watercress

Watercress consists of calories Vitamins A, B6, and C, calcium, potassium, and magnesium. From digestion, dental health, to a strong immune system, watercress is packed with healing properties. Watercress help protect the skin against aging and hair against thinning. Watercress also helps prevent your scalp from dryness.

Procedure:

• Crush a cup of watercress
• Add a teaspoon of alcohol and geranium into the watercress
• Massage the mixture on your scalp for 20 minutes
• Allow the application to settle in for a couple of hours
• Rinse off the mixture with water
• For best results, repeat the treatment regularly

White Gourd

This is an annual creeping plant. It contains 96% water and is packed with amino acids, Vitamin B and C, calcium and potassium. White gourd, also known as winter melon, is an effective treatment for itching, flaking, dry scalp, and dandruff. If you are suffering from hair loss, winter melon also helps promote hair growth.

Procedure:

• Mix white gourd seeds with water and blend the solution to form a paste
• Apply the mixture on your scalp and leave it to settle for a while
• Rinse off the mixture with water
• For best results, repeat this treatment regularly

Fenugreek

Fenugreek is not only used for treating dry scalp, but it also adds volume and the much-needed shine to your hair.

Procedure with honey:

• Mix a tablespoon of fenugreek powder with honey
• Apply the solution to your scalp
• Massage your scalp for 15 minutes and leave the application to settle for 30 minutes
• Rinse off the application using shampoo and water
• For best results, repeat the procedure regularly

Procedure with Amla:

• Take the seeds of 2 goose berries
• Blend 2 gooseberries and a tablespoon of fenugreek seeds
• Add some honey to the mixture
• Apply the solution to your scalp and let it settle for 30 minutes
• Rinse of the solution using shampoo and water

Onion Juice

Onion juice has long been known for restoring the shine and luster of one's hair. It also treats dandruff and premature graying of hair. Onion juice has antifungal and antibacterial properties that provide relief from an itchy and dry scalp.

Onion provides potassium, magnesium, geranium, and sulfur for nourishing the scalp.

Procedure:

• Grind an onion and extract its juice
• Mix 3 tablespoons of onion juice with a table spoon of olive oil
• Apply the solution to your scalp
• Allow the solution to settle for 30 minutes
• Rinse off the solution with water
• For best results, repeat the treatment regularly

Sea Salt

Sea salt contains magnesium which is essential for treating skin conditions. Sea salt is also a dry scalp remedy that helps relieve inflammatory diseases such as psoriasis.

Procedure:

• Blend a tablespoon of sea salt. Alternatively, you can use Epsom salt.
• Add a tablespoon of coconut oil to the powder
• Mix the component and massage the solution on your scalp
• Allow it to settle for 5 minutes
• Rinse of the solution using shampoo and water
• If coconut oil is not available, you can use olive oil
• For best results, repeat this process twice a week

Baking Soda

Baking soda has a wealth of health benefits from whitening of teeth to exfoliation of dead skin and impurities on the scalp. Baking soda has antibacterial and medicinal properties that render it an effective dry scalp remedy. Baking soda also treats dandruff and other fungal conditions.

Procedure:

• Massage olive oil on your scalp for a couple of minutes
• Mix 3 tablespoons of baking soda with water to form a paste
• Apply the solution to your scalp
• Allow the solution to settle for 20 minutes
• Use water to rinse off the paste
• For best results, repeat this procedure twice a week

Oatmeal

Oatmeal is an effective scalp moisturizer. Oats is packed with Vitamin E which is essential for healthy skin. Oats nourishes dry skin and treats flaking, itching, and dryness.

Procedure:

• Mix a tablespoon of oatmeal powder with ½ a cup of water
• Stir the solution properly and massage it gently on your scalp
• Leave the solution to settle for 30 minutes
• Rinse off the solution with cold water
• For best results, repeat the process twice a day

Dried Herbs Rinse

Thyme leaves, calendula flowers, and comfrey leaves are effective scalp moisturizers. Instead of using commercial shampoos to treat your dry scalp, here are some processes that could be worth your while.

Procedure:

• Boil 2 cups of water
• Take 8 thyme leaves, 10 comfrey leaves, and 5 calendula flowers, and add them into the boiled water
• Cover the solution and leave it to steep
• Massage the solution on your scalp and allow it to settle for 20 minutes
• Rinse off the solution using shampoo and water
• For best results, repeat this process once a week

Lilac, Basil, and Henna Leaves

Lilac, basil and henna leaves contain antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties that help treat an itchy and dry scalp.

Procedure:

• Combine one cup each of henna, basil, and lilac leaves
• Blend the leaves together to form a mixture
• Pour 6 cups of coconut oil to the mixture and leave it to boil
• When the color of the solution turns brown, remove it away from the heat
• After the oil is cool, strain it and store it in a bottle
• Apply the oil on your scalp and leave it to settle for one hour
• Rinse of the oil with shampoo and water
• For best result, repeat the treatment daily

Listerine

Many people know Listerine as a mouthwash with a minty taste but very few would expect it to be among the dry scalp home remedies. Listerine is especially effective in treating dandruff and hair loss. It is also helpful in reducing itchiness and relieving a dry scalp.

