Dry scalp: our natural solutions
Publié le 23-02-2021 et mis à jour le 16-10-2024
The scalp is a very delicate area that requires our full attention to prevent dandruff, itching, and excess sebum. Many people suffer from dry scalp problems. Understanding and knowing its causes is the first step to improving its hair health and finding suitable solutions.
I. The causes of a dry scalp
A. Symptoms and signs
1. Itching
Itchy scalp is often the first sign of a dry scalp. It can be caused by a multitude of factors, including harsh hair products, climate changes, or stress.
2. Irritation
Scalp irritation can manifest as redness and a burning sensation. This may be due to allergens present in certain hair care products or prolonged exposure to the sun.
3. Hair loss
A dry scalp can also lead to hair loss. When the scalp is dehydrated, hair follicles can become fragile and hair may fall out more easily.
4. Dead skin and dandruff
The presence of dead skin and dandruff is another common sign of a dry scalp. These white particles can be visible on the hair and clothing, often causing embarrassment.
5. Very dry scalp that itches
A very dry scalp can cause intense itching, making the situation even more uncomfortable. It is essential to treat this problem to avoid further damage to the scalp.
B. The different types
1. In humans
Men can also suffer from dry scalp, often due to the use of harsh hair products or frequent shaving. The solutions to soothe and hydrate the scalp are similar to those recommended for women.
2. Fat and dry hair
It is possible to have an oily scalp and dry hair. This can be due to excessive sebum production by the scalp, while the lengths of the hair remain dehydrated. A balance must be found to treat both problems simultaneously.
3. And curly hair
Kinky hair is particularly prone to dryness due to its spiral structure, which prevents sebum from spreading evenly. Specific and moisturizing care is necessary to maintain a healthy scalp and well-nourished hair.
4. Very dry and flaky
A very dry scalp is often accompanied by dandruff. Dandruff consists of flakes of dead skin that detach from the scalp. It is important to use gentle and moisturizing products to treat this problem.
C. External factors
1. Climate and environment
Climatic conditions can greatly affect the health of the scalp. Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can disrupt the natural balance of the skin. Dry air in winter as well as prolonged exposure to the sun in summer can both contribute to scalp dehydration.
2. Harsh hair products
Some hair products contain harsh ingredients that can irritate and dry out the scalp. Shampoos containing sulfates, for example, can strip natural oils, while chemical dyes and hair treatments can also cause damage. It is essential to choose gentle products suited to your hair type.
3. Stress and lifestyle
Stress and an unbalanced lifestyle can have a negative impact on scalp health. Chronic stress can disrupt sebum production, leading to an unbalanced scalp. Additionally, a diet poor in essential nutrients can also contribute to dryness.
D. Internal factors
1. Hormonal imbalances
Hormonal variations can influence scalp health. For example, hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, menopause, or due to certain medical conditions can cause scalp dryness. Hormones play a crucial role in regulating sebum production, and any imbalance can affect this regulation.
2. Underlying health conditions
Certain health conditions can also cause a dry scalp. Dermatological conditions such as eczema or psoriasis can lead to dryness and irritation. Additionally, thyroid problems can also affect scalp health. It is important to consult a healthcare professional for an appropriate diagnosis.
3. Aging
The natural aging process can also contribute to scalp dryness. With age, sebum production decreases, which can lead to a loss of hydration and drier skin. It is therefore crucial to adapt your hair care routine to meet the changing needs of your scalp over time.
E. Bad hair habits
1. Too frequent washing
Washing hair too frequently can strip the scalp of its natural oils, leading to dehydration. It is recommended to space out washes and use gentle shampoos to preserve the natural balance of the scalp.
2. Excessive use of heat
Frequent use of heating devices such as hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons can cause damage and dry out the scalp. It is advisable to limit the use of these devices and apply heat protectants to minimize damage.
3. Tight hairstyles
Hairstyles that are too tight, such as ponytails, braids, or buns, can put pressure on the scalp and disrupt blood circulation. This can lead to irritation and increased dryness. It is better to opt for looser hairstyles to avoid these problems.
