Shampoos for Itchy Scalp

Nobody likes to have that sensation of itchiness on their scalp. It’s even worse when you’re in a formal scenario and can’t be seen scratching your head. And so, you try to find ways to deal with this problem. You search for the best shampoo for itchy scalp and get hit with a long list of options. But understanding the causes, alternatives, and ingredients is the only way to find the ideal itchy scalp treatment.

Causes of itchy scalp

Ingredients that help your itchy scalp

How to find the right shampoo for itchy scalp?

What causes an itchy scalp?

Before you go hunting for itchy scalp treatment products, it is important to recognise the reason for this itchiness.

• Dandruff –

  This is the usual source of our troubles. The cause of dandruff is a naturally occurring fungus called Malassezia Globosa that breaks down any excess oil on your scalp. Your body reacts in the form of severe scalp itching, redness, and flakes.

• Dry scalp –

  Your scalp can dry out and become sensitive for various reasons, including over-washing of your hair. It is generally accompanied by itching and small flakes, becoming vulnerable to damage due to scratching and infections.

• Allergy or Reaction to products –

  You might not realise it, but you could be sensitive to a hair product that you’re using. We often go on recommendations without doing our own research. But a negative reaction can lead to breakouts and spells of itching.

• Lice –

  You might have grown up with this as one of your biggest fears, and it can literally give you sleepless nights. Head lice are tiny insects that bite into your scalp, causing you pain and irritation.

• Acne and inflammation –

  Often overlooked, you can develop a breakout of acne on your scalp due to inflamed hair follicles. This inflammation causes discomfort and even leads to itching.

• Psoriasis:

  Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes red and white scales on your scalp, always associated with intense itching. You might require medicated scalp shampoos as an itchy scalp treatment.

What ingredients help your itchy scalp?

There are some natural products that can be used to calm down the itching on your scalp. You can find them in shampoos as well.

• Neem –

  This has been used for decades to give you instant relief from itchiness and discomfort. It contains anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties that can counter the microbes that lead to itching. It is also said to reduce dryness and strengthen your hair follicles.

• Lemon –

  Packed with Vitamin C and essential acids, lemon juice can maintain the pH balance of your scalp and get rid of any excessive oil build-up. Its anti-microbial properties help to unclog the hair follicles and keep dandruff-causing germs at bay.

• Aloe Vera –

  This cooling gel can act as an instant itchy scalp solution. It contains enzymes, fatty acids and vitamins that reduce scalp irritation and have an anti-inflammatory effect on your scalp. It works to remove any excess sebum from your scalp, which is fodder for fungal infections. It also deeply moisturises and brings back hydration to damaged skin.

• Argan oil –

  This essential oil can work wonders to calm down your itchy scalp. It creates a protective layer on your scalp from any heat-based damage, and its anti-inflammatory characteristics reduce any itching. It contains Vitamin E that rejuvenates the scalp and reduces oxidative stress.

• Apple Cider Vinegar –

  This acidic product has shown to significantly clear up any scalp build up which could be the cause of your itchiness. It is said to be anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory, which helps it fight the germs that cause your scalp-itch.

How do you find the best shampoo for itchy scalp?

There are some things that you need to keep in mind when trying to find the best shampoo for itchy scalp.

• Identify the root cause of your itching -

  If it’s dandruff, you need to search for a shampoo that helps you with the question of how to remove dandruff. But if your itching is due to a dry scalp, you need to use a different approach.

• Check the ingredients in your shampoo -

  You might not realise that some shampoos contain ingredients that you are allergic to. Figuring out how your body reacts is a bit of trial and error, but understanding the ingredients is how you can find the right product for your scalp. Do a patch test if required.

• Base it on your hair texture -

  If you have frizzy hair, don’t use shampoos that are meant for oily hair. Frizzy hair can be a heat trap that leads to itching, which requires a shampoo to moisturise and open your hair strands. On the other hand, you should avoid deep moisturising shampoos for oily hair.

• Don’t combine too many products together -

  You might not realise how different shampoos and conditioners react with each other. If you blindly use a combination of products, it can make your condition much worse. Apply a product and be patient with it. Only shift to another one if it does not work.

There are various products available out there that are built for your itchy scalp problem. A Head and Shoulders itchy scalp shampoo is one of those solutions. You can use the Head and Shoulders Supreme Scalp Soothing shampoo with Argan oil, that nourishes and moisturises your itchy scalp. Or try the Head and Shoulders Neem shampoo or Lemon Fresh shampoo, that helps to clean and protect your head from the dandruff causing germs that are behind your itchiness. It’s important to try and see what works for you. Only then will you find a solution that finally gets rid of your itchy ailments.