Procedure:

• Combine some Listerine with baby oil
• Stir the solution properly
• With a cotton ball, apply the solution to your scalp and along your hair
• Allow the treatment to settle for 5 minutes
• Rinse off the solution using shampoo and water
• For best results, repeat this process regularly

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is packed with anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties that get rid of bacteria that cause flakes and dryness. For a soothing effect, add it to your regular conditioner or shampoo.

Procedure:

• Mix your conditioner or shampoo with a few drops of tea tree oil
• Rinse your hair and scalp using this solution
• Repeat this process regularly
• For best results, use a tea tree oil based conditioner or shampoo

The other alternative is to mix water with 5 drops of tea tree oil and wash your hair with this solution after shampooing. Repeat this on a regular basis for relief of scalp dryness and itchiness. 

Beer Treatment

Procedure 1:

• Add 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to 2 cups of beer
• Apply the solution to your hair
• Repeat this regularly

N/B: Apply the mixture after shampooing your hair.

Procedure 2:

• Mix eight ounces of beer with some drops of jojoba oil
• Apply the mixture to your hair and allow it to settle for 15 minutes
• Rinse off the solution using warm water then wash your hair with shampoo

Coconut Oil, Grapefruit and Lemon Juice Mixture

This procedure helps to fight dandruff and also to remove dryness.

Procedure:

• Warm organic coconut oil
• Leave it to cool down
• Extract juice from a grapefruit
• Extract juice from a lemon
• Mix the grapefruit and lemon juices
• Add 2 tablespoons off the resulting juice to coconut oil
• Massage the solution on your scalp then cover your head using a hot towel
• Allow the application to settle for 15 minutes
• Wash off the solution with shampoo
• For best results, repeat the process regularly

Sugar Scalp Scrub

Sugar can be used for exfoliation. Follow this process to get rid of dead skin that has accumulated in your scalp resulting in dryness.

Procedure:

• Add five tablespoons of brown sugar to olive oil
• Apply this solution to your scalp
• Massage your scalp gently in circular movements
• Wash off the scrub
• For best results, repeat this treatment regularly

Avocado

Avocado is not only a great source of non-saturated fats, but it is also packed with vitamins, minerals and natural oils. These nutrients help treat a dry scalp. Avocado also makes hair glossy, moisturized, and soft.

Procedure:

• Mix 2 tablespoons of virgin olive oil and 1 teaspoon of honey with a mashed up a ripe avocado
• Apply the mixture to your dry hair. Put on a shower cap and let the mixture settle for 30 minutes
• Wash off the mixture using shampoo and water

Aloe Vera for Dry Scalp

When you are in doubt about what to do for dry scalp, the moisturizing, cleansing, and cooling properties of aloe vera is the answer to your problem.

Procedure:

• Extract the oil of an aloe leaf
• Add a few drops of an essential oil to the aloe vera oil
• Apply the solution to your scalp and along your hair
• Allow it to settle for 20 minutes
• Rinse off the solution with water
• For best results, repeat this treatment regularly

An alternative way to use aloe vera oil is to add it to your regular conditioner or shampoo. You can also rub the rind of the aloe leaf on your scalp. 

Egg Yolk and Olive Oil For Dry Scalp

In some cases, the scalp requires more than just to be massaged with oil. One way of how to treat dry scalp is combining olive oil and egg yolk to condition the scalp, treat dry scalp, and nourish the hair follicles.

Procedure:

• Add 2-3 egg yolks in a bowl, mix with 2 teaspoons of olive oil, and add some water
• Mix the ingredients thoroughly
• Dampen your hair and apply the mixture along with the hair and on the scalp
• Leave the mixture for 20 minutes
• Rinse off the mixture using lukewarm water
• You can also switch olive oil with almond oil or coconut oil
• For best results, repeat the treatment twice a week

Honey

Honey is an anti-viral and anti-inflammatory that is effective in treating a dry scalp.

Procedure with Olive Oil:

• Mix 2 teaspoons of honey with ½ a cup of warm virgin olive oil
• Apply the solution to your scalp and massage it gently
• Leave the solution to settle for 10 minutes
• Rinse off the solution using herbal shampoo
• Cover your scalp using a hot towel to hold the moisturizer effectively
• You can switch olive oil with coconut oil
• For best results, repeat this treatment regularly

Mayonnaise

When mayonnaise is mixed with eggs, it becomes an excellent scalp moisturizer. The vinegar in mayonnaise acts as a disinfectant that fights the bacteria that causes itching and dryness.

