Dry scalp occurs as a result of lack of hydration (German News Agency)
The problem of dry scalp represents a major challenge for many women, especially in the winter. In cold weather, hair appears dull and lifeless, and it is easy to split or even fall out if left untreated.
The difference between dry scalp and dandruff
The American Academy of Dermatology website quotes dermatologist Deirdre Hooper as saying that dry scalp is a fairly common complaint, as a layer of dandruff forms on the scalp as a result of its irritation and the skin’s inability to produce enough sebum and natural oils that keep the skin moisturized. .
Hooper advises that it is necessary to consult a specialist doctor for diagnosis and to develop a proper treatment plan, especially since the symptoms of dry scalp are similar to and overlap with the symptoms of dandruff and some other skin diseases.
According to Huber, dry scalp occurs as a result of a lack of hydration, and results in relatively small white skin flakes that stick to the hair, accompanied by some itching and tightness.
As for dandruff, it does not always indicate a scalp infection. On the contrary, its most important causes are increased hair oiliness and excessive hydration, which results in the Malassezia fungus or yeast that lives on the skin and feeds on excess fat, causing fatty crusts that stick to the hair that can sometimes clump and appear with it. Hair is oily.
Excessive washing of hair strips it of natural oils and causes dryness of the scalp (German News Agency)
Causes of dry scalp
There are several factors that affect the likelihood of scalp dryness, including:
Excessive hair washing:
This is one of the causes of dry scalp, because it strips it of natural oils.
Environmental factors:
Low humidity and dry winds in the winter exacerbate the problem of dry scalp. Exposure to ultraviolet rays and high temperatures in the summer also lead to dryness and flaking of the scalp.
Genetic factors:
Dry scalp is hereditary, so if one of your parents suffers from dry scalp, you may experience the same thing.
Diet:
A lack of fats secreted by the sebaceous glands causes dryness of the scalp, so it is recommended to follow a diet rich in essential fatty acids such as flax seeds, walnuts, and salmon, and reduce drinking coffee and eating sugars.
Hair care products:
Dermatologists advise staying away from the scalp area when using dyes and chemical hair treatments, so as not to cause contact dermatitis as an allergic reaction, which leads to itching, redness, and peeling, and Dr. Anar Mikalov, a dermatologist, explains to the “Cosmabolten” website: One of the causes of dry scalp is the use of shampoo without conditioner, as well as the use of products containing harsh ingredients such as parabens, sodium lauryl sulfate, artificial fragrances, or the use of hairspray.
Other skin diseases
: Some skin diseases, such as ringworm, eczema, psoriasis, and seborrheic or atopic dermatitis, cause dry scalp.
Following a comprehensive hair care routine that includes moisturizing products helps eliminate dry scalp (Shutterstock)
How do you get rid of dry scalp?
Follow a comprehensive
scalp and hair care routine that includes moisturizing products and look for shampoos that contain moisturizing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, keratin, and essential fatty acids.
Massage the scalp
before shampooing using your fingertips in circular motions to remove the accumulation of oils and dead skin cells. Use an antifungal medical shampoo that contains ingredients such as zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole, and salicylic acid.
Leave
the medical shampoo
on the scalp for about 5 minutes until its medicinal ingredients penetrate the scalp. According to the Prevention website, Dr. Stephanie Millis, director of the American Dermatology Clinical Trials Unit, advises applying the medical shampoo to the scalp area only, and if the rest of your hair is in Need to lather, simply use your favorite shampoo from mid-length to ends.
Stay away from stress,
and make sure to drink enough water to keep the scalp hydrated (6 to 8 cups per day).
Home and natural treatments
The "Healthline" website reports some natural and home remedies that relieve dry scalp, such as:
Coconut oil:
Its antifungal properties help reduce the risk of infection. You can massage a small amount into the scalp and leave it for at least 10 minutes before washing the hair.
Tea tree oil:
It acts as a powerful antibiotic that can relieve dry scalp. It is preferable to mix it with a carrier oil such as coconut oil or olive oil, then massage the scalp and leave it for 10 minutes before washing it.
Aloe Vera:
It reduces skin irritation and is an effective moisturizer. Just apply aloe vera gel to your scalp and leave it for 10 minutes before washing it.
Apple cider vinegar:
It works as an antimicrobial that causes itching, and helps in exfoliating the scalp. Massage the scalp with a mixture of half a cup of water and another of apple cider vinegar, and leave it for 5 minutes.
Apple cider vinegar: acts as an antimicrobial that causes itching (Getty Images)
Baking soda and olive oil:
This combination is a good option, as the moisture provided by olive oil and the antifungal properties of baking soda can treat the scalp.
Certified dermatologist Lucy Chen tells Real Simple: Mix two tablespoons of baking soda and water to form a thick paste, then section your hair, apply some drops of olive oil, then the baking soda paste and leave it on the scalp for 10 to 15 minutes before washing it. With shampoo and conditioner.
Banana, honey and avocado mask:
It can be applied once a week. Apply the mixture to the scalp and leave it for 30 minutes before rinsing it off.
In general, itching resulting from dry scalp may result in open wounds, which, if not taken care of, can become inflamed or infected, so you should consult a doctor before applying any oils or using any home remedies that may irritate the wound.
Source: websites