What causes dandruff and dry scalp. How to distinguish between dandruff and dry scalp symptoms. What are the most effective treatments for dandruff and dry scalp. How to prevent dandruff and dry scalp naturally. When to see a doctor for scalp issues.

Understanding the Root Causes of Dandruff and Dry Scalp

Many people experience flaky scalps, but the underlying causes can differ significantly. Dry scalp and dandruff are two common conditions that share similar symptoms but have distinct origins.

Dry scalp occurs when the skin lacks adequate moisture. This can lead to irritation and flaking. Several factors may contribute to a dry scalp, including:

• Cold, dry air
• Contact dermatitis from hair products
• Aging
• Use of harsh products that strip natural oils

Dandruff, on the other hand, is primarily caused by seborrheic dermatitis, a condition characterized by oily, red, and scaly skin. The main culprit behind dandruff is often an overgrowth of Malassezia, a fungus naturally present on the scalp. When Malassezia multiplies excessively, it triggers an accelerated shedding of skin cells, resulting in visible flakes.

Factors that can promote Malassezia overgrowth include:

• Hormonal changes
• Stress
• Underlying medical conditions
• Nutritional deficiencies

Identifying Key Symptoms: Dry Scalp vs. Dandruff

While both conditions can cause flaking and itching, there are subtle differences in their symptoms that can help differentiate between the two:

Dry Scalp Symptoms:

• Small, white flakes
• Dry skin on other parts of the body
• Itching
• Tightness or discomfort

Dandruff Symptoms:

• Larger, oily flakes (white or yellowish)
• Redness on the scalp
• Intense itching
• Oily or greasy scalp

Can you determine which condition you have based on the appearance of flakes? Yes, dandruff flakes tend to be larger and oilier compared to the smaller, drier flakes associated with dry scalp. Additionally, if you notice dry skin on other parts of your body, it’s more likely that you’re dealing with dry scalp rather than dandruff.

Effective Treatments for Dry Scalp

Addressing dry scalp often involves restoring moisture to the skin. Here are some effective treatment options:

1. Use a gentle, moisturizing shampoo
2. Apply a hydrating conditioner
3. Try overnight scalp treatments with light moisturizers
4. Consider professional scalp treatments that use steam for deep hydration
5. Avoid hot showers and harsh hair products

How can you test if you have dry scalp at home? Apply a light moisturizer to your scalp before bed. If the flakes disappear after shampooing in the morning, it’s likely that dry scalp was the culprit.

Managing Dandruff: Targeted Solutions and Lifestyle Changes

While dandruff cannot be cured, its symptoms can be effectively managed with the right approach:

Dandruff Shampoos:

Over-the-counter dandruff shampoos are often the first line of defense. These typically contain active ingredients such as:

• Zinc pyrithione
• Selenium sulfide
• Ketoconazole
• Salicylic acid
• Coal tar

How often should you use dandruff shampoo? For mild cases, daily use of a gentle dandruff shampoo may suffice. For more severe cases, alternating between different types of medicated shampoos can be beneficial.

Lifestyle Modifications:

• Manage stress through relaxation techniques or exercise
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals
• Avoid hair products that contain harsh chemicals
• Limit the use of styling tools that can irritate the scalp

Natural Remedies to Combat Scalp Issues

For those preferring natural approaches, several home remedies may help alleviate both dry scalp and dandruff symptoms:

• Tea tree oil: Known for its antifungal properties
• Aloe vera: Soothes and moisturizes the scalp
• Apple cider vinegar: Helps balance scalp pH
• Coconut oil: Provides deep moisture and has antifungal properties
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Promote scalp health from within

Do natural remedies work as effectively as medicated treatments? While natural remedies can be beneficial, their effectiveness may vary depending on the severity of the condition. For persistent or severe cases, medicated treatments are often more reliable.