II. How to treat a dry scalp?
A. Solutions to soothe it
1. Take care of your diet
What is on our plate plays an essential role for our hair and treating a dry scalp! First of all, it is necessary to avoid the regular consumption of cold cuts, red meats, refined flour, white sugar, ...
Diet and hair are linked.
To avoid having a dry scalp and to regain strong hair, it is necessary to consume proteins to produce quality keratin, which is the major component of hair.
Proteins are mainly found in meats and fish which contain amino acids that are precursors to keratin. Fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help to hydrate and nourish the dry scalp. But they are also found in eggs, cheese, quinoa, legumes, lentils, …
Beyond proteins, a lack of B vitamins can lead to health problems related to a dry scalp such as hair loss, itching and scratching of the dry scalp, and dandruff.
Vitamin B is therefore also very valuable for our hair. It supports growth and strengthens the hair. It is mainly found in cereal products.
2. Hair dietary supplements
For people who do not have a healthy and balanced diet, a hair dietary supplement can help and be the solution to fill a gap in their diet.
At D-LAB NUTRICOSMETICS, we offer hair supplements suited to all types of hair problems: hair loss, fine hair, gray, damaged, dry scalp, ... no matter our hair type, to have a healthy mane you need to take care of our hair fiber.
To sustainably rebalance your scalp, we recommend:
The Growth Complex to accelerate hair growth and strengthen it, deeply nourishes the hair bulb by providing it with a high dose of all the active components of keratin, and stimulates its activity thanks to an innovative complex of bamboo and rocket extracts.
The Hair Mass Program, which is a comprehensive program composed of 3 formulas that work together to restore imbalances and densify hair mass.
At the heart of this program, 22 active ingredients work in synergy to address hair loss and increase hair mass. Thanks to a pure and innovative keratin, the program has an anti-hair loss effect and stimulates hair regrowth, two activities demonstrated by a clinical study 1.
3. Balance activator
An expert formula composed of 15 active ingredients that work in synergy to rebalance the body. It stimulates serotonin, regulates neuro-hormonal activity, promotes restorative sleep, and provides daily vitality.
4. Keratin Absolute
A gem of French Green-Tech that revitalizes the most demanding, damaged, and tired hair. A powerful anti-hair loss treatment, it delivers a high dose of patented and perfectly absorbable keratin to fill in gaps, provide structure, and increase volume.
5. Microcirculation Detox
To purify, reoxygenate, and deeply nourish the tissues, this mineral and plant-based formula promotes the elimination of toxins, stimulates circulation in the microvessels, and facilitates the delivery of essential nutrients to the heart of the dermis.
B. Best practices in daily life
1. Use mild shampoos
Gentle and sulfate-free shampoos are essential to preserve the natural balance of the scalp. Sulfates, often found in traditional shampoos, can be too harsh and remove the natural oils that protect and hydrate the scalp. Choosing shampoos formulated with natural and gentle ingredients, such as aloe vera or chamomile, can help maintain optimal hydration.
2. Space out the washes
It is recommended to space out hair washes to avoid depriving the scalp of its natural oils. Washing hair every two to three days helps preserve these essential oils and maintain a balanced scalp. On no-shampoo days, dry shampoo can be used to refresh the hair without wetting it.
3. Massage the scalp
Scalp massage stimulates blood circulation, which can help nourish hair follicles and promote hair growth. Using the fingertips to gently massage the scalp in circular motions for a few minutes each day can also help reduce stress, a contributing factor to dryness.
4. Protect against external attacks
External aggressions, such as the sun, wind, and pollution, can dry out the scalp. It is important to protect your hair and scalp by wearing a hat or using hair products with UV protection. Additionally, rinsing the hair after exposure to chlorinated pool water can also prevent dehydration.
5. Avoid heating devices
Frequent use of heating devices such as hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons can damage the scalp and hair. It is best to let hair air dry as much as possible. If the use of a heating device is necessary, it is advisable to apply a heat protectant to minimize damage.
