Several home remedies, such as coconut and tea tree oil, may help a person get rid of a dry scalp. However, these may not work for everyone.
There are several potential causes of a dry scalp. These include washing the hair too frequently, not drinking enough water, and having a reaction to harsh hair care products. Health conditions such as psoriasis could also result in a dry scalp.
If a person has a dry scalp, they may experience:
However, a person may be able to treat their dry scalp at home.
Although they may not work for everyone, the following are some potential home remedies that may have some merit when it comes to treating a dry scalp.
Coconut oil has some recognition in the medical community as being an effective moisturizer.
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However, another
Tea tree oil is a popular essential oil that lots of people use for its many potential health benefits.
According to a research review in the journal Clinical Microbiology Reviews, tea tree oil may have antifungal, antiseptic, and antibiotic properties that could help with scalp dryness.
Some people use aloe vera for relief from sunburn and dry skin.
When a person applies it to the scalp, aloe vera may help alleviate the itching associated with a dry scalp. It may also help with moisturizing the scalp.
An old study comparing the use of aloe vera gel with a placebo in 44 participants with seborrheic dermatitis — which is a condition that causes scaly, flaky skin — found that the aloe vera gel was more effective in reducing scaliness and itching.
In the diet, olive oil has displayed anti-inflammatory properties. Some research suggests that these properties could also be present when a person applies it to the skin.
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Witch hazel may have some protective anti-inflammatory properties that could be effective in treating minor skin conditions such as sunburn.
Researchers have explored these properties in both animal and human studies, according to one
Witch hazel may also help with the symptoms of a dry scalp, such as itchiness.
According to some research, the nutrients in bananas may provide effective scalp treatment.
One research paper, for example, suggests that the potassium, oils, and vitamins in bananas can help moisturize the scalp, treat dandruff, and improve hair health. The authors state that people can try this natural remedy by making their own banana hair conditioner at home.
Avocado oil could provide several potential benefits, including moisturizing the skin and scalp.
Like bananas, a person can also try mashing up an avocado and applying it to the scalp to provide extra moisture.
Jojoba oil could also provide some relief from a dry scalp.
One research review reports that some studies have shown that jojoba liquid wax, which is a compound derived from jojoba, can help hydrate the skin.
It is worth noting, however, that the authors of this review state that more research into jojoba is necessary.
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A person can mix yogurt and eggs together and apply it topically. However, they may wish to avoid this remedy if they think they have a sensitivity or allergy to egg or milk.
At present, there is little research to support the use of yogurt and egg to treat dry a scalp.
Learn about the use of egg yolk for dry or damaged hair here.
A person should talk to their baby’s doctor before trying any home remedy on their baby’s skin or scalp.
A doctor can recommend safe and effective moisturizers for babies.
Most natural remedies are safe and have minimal side effects.
However, tea tree oil can be dangerous if a person ingests it or uses it directly on their skin. To prevent issues, it is important to use a carrier oil, such as olive oil or coconut oil.
Before starting any new natural remedy, a person should try it on a small part of their scalp first, to determine whether or not they will have an adverse reaction to the treatment.
If a person thinks that they might be allergic to a particular topical solution, they should not use it. They should also stop using a natural remedy immediately if they notice any adverse side effects.
A person should see their doctor about a dry scalp if it does not go away after using home remedies such as moisturizing shampoos or ointments. The person may have an underlying condition that needs treatment to alleviate the dryness.
A person should also speak to their doctor if they tried an at-home solution and their symptoms got worse or they had an adverse reaction.
Although there are many natural remedies for dry scalp, they may not be helpful for everyone.
A person should talk with their doctor if their scalp dryness does not go away, or if they experience any reactions to home remedies.
A healthcare professional can provide additional insights into effective treatments for a dry scalp. They can also help with treating any underlying conditions that may be causing the symptoms.