Prevention Strategies for Healthy Scalp Maintenance

Preventing scalp issues is often easier than treating them. Here are some strategies to maintain a healthy scalp:

1. Establish a regular hair washing routine appropriate for your hair type
2. Use lukewarm water instead of hot water when washing your hair
3. Choose hair products that suit your scalp’s needs
4. Protect your scalp from extreme weather conditions
5. Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet
6. Manage stress levels through relaxation techniques or exercise
7. Avoid sharing hair accessories or tools to prevent fungal spread

How often should you wash your hair to prevent scalp issues? The ideal frequency varies depending on your hair type and scalp condition. Generally, washing every 2-3 days is suitable for most people, but those with oily scalps may benefit from daily washing.

When to Consult a Dermatologist for Scalp Concerns

While many scalp issues can be managed at home, there are instances when professional medical advice is necessary. Consider consulting a dermatologist if:

• Symptoms persist after a month of over-the-counter treatments
• Flaking worsens or spreads to other parts of the body
• The scalp becomes red, swollen, or painful
• You experience hair loss along with scalp issues
• Scalp problems interfere with daily life or cause significant distress

What can you expect during a dermatologist visit for scalp issues? A dermatologist will examine your scalp and may perform tests to rule out other conditions like psoriasis or eczema. They might also recommend prescription-strength treatments or specialized scalp therapies.

The Impact of Diet and Lifestyle on Scalp Health

The health of your scalp is not just influenced by external factors; internal aspects play a crucial role too. Consider the following dietary and lifestyle factors that can affect scalp condition:

Nutrition for Scalp Health:

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts
• Zinc: Present in whole grains, legumes, and lean meats
• Biotin: Available in eggs, nuts, and sweet potatoes
• Vitamin D: Obtained through sunlight exposure or supplements
• Probiotics: Found in yogurt, kefir, and fermented foods

How does diet impact scalp health? A balanced diet rich in these nutrients can help regulate oil production, support skin cell turnover, and maintain a healthy scalp microbiome.

Lifestyle Factors:

1. Stress management: Chronic stress can exacerbate scalp issues
2. Sleep quality: Adequate sleep supports overall skin health
3. Exercise: Promotes circulation and helps balance hormones
4. Hydration: Proper fluid intake supports skin hydration
5. Avoiding harmful habits: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can negatively impact scalp health

Can lifestyle changes alone resolve scalp issues? While lifestyle modifications can significantly improve scalp health, they often work best in conjunction with targeted treatments for specific conditions like dandruff or dry scalp.

Advanced Treatments and Emerging Research in Scalp Care

As our understanding of scalp health evolves, new treatments and research findings continue to emerge. Here are some advanced options and areas of ongoing study:

Innovative Treatments:

• Scalp microbiome treatments: Targeting beneficial bacteria to combat fungal overgrowth
• Light therapy: Using specific wavelengths of light to reduce inflammation and promote healing
• Personalized scalp care: Tailoring treatments based on individual scalp analysis
• Stem cell therapies: Exploring regenerative approaches for scalp health

What role does the scalp microbiome play in dandruff and dry scalp? Recent research suggests that the balance of microorganisms on the scalp significantly influences its health. Disruptions in this balance may contribute to conditions like dandruff.

Ongoing Research Areas:

1. Genetic factors influencing scalp conditions
2. Environmental impacts on scalp health
3. The relationship between scalp health and hair growth
4. Development of targeted probiotic treatments for the scalp
5. The role of the immune system in scalp disorders

How might future treatments for scalp issues differ from current approaches? Future treatments may focus more on preventive care, personalized solutions, and addressing root causes rather than just managing symptoms. This could lead to more effective, long-term solutions for common scalp problems.

Understanding the differences between dry scalp and dandruff is crucial for effective treatment. By identifying the specific condition affecting you, you can choose the most appropriate care routine. Remember that scalp health is influenced by various factors, including diet, lifestyle, and overall health. If over-the-counter treatments and home remedies don’t provide relief, don’t hesitate to consult a dermatologist for professional advice and treatment options.

Dandruff vs. Dry Scalp: What’s the Difference?

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Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Dry scalp is caused by a lack of moisture in the skin while dandruff is caused by an excess of oil on the scalp and an overgrowth of Malassezia yeast. Dandruff cannot be cured, but its symptoms can be managed with a specialized shampoo.

If you have a dry, flaking scalp, you may suspect dandruff. But it could be a symptom of dry scalp. Dandruff and dry scalp have the same main symptoms, which are falling flakes and an itchy scalp, but they’re two different conditions.

