Before we talk about the different ways to moisturize the scalp. Let’s first discuss why it is important that we moisturize it.
Our scalp can also become dehydrated just like the rest of our skin. Dry scalp leads to itching and even the formation of cringeworthy flakes. Nobody likes having flakes falling off from their head every time they brush their hair. That’s just embarrassing! If you are having dull and lifeless hair, dry scalp might just be the one to blame as well. Having healthy and beautiful hair starts with a healthy scalp. If your scalp is not healthy, your hair won’t be either. So, the next time you think of ways to keep your skin healthy and moisturized, include your scalp, too. Listed below are three ways to keep your scalp hydrated and moisturized.
1. Choose a Scalp-Friendly Shampoo
Dry scalp can be caused by the shampoo that you use. Some shampoos have harsh formulas that strip the scalp of its natural oils, leaving it irritated and dry. The key is to find a shampoo that is gentle and hydrating to keep your scalp and hair moisturized and healthy. Stay away from shampoo that are formulated for oily hair because it could just worsen your dry scalp.
Because shampooing every day can also dry your scalp, it is recommended that you shampoo every other day. This will help your scalp produce enough natural oils until the next time you wash your hair.
Likewise, do not over-shampoo. Use an amount that is just enough for your hair. When you over-shampoo, you also strip the scalp of its protective oils, making it dry.
In addition, avoid washing your hair with hot water because frequent washing with hot water can dry out your hair and scalp as well. Instead, shower with warm water.
You may also use medicated shampoos that can be bought over-the-counter. Shampoos that contain zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole, or selenium oxide can help solve your problem with dry, irritated and flaky scalp. Be sure to use them at least once or twice a week while alternating with a gentle, moisturizing shampoo and conditioner.
2. Use Scalp Oils
Sometimes, our skin does not produce enough sebum. When this happens, our skin gets dry, including the scalp. Scalp oils can make up for the insufficient amount of oil produced in the scalp. Bring back moisture directly to your scalp and hair with the use of oils specifically intended for them. Sometimes, they even work better than other moisturizing products. Oils work well as treatments for dry scalp because they stay on skin longer than moisturizing creams or lotions.
Basically, when applying oil, you just get a cotton ball, dip it into the oil, and then directly apply it into the scalp. Massage your scalp gently to exfoliate the dry skin. Run your fingers to your hair as well to moisturize your strands. Just be careful not to scratch your scalp with your fingernails. While applying oil can leave your hair looking and feeling greasy, it’s nothing to worry about. All you have to do is use a shampoo with a naturally astringent ingredient such as tea tree oil, citrus oil, rosemary or chamomile infused in scalp-friendly formulas. It can help to take away that extra oil from your hair follicles. Once your scalp has been exfoliated and moisturized, you can expect the itchy feeling and dry flakes to disappear. Here are some oils that you can use for your scalp.
Oils as Scalp Moisturizer
-
Coconut Oil
It has antifungal and antibacterial properties. You can also easily find it in grocery stores. Apply a small amount of coconut oil directly to your scalp. Massage it to your scalp then leave it for 10 minutes. After that, wash your hair and be happy with your moisturized scalp and silky smooth hair.
-
Jojoba Oil
This is another effective moisturizer that can immediately relieve dry scalp. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help treat skin conditions that may be affecting the scalp. This oil can be found in many stores, and you may also order it online. If you want to use it for dry scalp, mix a few drops of jojoba oil to your shampoo. The oil will keep your shampoo from drying out your scalp as it will provide regular hydration for it.
-
Tea Tree Oil
It has strong antiseptic, antifungal, and antibiotic properties. You can buy tea tree oil from many drugstores. You can also find shampoos formulated for dry scalp or hair having this as an active ingredient. If you want to use tea tree oil, mix it with another type of oil, like coconut oil, massage it to your scalp, and then leave it for 10 minutes before you wash.
-
Olive Oil and Baking soda
This one is a perfect combination for your dry scalp because the former is moisturizing and the latter has antifungal and antibacterial properties. This combination will exfoliate and remove any itchy white flakes that you may have while it moisturizes your scalp. If you want to give this a try, all you have to do is combine equal parts of baking soda and olive oil. Thoroughly massage the mixture into your scalp and allow it to sit for five minutes. Wash your hair thoroughly after to remove all the residue.
3. Go Easy on the Styling Habits
Another important thing that you have to incorporate in your hair care regimen to achieve a healthy moisturized scalp, and hair at the same time, is going easy on your styling habits. When styling your hair, you may use heat appliances such as curling iron, blow dryer, and straightener. The heat can also dry out both your scalp and hair, especially if these tools are used often. Give your hair the chance to recover by limiting the use of these heat appliances.
Moreover, hair styling usually involves the use of styling products such as hairsprays, mousses, pomades, creams, volumizers, etc. Minimize the amount and the array of products that you use because they can build up on your scalp and form flakes and itching. Scalp irritation may also occur. Staying away from these kinds of products when you are using oil treatments to moisturize your scalp will yield the best result.