Dandruff and Dry, Itchy Scalp Remedies: Myths & Facts

Have you been fighting dandruff and dry itchy scalp with no signs of improvement? Have you been using the same old hair care remedies but not getting the results you're looking for?

Maybe you've got it all wrong. Your intentions are pure, but your methods are lacking. 

Hair care remedies are trending and everybody is loco about them. There are so many sources out there offering lots of information. Some work, but most of them are wrong and even harmful.

We did some research and were able tounravel some myths and facts we’d love to share with you.

The Biggest Myth of Them All

Most of us have been living with the idea that dandruff is caused by dry scalp (can you say “WRONG”).

Dandruff and dry itchy scalp are two very different conditions. Facts loading…...

Dry scalp is a condition with many causes. It could be:

• Dry cold air (during winter)
• Using the wrong shampoo
• Excessive washing
• Other skin conditions like eczema.

Dandruff, however, is caused by excessive oil build-up on your scalp. An oily scalp creates a favorable environment for a type of yeast causing dandruff. However, these two conditions have similar symptoms and they’re both embarrassing. The most common symptom is the occurrence of dry white flakes.

Popular Hair Care Remedies That DON’T Work

1. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a staple product in our homes. It's used in the kitchen, it's a powerful skin moisturizer, and it has now made its way into our hair. However, coconut oil might not be such a good idea for those battling dry itchy scalp.

Coconut is indeed naturally rich in fatty acids, anti-microbial properties, and lauric acid that allows it to easily slip into your hair. In fact, coconut is the best oil for hair protein retention.

It locks in moisture and proteins by temporarily blocking pores and coating hair strands. Coconut oil will cut off the supply of moisture and worsen the condition for those suffering from dry scalps.

Myth:Coconut oil is a permanent universal remedy for those suffering from dandruff and dry itchy scalp.

Fact:Coconut is a powerful occlusive moisturizer and thus, not compatible with all hair types. It might spell bad news to those with low porosity hair that has difficulties absorbing moisture. Coconut oil is best suited for lackluster hair that is lacking natural protein. Even then, it’s a temporary fix and you should opt for a long-term solution.

2. Egg and Mayonnaise

Your hair needs Keratin protein to be healthy and strong.

Many people are familiar with the Egg and Mayonnaise hair care remedy that is supposed to strengthen, moisturize, and condition your hair. However, many have had to deal with the eggs' horrible smell without getting the desired results. 

Myth:Raw eggs will provide the necessary amino acids that will strengthen and moisturize your hair. Some also insist that raw eggs will offer long-term treatment for those with brittle and lackluster hair.

Fact:Raw eggs are indeed a rich source of protein. However, your hair can't absorb amino acids from raw eggs (they need to be broken down into amino acids by a process known as hydrolysis). Only then, will your hair be provided with amino acids that will moisturize and restore its luster. In fact, prolonged use of raw eggs will make your hair brittle and prone to breakage. 

Hair Care Remedies That DO Work

1. Aloe Vera

This is the best natural hair care remedy for dry, itchy scalp. 

This thick-leaved beauty is already famous in the skincare industry because of its healing properties.

Its now doing wonders in the hair care industry by:

• Strengthening hair
• Calming itchiness
• Clearing oily hair and scalp
• Boosting hair growth

100% natural aloe vera gel is rich in Vitamins A, C, and E that are crucial for cell regeneration and provides new cells for your scalp. 

Fortunately, aloe vera has no side effects apart from the minor cases of allergic reactions. In addition to that, it’s very gentle and can be used by both dry and oily skin types.

Instructions for treating dry, itchy scalp

You're advised to use100% natural and unprocessed aloe vera from your kitchen garden.

• Massage the gel onto your hair and scalp
• Let it rest for an hour
• Wash with a mild shampoo and rinse

2. Tea Tree Oil

This has got to be the best hair care remedy for dandruff.

It possesses antiseptic properties that enable it to clear skin infections.

A small amount of diluted tea tree oil can do wonders for your hair such as:

• Treating dandruff thanks to its anti-fungal properties
• Treating dry scalp by nourishing your hair and unclogging pores so that your scalp can easily absorb moisture
• Getting rid of hair lice
• Boosting hair growth

Unlike many artificial hair care products that strip your hair of its natural oils and alter its structure, tea tree oil is a gentle antiseptic. In addition to that, it has no side effects apart from minor cases of skin irritation triggered by allergic reactions.

Instructions for treating dandruff

• Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil like jojoba or olive.
• Massage the mixture onto your scalp for several minutes (10-15)
• Rinse thoroughly and continue with your hair care routine
• You can also add a few drops of tea tree oil into your conditioner (10 drops for every 8 ounces of bottled conditioner)

Remember to NEVER ingest tea tree oil. Itcan cause loss of muscle control and even put a person into a coma.

Always use diluted tea tree oilsince it's concentrated in its pure form and more likely to cause skin irritation.

These are the best natural hair care remedies for dry itchy scalp and dandruff. Of course, it’s always important that you consult your hair stylists before applying these treatments.

So there you have it. Our Scalp Serum’s key ingredients include aloe leaf juice and tea tree oil!  It gives instant relief and moisturizes your scalp. Our Tribe loves how it soothes any itchiness with a refreshing, cool sensation. Get yours today!