With dry scalp, your skin gets irritated and flakes off. With dandruff, the cause is too much oil on your scalp along with an overgrowth of yeast, called Malassezia, that’s already on your skin. That excess oil causes skin cells to build up and then shed. Knowing which of these conditions you have can help you get the right treatment and banish those flakes for good.

You get dry scalp when your skin has too little moisture. The skin on your scalp becomes irritated and flakes off. If your scalp is dry, the skin on other parts of your body, such as your arms and legs, could be dry too.

Dry scalp can also be triggered by factors such as these:

• cold, dry air
• contact dermatitis caused by a reaction to products you apply to your scalp, such as shampoo, styling gel, and hairspray
• older age
• the use of products that strip the natural oils from your skin

The skin cells on your scalp and body normally multiply when you need more of them. Then they die and shed off. During this process, your skin cells turn over on a regular basis or turn over faster in response to inflammation. When you have dandruff, skin cells on your scalp shed more quickly than usual.

The main cause of dandruff is seborrheic dermatitis, a condition that turns your skin oily, red, and scaly. The white or yellow scales flake off, creating dandruff. You can get seborrheic dermatitis anywhere you have oil glands, including your eyebrows, groin, armpits, chest, upper back, ears and along the sides of your nose. In babies it’s called cradle cap.

Often, a fungus called Malassezia triggers dandruff. This fungus normally lives on your scalp. If you have too much of it, though, it causes your skin cells to multiply more quickly than usual.

Certain factors can cause Malassezia to multiply, including:

• age
• hormones
• stress
• underlying medical conditions and nutritional deficiencies

Dirty hair doesn’t cause dandruff, but if you don’t wash your hair often enough, the oily buildup can contribute to flakes.

One way to tell the difference between dry scalp and flakes from dandruff is by their appearance. Dandruff flakes are bigger, and they look oily. In babies with cradle cap, their scalp looks scaly or crusty. Both dryness and dandruff can make your scalp itch.

The following is a comparison of the main symptoms of each condition:

You can treat most dandruff yourself with an over-the-counter shampoo. If you’ve tried a dandruff shampoo for at least a month and your flakes haven’t improved, they’re getting worse, or the skin on your scalp looks red or swollen, make an appointment with a dermatologist, a doctor who specializes in treating the skin. You might have another skin condition that needs to be treated.

A doctor or healthcare professional will determine whether you have dandruff by looking at your scalp and hair. They can rule out conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, which can also cause flaky skin on your scalp.

If you have dry scalp, wash with a gentle shampoo and then use a moisturizing conditioner. One way to tell whether you have dry scalp or dandruff is to apply a light moisturizer to your scalp before you go to bed. If the cause is dry scalp, the flakes should disappear once you shower the next morning. Some hair stylists can perform a scalp treatment that uses steam to deliver more moisture to your scalp.

Dandruff shampoo

For mild dandruff, wash your hair every day with a gentle shampoo to lower the amount of oil on your scalp. If your dandruff is more severe or a regular shampoo doesn’t work, try a dandruff shampoo.

Most dandruff shampoos contain medication that kills the fungus on your scalp or removes flaky skin. Here are some examples:

• Pyrithione zinc (Head and Shoulders, Jason Dandruff Relief 2 in 1) is an antifungal drug. It kills the fungus on your scalp that causes flaking. Pyrithione zinc shampoos are gentle enough to use every day.
• Selenium sulfide (Selsun Blue) lowers the amount of fungus and prevents too many skin cells from dying off. If you have blond or gray hair or dye your hair, ask a healthcare professional before using shampoo containing selenium sulfide. It can change your hair color.
• Ketoconazole (Nizoral) kills the fungus that causes dandruff. You can buy it in either over-the-counter or prescription strength.
• Salicylic acid (Neutrogena T/Sal) removes extra scales from your scalp before it can flake. Salicylic acid can dry out your skin and cause more flaking.
• Coal tar (Neutrogena T/Gel) slows the growth and shedding of skin cells on your scalp. Tar-based shampoos can also change your hair color if you have blond or gray hair.

