Itchy scalp can be irritating and embarrassing at times, especially during summers. There are several products available in the market these days to combat this issue, but these remedies would not last for long. Some popular home remedies for itchy scalp that can help you eliminate this problem are discussed here.
You should notice your scalp carefully, whether the scalp is dry, having dandruff or lice or sweating is the cause behind itchy scalp. If these are the issues then you can move on towards home remedies. But, if you still find problem in the scalp like swelling, oozing or bleeding etc. for several weeks after using natural methods, then you must meet your dermatologist.
Natural Remedies for Itchy Scalp
The following are a few effective home remedies for itchy scalp:
Sesame oil: Pure sesame oil can help combat dryness in scalp and relieves itching. Take some warm oil onto your palm and massage directly on the scalp before going to bed. Massage gently with finger tips for at least 10 minutes. Then wrap your head with a warm towel for 10 minutes as this will help open the pores. The next morning, thoroughly shampoo your hair. Try this for a few weeks to get relief from itchy scalp.
Tea Tree Oil: This is a natural and potent antibacterial and anti fungal agent for combating against dandruff. Its regular massage on the scalp helps reduce skin flakiness, itchiness and dryness. 2 to 3 drops of tea tree oil should be diluted with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and then applied onto the scalp.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This remedy if used twice a week can help relieve from itchy and dry scalp as it helps balance the pH levels of the scalp. Mix ¼ cup of apple cider vinegar with equal amounts of water and pour in a spray bottle. Thoroughly saturate the hair and scalp by spraying and then wrap head with a towel for about 15 to 30 minutes. Wash and rinse properly to get rid of itchy scalp.
Banana, honey and onion hair mask: Honey is a natural moisturizer and has antibiotic properties. Mix 2 tablespoons of honey with a mashed ripe banana and onion juice. Apply this paste to the scalp, leaving for 15 to 25 minutes. Wash your hair with shampoo and rinse properly. This mask will help remove inflammation, flaking and dandruff on the scalp.
Head lice are one of the most common causes of itchy scalp. It is very common in school children and is spread primarily through using shared combs, personal items, clothes, hats or brushes. Lice infection causes severe itching in the affected area. On intense scratching the skin breaks out that further complicates the problem and opens the area for further bacterial infections.
Pyrethrin Shampoos – Non prescription shampoos or creams that contain pyrethrin are very effective in treating lice. It should be applied on the hairs for 10 minutes and then rinsed properly. Using the shampoos does not remove all the lice and nits. The nits should be removed manually after the treatment with the help of fine tooth comb or carefully searching and removing them manually.
Along with the above home remedies, you should also practice drinking 8 to 10 glasses of water everyday as it will help you provide hydration and reduces the problem of skin dryness. Take Vitamin E supplements as they are essential for healthy skin and also keep a check on hydration in the skin. You must include foods rich in Vitamin A, B, C, zinc and fatty acids to combat itchy scalp.