D. Natural ingredients to prioritize
1. Jojoba oil
Jojoba oil is particularly beneficial for moisturizing and nourishing the scalp. Its composition is similar to that of the sebum produced by our scalp, making it an excellent natural moisturizer. Applying a few drops of jojoba oil and gently massaging can help reduce dryness while adding shine to the hair.
2. Aloe vera gel
Aloe vera gel has moisturizing and soothing properties that can relieve irritations and deeply hydrate. Applying pure aloe vera gel directly to the scalp and leaving it on for 30 minutes before rinsing can help calm itching and nourish the hair.
3. Shea butter
Rich in vitamins and fatty acids, shea butter is a nourishing ingredient that can help restore hydration. It can be applied in small amounts to the scalp and hair to provide intense hydration and protect against external aggressions.
4. Castor oil
Known for its fortifying and moisturizing properties, castor oil can be used to improve scalp health. Massaging a small amount of castor oil onto the scalp and leaving it on for a few hours or overnight before washing the hair can help strengthen hair follicles and increase hair shine.
E. Specific care
1. Product to soothe
Hair products based on panthenol, vitamin B5, and betaine are recommended for their soothing effect; they create a protective and moisturizing film on the surface of the dry scalp.
2. Care to relieve him
Essential oils are included in the hair care routine, which also help combat irritations caused by a dry scalp. Tea tree clarifies and cleanses the skin, and lavender soothes itching.
Mix the coconut oil with a few drops of tea tree and lavender essential oils, then massage your dry scalp with this mixture. Let it sit for 30 minutes before your shampoo.
3. Specific treatment
When we have a dry scalp, we tend to use hair oils that are too greasy and thus end up with the opposite problem; greasy substances must be handled with care. Coconut oil, on the other hand, helps treat scalp dryness and thus gently eliminates dandruff.
First of all, it is important to avoid shampoos that are too harsh and prefer a gentle and moisturizing shampoo based on eggs or urea that leaves the hair clean without irritating the scalp. Anti-dandruff shampoos should be used in moderation. It is also necessary to avoid hairstyles that are too tight (bun, braids, or ponytail), letting the hair loose is ideal.
F. Gestures to avoid
1. Avoid harsh chemicals
Products containing sulfates, parabens, and silicones can worsen scalp dryness. It is better to choose hair care products with natural ingredients and without harsh chemicals. Additionally, frequent hair coloring can also be a cause of this dryness. Opting for ammonia-free and less frequent coloring can help maintain the natural balance of the scalp.
2. Do not scratch or rub excessively
Scratching or rubbing the scalp excessively can cause irritation and inflammation. It is important to adopt gentle actions when washing and drying the hair. Using microfiber towels and avoiding vigorous combing can help prevent damage.
3. Avoid hairstyles that are too tight
Hairstyles that are too tight, such as high ponytails or tight braids, can put excessive pressure on the scalp and hair follicles. It is advisable to choose looser hairstyles and to leave the hair free as much as possible to avoid pulling and damage.
4. Limit the use of styling products
Styling products such as gels, mousses, and hairsprays can contain drying ingredients. Limiting their use and choosing alcohol-free styling products can help maintain scalp hydration. Additionally, it is important to rinse the hair thoroughly to remove any product buildup.
G. Professional treatments
1. Consultation with a dermatologist
If dryness persists despite home care, it may be helpful to consult a dermatologist. This healthcare professional can assess the condition of the scalp and recommend specific treatments, such as medicated lotions or therapeutic shampoos, which may be more effective for treating severe cases.
2. Care in institute
Professional salon treatments, such as steam-based treatments, scalp massages, and intensive hair masks, can also be beneficial. These treatments are often formulated with highly concentrated ingredients and can offer faster and longer-lasting results. Additionally, hair care experts can provide personalized advice and product recommendations.
3. Light therapy
Light therapy, or phototherapy, uses special lights to treat various scalp conditions. This method can help stimulate blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and encourage hair growth. It is generally performed in a dermatology office and can be an option for those seeking advanced solutions.
By combining these different approaches, it is possible to effectively treat scalp dryness and restore healthy, shiny hair. It is important to remain patient and follow a regular care routine to achieve the best results.