Dandruff tea tree oil

Shampoos containing tea tree oil are an alternative remedy for dandruff. Tea tree oil is a natural ingredient with antifungal properties that some studies show treat dandruff. Some people are allergic to tea tree oil. Ask a doctor before you try it. Stop using the product if you have any redness or swelling.

No matter which dandruff shampoo you try, read the instructions on the bottle and follow them carefully. If you’re not sure which shampoo to use or how often to use it, ask a doctor or pharmacist for advice. You might have to try a few brands before you find one that relieves your dandruff.

Once your dandruff improves, you might be able to cut back on the number of days that you use the shampoo. For more stubborn dandruff, a doctor can prescribe a stronger shampoo or a topical steroid or topical antifungal.

Here are some tips to prevent dandruff and dry scalp:

If you have dandruff, wash your hair often with an antidandruff shampoo. Make sure to rinse out all the shampoo.

Avoid using hair products that contain harsh chemicals, such as bleach and alcohol. These ingredients can dry out your scalp. Also avoid oily hair products that can build up on your scalp.

Spend a few minutes out in the sun every day. There’s some evidence that ultraviolet (UV) light exposure can help control dandruff. You don’t want to get too much sun exposure, though, because it can increase your risk of skin cancer.

Manage your stress with meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and other relaxation techniques.

Dandruff isn’t curable. Most people will have to manage symptoms over the long term. Usually, the flakes will come and go. Treating dandruff with a special shampoo can manage your condition and prevent itching and flakiness.

Dandruff vs. Dry Scalp: What’s the Difference?

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Dry scalp is caused by a lack of moisture in the skin while dandruff is caused by an excess of oil on the scalp and an overgrowth of Malassezia yeast. Dandruff cannot be cured, but its symptoms can be managed with a specialized shampoo.

If you have a dry, flaking scalp, you may suspect dandruff. But it could be a symptom of dry scalp. Dandruff and dry scalp have the same main symptoms, which are falling flakes and an itchy scalp, but they’re two different conditions.

With dry scalp, your skin gets irritated and flakes off. With dandruff, the cause is too much oil on your scalp along with an overgrowth of yeast, called Malassezia, that’s already on your skin. That excess oil causes skin cells to build up and then shed. Knowing which of these conditions you have can help you get the right treatment and banish those flakes for good.

You get dry scalp when your skin has too little moisture. The skin on your scalp becomes irritated and flakes off. If your scalp is dry, the skin on other parts of your body, such as your arms and legs, could be dry too.

Dry scalp can also be triggered by factors such as these:

• cold, dry air
• contact dermatitis caused by a reaction to products you apply to your scalp, such as shampoo, styling gel, and hairspray
• older age
• the use of products that strip the natural oils from your skin

The skin cells on your scalp and body normally multiply when you need more of them. Then they die and shed off. During this process, your skin cells turn over on a regular basis or turn over faster in response to inflammation. When you have dandruff, skin cells on your scalp shed more quickly than usual.

The main cause of dandruff is seborrheic dermatitis, a condition that turns your skin oily, red, and scaly. The white or yellow scales flake off, creating dandruff. You can get seborrheic dermatitis anywhere you have oil glands, including your eyebrows, groin, armpits, chest, upper back, ears and along the sides of your nose. In babies it’s called cradle cap.

Often, a fungus called Malassezia triggers dandruff. This fungus normally lives on your scalp. If you have too much of it, though, it causes your skin cells to multiply more quickly than usual.

Certain factors can cause Malassezia to multiply, including:

• age
• hormones
• stress
• underlying medical conditions and nutritional deficiencies

Dirty hair doesn’t cause dandruff, but if you don’t wash your hair often enough, the oily buildup can contribute to flakes.

One way to tell the difference between dry scalp and flakes from dandruff is by their appearance. Dandruff flakes are bigger, and they look oily. In babies with cradle cap, their scalp looks scaly or crusty. Both dryness and dandruff can make your scalp itch.

The following is a comparison of the main symptoms of each condition:

You can treat most dandruff yourself with an over-the-counter shampoo. If you’ve tried a dandruff shampoo for at least a month and your flakes haven’t improved, they’re getting worse, or the skin on your scalp looks red or swollen, make an appointment with a dermatologist, a doctor who specializes in treating the skin. You might have another skin condition that needs to be treated.

