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Not all dry, flaky scalps are created equal. No matter the cause, though, it can be both uncomfortable and even embarrassing to be itching at your scalp or brushing flakes off your shoulder in public. Thankfully, several products are out on the market that can help get your scalp back into shape.
The first step is analyzing where your dryness is coming from, whether it’s a medical condition or if you’re using products that your skin cannot tolerate. Either way, we have a solution for you.
Eczema
Eczema can leave your scalp red, cracked, and itchy, but this is a common genetic skin condition that can be triggered by allergies or sensitivities to harsh products. Changes in the weather can cause flare-ups as well.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is caused by a blip in your immune system that causes your skin cells to multiply faster than usual, creating those obnoxious dry, itchy plaques on your scalp, and it can also pop up on your neck and forehead.
Dandruff
Dandruff can happen for many reasons, but most notably, it is a type of eczema that causes flaking on the parts of your scalp that have oil-producing glands. It can also occur when a fungus similar to yeast feeds on your skin’s oils.
Weather
Cold weather, especially in a place with no humidity, will dry out skin all over your body. Continuously spending time in front of a heater can also contribute to dryness.
Washing Routine
Everyone’s hair type is different, and maybe your hair washing routine is not in tune with what worked best for your unique hair. However, if you’re someone who washes their hair every day, your dry scalp could be from your stripping its natural oils.
Hair Product Solutions
If you think your dry scalp may be from an allergic reaction to the product you’re using, a simple visit to the dermatologist will help you determine which chemicals are affecting you. From then, all you need to do is avoid products containing your trigger ingredient.
If you have psoriasis, besides an ointment prescribed by your dermatologist, try hair products with the following ingredients to soothe your scalp:
On the other hand, you can improve eczema by using scent-free hair products. Fragrances can irritate eczema. If you’re looking for quality products, you can find luxurious hair solutions from Oribe, R+Co, and Kerastase at Elan.
Coal tar and salicylic acid are great for dandruff as well, but you might also consider:
Your diet plays an integral part in your hair and skin health, too. Consider taking fish oil supplements rich in omega-3 fatty acids or vitamins A, B, and C. Zinc is also excellent in aiding dryness.
If dandruff has long been an issue, try cutting down on carbohydrates and sugar and see if that makes a difference.
Changes In Your Washing Routine
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As we mentioned before, dry scalp could occur from washing your hair too frequently; on the flip side, it can also happen if you take too much time in-between washes and make up for it by using dry shampoo. Dry shampoo can be useful, but see about switching to a different formula or washing your hair more frequently to see if that improves the feel of your scalp.
If you’re ready to take on your dry scalp and want specific product recommendations, come see us at Elan. We can help you choose the best products for your hair and scalp.