HELP! Dry Scalp, Dandruff and an itchy scalp!

White flakes falling from your scalp? Is your scalp super itchy and irritated? Is it creating build up in your dreadlocks? You could be dealing with either Dry Scalp or Dandruff! Between the both, there are different methods to treat and manage these conditions.

What’s the difference?

Dry Scalp – Dry Scalp in short, occurs when the scalp does not produce or hold enough moisture. This can cause visible flakes in hair and clothes as well as irritate the scalp and become itchy.

Dandruff – Dandruff are dread skin cells which look white and cause scalp irritation. There’s a few potential causes of dandruff which include fungal infection of the scalp, oils secreted by the scalp or sensitivity to substances such as hair products.

Severe cases may be a different condition like Scalp Psoriasis which is an autoimmune disorder. Scalp Psoriasis has the same symptoms but also causes redness and intense painful inflammation.

It is recommended if no home remedies help to seek medical advice as it could be different issue over dry scalp and dandruff.

How can I tell the difference between Dry Scalp and Dandruff?

You’re not alone! Most people find it difficult to tell the difference between the two but here’s a simple why to tell:

- Dry Scalp flakes are small and white vs Dandruff fakes that are larger and may be yellow tinged or look oily.

- Flakes are more likely dandruff if the scalp feels oily, intense scalp itching and scalp doesn’t feel dry or hair looks greasy.

I have Dandruff, how do I treat it?

There are few different types of shampoos that can help manage dandruff and range in options depending what you like best!

- Anti-Dandruff Shampoos: There are loads of different types and most include Pyrithione as an ingredient. Use once a week max. You can mix it up with your dreadlock shampoo if you didn’t want to stop using your dreadlock shampoo.

- Coal Tar Shampoo: Coal tar is a by-product of the production of coke and coal which is use medically to typically treat Skin Psoriasis or Dandruff. You can by this over the counter and it helps stop the rapid growth of skin cells and helps restore skin.

- Tea Tree Shampoo: People who prefer natural remedies can try a Tea Tree Shampoo to help with dandruff. Tea tree is natural and has antimicrobial properties which help to manage dandruff.

- Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple Cider Vinigar (ACV) has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties which makes is an effective treatment for dandruff. Use with or before shampooing so that you don’t smell like vinegar after.

Scientists have yet to fully understand dandruff and there are no guarantees with any dandruff treatments. If symptoms persist, it’s advised to get medical advice to further understand if your dandruff is bacterial issue or fungal infection.

I have Dry Scalp, how do I treat it?

There are a few things you can do to help manage and treat your dry scalp that are simple and you can do at home.

- Shampoo: Shampoos can irritate dry scalp and cause it to inflame. Natural shampoos with essential oils a big culprit of this as they can dry your scalp due to the essential oils. Switching to a more moisturising shampoo can help.

- Wash your hair 1 x a week: You might be thinking I’m mad BUT hear me out! Every time you wash your hair with shampoo your stripping it from its natural oils to clean it. If your hair is already lacking natural oil and moister due to dry scalp, its recommended to train your hair to be washed once a week.

- DRINK MORE WATER: Like a tree, we need sufficient water for our hair and body to be fruitful. Be mindful of your water intake it and increase if you’re falling short of your daily water intake

- OIL: A little oil on your scalp can go a long way when managing dry scalp. Scalp oils can help to add and seal in moisture as well as soften patches of built-up dry skin. It important when you have dreadlocks to not use too much and to limit it to your scalp only so that you don’t end up with oily dreadlocks. Jojaba oil is recommended.

- Apple Cider Vinegar - Apple Cider Vinigar (ACV) also can restore the pH balance of the scalp naturally and is another treatment for dry scalp. Use with or before shampooing so that you don’t smell like vinegar after.

So whether you have Dry Scalp or Dandruff, no stress, there are ways to manage and treat these conditions! If you have any more question don’t hesitate to contact me to ask.

Peace

Steph