Have you noticed your scalp feeling tight or uncomfortable? If you have, you may be suffering with a dry scalp. It might not be spoken about much, but a dry scalp is quite a common condition, so it’s likely that at some point you’ll experience it. A dry scalp can be brought on by a number of causes, from the change in temperature in the seasons to a reaction to styling products or even something as simple as not drinking enough water.
5 steps for getting rid of a dry scalp
Whatever the cause of your dehydrated scalp, there are ways to help remedy it with the right dry scalp treatment. From the best dry scalp shampoo to cutting back on heat styling, discover the best tips for combating dry scalp, below.
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Step 1. Don’t get it mixed up with dandruff
Before you start addressing how to get rid of dry scalp, you first need to figure out whether your scalp is actually dry or if you have dandruff. It’s easy to confuse a dry scalp with dandruff as they share some of the same symptoms (like itchiness and flaking). However, they are two different and distinct conditions that require their own treatment.
Dry scalp occurs when the scalp loses too much moisture and becomes tight, due to factors we mentioned above, like cold weather, dehydration and excess hair product. Dandruff, however, is largely associated with Malassezia, a yeast-like fungus that breeds on oily scalps. When your scalp’s natural protection is weakened, irritants made by Malassezia feed on the excess oil. This leads to irritation and skin cells shedding faster than usual, causing dandruff.
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Step 2. Stay hydrated
The first step to get your scalp in shape is to go back to basics. Drinking eight glasses of water daily seems simple enough, but we're all guilty of under-hydrating ourselves on a busy day. Start setting phone reminders throughout the day to get your hourly dose of water and remember to stock up on hydration in particularly hot or cold climates that can be harsher on your scalp. You might be surprised how quickly you notice the difference.
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Step 3. Use a nourishing shampoo
Using the wrong shampoo may worsen your dry scalp by stripping away any leftover oils and hasten the discomfort and dandruff. Confused by all the choice? You could look at specially formulated nourishing shampoos like CLEAR Complete Soft Care Anti-Dandruff Shampoo. This CLEAR scalp shampoo, nourishes the hair and scalp and helps to restore its your it’s protective barrier.
Follow up with a scalp conditioner specifically designed to work with your scalp shampoo that will help to further hydrate your scalp.
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Step 4. Use less heat
Styling isn't just limited to curlers and straighteners, as even regularly using a blow-dryer on your hair can damage and dry out your scalp. Go easy on the heat and air dry as often as possible to let your scalp breathe and stay hydrated. Next time you want a different look, why not try out some fun new heatless hairstyles instead?
Now that you know how to recognise the signs and how to get rid of dry scalp, your hair and scalp will be feeling fresh and healthy in no time. If the discomfort persists or gets any worse, we recommend going to see your doctor for an expert opinion – they’ll be able to prescribe you with the right medicated dry scalp treatment if needed.