A doctor or healthcare professional will determine whether you have dandruff by looking at your scalp and hair. They can rule out conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, which can also cause flaky skin on your scalp.

If you have dry scalp, wash with a gentle shampoo and then use a moisturizing conditioner. One way to tell whether you have dry scalp or dandruff is to apply a light moisturizer to your scalp before you go to bed. If the cause is dry scalp, the flakes should disappear once you shower the next morning. Some hair stylists can perform a scalp treatment that uses steam to deliver more moisture to your scalp.

Dandruff shampoo

For mild dandruff, wash your hair every day with a gentle shampoo to lower the amount of oil on your scalp. If your dandruff is more severe or a regular shampoo doesn’t work, try a dandruff shampoo.

Most dandruff shampoos contain medication that kills the fungus on your scalp or removes flaky skin. Here are some examples:

• Pyrithione zinc (Head and Shoulders, Jason Dandruff Relief 2 in 1) is an antifungal drug. It kills the fungus on your scalp that causes flaking. Pyrithione zinc shampoos are gentle enough to use every day.
• Selenium sulfide (Selsun Blue) lowers the amount of fungus and prevents too many skin cells from dying off. If you have blond or gray hair or dye your hair, ask a healthcare professional before using shampoo containing selenium sulfide. It can change your hair color.
• Ketoconazole (Nizoral) kills the fungus that causes dandruff. You can buy it in either over-the-counter or prescription strength.
• Salicylic acid (Neutrogena T/Sal) removes extra scales from your scalp before it can flake. Salicylic acid can dry out your skin and cause more flaking.
• Coal tar (Neutrogena T/Gel) slows the growth and shedding of skin cells on your scalp. Tar-based shampoos can also change your hair color if you have blond or gray hair.

Dandruff tea tree oil

Shampoos containing tea tree oil are an alternative remedy for dandruff. Tea tree oil is a natural ingredient with antifungal properties that some studies show treat dandruff. Some people are allergic to tea tree oil. Ask a doctor before you try it. Stop using the product if you have any redness or swelling.

No matter which dandruff shampoo you try, read the instructions on the bottle and follow them carefully. If you’re not sure which shampoo to use or how often to use it, ask a doctor or pharmacist for advice. You might have to try a few brands before you find one that relieves your dandruff.

Once your dandruff improves, you might be able to cut back on the number of days that you use the shampoo. For more stubborn dandruff, a doctor can prescribe a stronger shampoo or a topical steroid or topical antifungal.

Here are some tips to prevent dandruff and dry scalp:

If you have dandruff, wash your hair often with an antidandruff shampoo. Make sure to rinse out all the shampoo.

Avoid using hair products that contain harsh chemicals, such as bleach and alcohol. These ingredients can dry out your scalp. Also avoid oily hair products that can build up on your scalp.

Spend a few minutes out in the sun every day. There’s some evidence that ultraviolet (UV) light exposure can help control dandruff. You don’t want to get too much sun exposure, though, because it can increase your risk of skin cancer.

Manage your stress with meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and other relaxation techniques.

Dandruff isn’t curable. Most people will have to manage symptoms over the long term. Usually, the flakes will come and go. Treating dandruff with a special shampoo can manage your condition and prevent itching and flakiness.

Dry scalp – what to do if the scalp itches and flakes

Last updated: 01/22/2023

The scalp is sensitive and dry, itches a lot, flakes and seems to be tightened, the hair quickly loses its “freshness”, breaks, becomes electrified and falls out – a familiar picture? People who regularly experience these symptoms know firsthand how hard it is to focus on work and personal affairs when unbearable itching and dandruff now and then make themselves felt.

“Desert” on the head, as a rule, is the result of a violation of the sebaceous glands, which, in turn, can be caused by many reasons. Below we will look at a number of typical care mistakes, as well as some ailments that can become prerequisites for dryness and irritation of the scalp.

Dry scalp: causes

• Daily hot styling with blow dryer, flat iron or curling iron: exposure to hot air dehydrates the upper layers of the skin, which leads to the exfoliation of dead cells and the appearance of itching and dandruff. If during styling you use metal brushes or combs, then additionally cause mechanical damage to overdried skin.