Procedure:

• Apply ½ a cup of mayonnaise on your scalp
• Massage the scalp with a lot of emphasis on the roots of your hair
• Put on a shower cap and settle down for 20 minutes
• Remove the shower cap and wash your hair
• For best results, repeat this treatment twice a week

Lemon

Lemon consists of both moisturizing and antiseptic properties. It is also used to get rid of excessive dead cells.

Procedure with Fuller's Earth:

• Mix lemon juice, coconut oil, and a cup of fuller's earth
• Apply the paste on the scalp and leave it for an hour
• Rinse off the paste with shampoo and water
• For best results, repeat the remedy regularly

Witch Hazel

If you are wondering how to treat dry scalp caused by blow drying or hair coloring products, then witch hazel is the solution. It consists of a natural astringent property that treats itchiness by reducing inflammation.

Procedure:

• Mix hazel oil with water
• Apply the mixture to your scalp
• Massage your scalp gently for 10 minutes
• Wash off the solution with water
• For best results, repeat this procedure once in 4 days

Coconut Oil

If you are wondering what to do for dry scalp, oiling is an effective way of retaining lost moisture and treating dryness. This process triggers natural oil production, facilitates blood circulation to your scalp and hair follicles, and supplies important nutrients to your scalp.

Procedure:

• Warm some coconut oil
• Apply the ball along your hair and on your scalp with a cotton ball
• Massage your scalp in circular motions
• Allow the application to settle overnight
• Wash off the oil with shampoo
• Alternatives to coconut oil are olive oil, castor oil, and almond oil
• For best results, repeat this procedure twice a week

Garlic

Garlic consists of antimicrobial properties that are perfect for the elimination of bacteria that cause dryness.

Procedure:

• Crush some garlic cloves and rub them onto your scalp
• To keep away the potent smell of garlic, you can mix it with honey and massage the mixture into the scalp
• Allow the application to settle for 10 minutes
• Wash off the application with shampoo and water
• For best results, repeat this procedure thrice a week

Aspirin

The main ingredient in aspirin is salicylic acid. This acid is a component in shampoos used for treating flaking scalps and dandruff. Aspirin is particularly helpful in reducing flaking.

Procedure:

• Grind two aspirins into a powder
• Add the powder to shampoo
• Apply the shampoo on your scalp
• Leave it for 2 minutes
• Wash off the shampoo and then wash your head again using plain shampoo

Hair and Scalp Mask

Avocado, banana, and honey are perfect for dry scalp home remedies. A hair mask that combines these three ingredients is the perfect remedy for fighting bacteria that cause dryness.

Procedure:

• Combine half an avocado, a mashed banana, and two tablespoons of honey.
• Blend this mixture and apply it to your scalp
• Allow it to stay on for 30 minutes
• Wash off the mixture with water
• For best results, repeat this procedure twice a week

Do's and Don'ts

Do

• Increase Vitamin E in your diet by consuming foods such as tomatoes, blueberries, sunflower seeds, and almonds. Additionally, eat foods that are rich in Vitamin B, C, zinc, and iron.
• Reduce the levels of sugars in your food.
• Oil your scalp regularly to maintain its moisture and oil balance. Massage your scalp on a regular basis with Vitamin E and B oil, almond or lavender oil to increase blood circulation and keep it moisturized
• Do meditation or yoga to reduce stress. High stress levels can result in a dry scalp.

Don'ts

• Do not wash your hair too often since too much water exposure can cause dryness.
• Do not use very hot water when washing your hair since heat can inhibit the production of moisture and oils on the scalp.
• Do not use chemical substances on your hair.
• Do not leave conditioner or shampoo in the hair for a long period of time.

Conclusion

Many people do not notice when they have a dry scalp. It may take the falling of white flakes or constant itchiness for most people to realize there is a problem with their scalp. While the symptoms of a dry scalp and dandruff are similar, the conditions are different. Dandruff is a fungal condition whereas a dry scalp is brought about by a myriad of reasons.

Some of the common reasons for a dry scalp include dehydration, diet, lifestyle, and cold weather. However, a dry scalp can be an indication of a serious problem such as ringworms, eczema, and psoriasis. In severe cases, a dry scalp can result in red sores on the scalp, excessive itching, and loss of hair. If you have a dry scalp, the best course of action is to visit your doctor before the condition gets out of hand.

Some of the home remedies for a dry scalp are mentioned above. What most of these remedies have in common is that they get rid of bacteria that cause swelling and promote circulation of blood around the scalp. These two actions help nourish the scalp and return its natural moisture and oil levels. To avoid a dry scalp make sure you are hydrated and eat a diet rich in Vitamins A, B, C, and E. It is also important that you avoid exposing your head to excessive heat or using shampoos and moisturizers with chemical ingredients.

A healthy scalp translates to glowing and healthy hair. Make sure you follow these steps to prevent or to treat your dry scalp before the problem becomes irreversible.