When seeking the best dry scalp treatment, you should begin by identifying the cause of your dry scalp. Sometimes, simple changes in grooming practices might relieve the condition. Preventative measures such as protecting the skin might be your best dry scalp treatment. Moisturizing shampoos and conditioners could help as well, and a number of home remedies are widely used to treat dry scalp.
Although many dry scalp treatments depend on the underlying cause, there are some general recommendations for all cases. First, drink plenty of water to replenish moisture lost through dry skin. A dry scalp is often itchy, but avoid the urge to scratch. Scratching will only irritate the scalp and worsen the condition. On a similar note, a hard brush or comb can cause irritation as well, and replacing yours with a soft-bristled brush or even using your fingers to style your hair can help.
Your hair care regimen might be responsible for your dry scalp. Harsh hair care products, blow dryers, curlers and straighteners can strip the hair and scalp of natural oils that are responsible for trapping moisture. Frequent washing, especially under hot water, will also dry out your hair and scalp. Washing hair under warm water about twice a week and minimizing the use of heating devices such as blow dryers will keep your hair clean while retaining these oils.
The weather can dry your scalp as well, and it can irritate already dry skin. Protection from the elements is another important dry scalp treatment. Extremes of temperature, strong sunlight and dry, arid conditions will all dry your skin, including your scalp. If your hair is thin in spots, use sunscreen just like you would for any exposed skin, but for the best protection from any type of weather, a hat is probably your best bet.
Shampoos work by cleaning away oils and making your scalp more likely to become dry. Moisturizing shampoos minimize this effect, and conditioners replace oils that are scrubbed away during washing. Together, a moisturizing shampoo and a leave-in conditioner make an effective dry scalp treatment.
If your dry scalp is because of dandruff, a number of effective dandruff shampoos are widely available. You can try several in order to choose one that works for you. For advice on dry scalp treatment resulting from other skin conditions, you might need to consult with a skin specialist.
Home remedies for dry hair and scalp often involve a trip to the kitchen. Oils such as olive oil are popular, and they work by trapping moisture in the scalp. Vinegar, oatmeal, garlic and lemon are among the many home remedies used as a dry scalp treatment. Herbal remedies such as aloe and tea tree oil are widely used as well.