• Allergic reactions to care and cosmetic products: shampoo that is not suitable for hair type, aggressive styling products (varnishes, mousses, foams), root masks with a dubious composition – all this can cause a deterioration in the condition of the hair and scalp. If symptoms appear soon after changing cosmetics, return to proven detergents and styling products.

• Hormonal failures: an increase in testosterone (male sex hormone) has a bad effect on female beauty, and hair suffers in the first place. You can also recognize the “enemy” by other signs: the appearance of acne, cycle failure, brittle nails. In this case, you need to urgently consult a doctor.

• Poor nutrition: a smart organism quickly reacts to beriberi and micronutrient deficiencies. If you adhere to extremes in nutrition, “indulge” in hunger strikes and mono-diets, then sooner or later the main indicator of health – hair – will point you to the problem: very dry scalp and itching are the lesser of evils in this situation.

• Fungal infection of the skin: pathogenic microflora living on the surface of the skin can cause not only dryness, but also hair loss. However, skin diseases should be treated under the supervision of a competent doctor.

• Violation of the drinking regime: is no longer a secret to anyone that the body needs at least 1 liter of clean water per day for normal functioning. Lack of fluid leads to dehydration of the skin, it acquires a grayish tint, peels off, reacts painfully to cosmetic procedures, and is prone to rashes.

• Bad habits: If you are a long-term smoker, changing your habits can greatly improve the condition of your skin. Alcohol and tobacco abuse can not only cause dry skin, but also lead to intense hair loss, as it negatively affects the functioning of blood vessels that feed the hair follicles.

• Pregnancy and lactation period: For the growth and development of the baby, nutrients are needed that the baby receives from the mother’s body. “Leakage” of vitamins and minerals can affect the condition of the skin and hair. In addition, pregnancy is accompanied by changes in the hormonal background. In any case, treatment during this period should be agreed with the doctor.

• Avitaminosis: dry scalp and weak hair are the result of a long-term lack of vitamin E (tocopherol acetate). If the skin itches and flakes, it means that the diet lacks vitamin A (retinol). Also, itching and hypersensitivity of the skin can be caused by a lack of B vitamins. But a deficiency of such an important trace element as iron can cause intense “hair loss”.

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ODM34zKu-Gc

Dry scalp diet

Sometimes just changing your eating habits is enough to make your skin and hair noticeably healthier. And by the word “diet” we do not mean at all a serious restriction of certain goodies, rather, on the contrary, the following types of products must appear on your table:

1. Rich in polyunsaturated (essential) fatty acids, in other words, useful fats . These are vegetable oils, nuts, grains, fatty fish, fish oil – foods rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6. Many girls avoid fat in their diet for fear of gaining weight, but this misconception is inspired by the remnants of the 90s, when it was fat in foods that was declared the main enemy of the female figure. By the way, ladies who cut fat heavily can suffer not only dry skin, but also other very serious ailments – menstrual irregularities, hormonal disruptions, brittle hair and nails.

2. Rich in animal and vegetable proteins . Meat, poultry, dairy products, eggs, fish, cheeses, legumes are sources of much-needed building blocks for the body, from which tissues are built. Especially prone to problems with skin and hair due to lack of protein in the diet of vegetarians. If you abstain from animal products, include soy, beans, chickpeas, tofu, corn, various nuts and seeds in your diet.
3. Vitamins and trace elements. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables every day, diversify your diet with salads, healthy desserts, fresh juices. Give preference to seasonal products that are familiar to your region.

Banned!

And now a few words about restrictions: reduce the use of coffee, caffeinated drinks and alcohol – they are useless in terms of nutritional value and severely dehydrate the skin. Sweet and savory foods contribute to a decrease in metabolism, which, in turn, interferes with normal cellular metabolism in the skin. The result is very dry scalp, face and body, hair loss, brittle nails.

We wash our hair properly

What to do if the scalp is dry and itchy, but already on the second day after washing, a greasy sheen appears on the hair? This is a typical situation for dry hair, so it is important to learn how to properly wash your hair.

• Apply a nourishing mask to hair and scalp before washing. You will find several effective recipes below.

• Find the right shampoo for your hair type . Rinse hair thoroughly. Remaining cosmetics and detergents will “steal” the shine of the hair, and also provoke skin itching. Poorly washed curls quickly lose their freshness and look dirty by the evening.

• Do not rub your head with a towel. It damages the hair structure and adversely affects sensitive skin.

• Try to dry your hair naturally. Save the hair dryer as a last resort.

• Do not comb wet hair. Start combing only when the hair is dry.

How to treat dry scalp with ALERANA

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The ALERANA® hair care line is designed to stimulate hair growth and restore its structure. ALERANA® shampoo for dry and normal hair perfectly nourishes and moisturizes dry, irritated skin and strengthens hair follicles, preventing curls from falling out.

Sources:

1. Kolosova Svetlana, Hair care. Publisher: Scientific book, 2013
2. Weiner A.M. Hair Care – Moscow: Ministry of Public Utilities of the RSFSR, 1959
3. G. Saigusheva, Beautiful hair is simple. Publisher: “Publishing Solutions”, 2018

Clinical researches

For accurate diagnosis, contact a specialist.

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What to do if the scalp itches and flakes

During the war, many chronic diseases worsen in women, as well as new skin and hair problems. ELLE.UA beauty editor Lena Babitskaya learned from Yulia Sedletskaya, a hair and scalp rehabilitation specialist with 14 years of experience, the founder of the Hair Rehabilitation Center, how to prevent scalp dryness and what to do if it has already appeared.

Every person naturally has the largest number of sebaceous and sweat glands on the scalp, as it is the excretory system. Sebaceous and sweat secretions create a microbiome on the skin, which includes a water-lipid mantle, keratinized epidermal cells, fungi and bacteria. When you have the right shampoo, diet and food quality, enough water per day, the microbiome will be absolutely healthy and there will be no dryness.

First, let’s understand what dry scalp is. It often occurs in people after 50 years of age due to a violation of cell division, thickening of the epidermis, and the dermal and hypodermal layers, in which the sebaceous and sweat glands are located, on the contrary, become thinner. This causes dryness of the scalp. At the same time, a person can wash his hair once every seven days “for the sake of decency”, since the hair almost does not get dirty.

Many curly girls consider themselves owners of dry scalp. In fact, everything is not so simple: in this case, consultation with a trichologist and a dermatologist is necessary. The fact is that curly hair is, in principle, very dry, and sebum secretions are evenly distributed throughout the cuticular layer. And the skin at the same time can be normal or prone to oily.

The structure of the hair or the flaking of the scalp due to the wrong shampoo, poor hygiene can be misleading. This, in turn, leads to the development of a microbiome and alkalization of the skin, which reacts with peeling. Remember: flaky scalp is not an indicator of dry skin.

How does dry skin manifest itself?

Actually, dry skin doesn’t always flake. Dry skin is usually tight, very thin, cracked, looks like desert earth, and there are no sweat and sebaceous secrets inside the mouths of the hair follicles. However, such a picture is rarely seen in young girls, most often it happens with age.

What you need to moisturize a dry type of scalp:

1. Care for the scalp is the same as for the face. There are special preparations with amino acids, proteins that moisturize the epidermis. Many owners of dry scalp make the mistake of introducing oils into their hair diet. Oils are generally good for dry skin, but if the molecule of this product is too large, it can clog the mouth of the hair follicle and clog pores. This will lead to the fact that the normal exfoliation of dead cells will not be carried out and dermatitis, dandruff and other problems may occur. Pay attention to ingredients and use hydrolyzed formulations that have a low molecular weight and are able to penetrate the scalp rather than coat it.

2. Taking 30 to 70 grams of vegetable oils per day is a great way to moisturize your scalp from the inside out. It also contributes to a large amount of greens and leafy vegetables in the diet. The fact is that a lack of folic acid can lead to a lack of moisture in the skin and a violation of cell division. In the summer, lean on greens to make up for its deficiency.

3. If you have dry scalp, it is important to choose the right shampoo. It should have moisturizing ingredients: coconut, almond, argan oils.