A flaky and/or itchy scalp is an irritating problem that occurs in a lot of people worldwide. It can be caused by several reasons, such as dandruff, eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, and allergies. The issue usually presents itself whenever the skin on our scalp ends up losing its moisture. Other factors can also cause this issue to happen as well (harsh hair care products, age-related issues, and weather). There are a couple of ways through which you can manage and care for a flaky scalp, and this article provides better insight into the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for this issue.
Identifying the Cause of Your Dry and Flaky Scalp
There are some reasons that can cause scalp dryness and flaking. To get effective treatment, you first need to be able to identify the cause of the issue. Listed below you’ll find a better explanation of all these issues that can help you identify the cause of your dry scalp:
- Weather Changes:
Dry, summer, or winter weather conditions often affect our skin, especially on our scalp area, and can cause itchiness and flakes in hair. Such extreme weather can dry the scalp’s skin of its moisture. It is best to care for such a scalp condition by using gentle and moisturizing haircare products. - Dandruff:
This is one of the most common conditions that affects millions across the globe. If your scalp is white and flaky, there is a high chance that you may have developed dandruff. This condition causes a lot of itchiness on the scalp and can be extremely bothersome. It can also flare up and get worse due to certain factors like stress and cold weather. - Tinea capitis (scalp ringworm):
This is a form of fungal infection that can occur in people. It is actively known to present symptoms of itchiness, along with circular patches of rash. It can also cause flakes from dry scalp to fall. To identify this issue, it is best to visit a doctor; however, sometimes you may be able to see fungal residue on your hair strands. - Contact Dermatitis:
Contact dermatitis is caused by irritants and toxic materials reacting with your skin. They can cause red, itchy rashes on the scalp, as well as flakes in the hair. This issue can affect any part of your body and is not just limited to your scalp area. - Sunburn:
Persistent exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can cause a myriad of skin/ hair conditions to flare up in people. It can cause a white flaky scalp, redness, swelling, irritated, and itchy scalp in most people. This issue can affect the whole body; however, in most cases, it can take up to 36 hours to fully form and suggested not to scratch the scalp as the condition could get worse. - Seborrheic Dermatitis:
Seborrheic dermatitis is a skin issue that affects mostly the scalp. It produces scaly areas, irritated skin, and dry and flaky scalp as well. Aside from the scalp, it often affects oily parts of the body, such as the cheeks, sides of the nose, brows, ears, eyelids, and chest. This condition can be unpleasant, but it is not infectious and does not result in permanent hair loss.
Treatment Options for a Flaky Scalp
Listed below are certain treatment options that you can opt for after you have identified what kind of issue you may be suffering from:
- You can use a scalp scrub to detoxify and hydrate.
- Antifungal shampoos and other hair care products.
- Using products with salicylic acid can help with dissolving the flakes from dry scalp.
- Using medicated ointments like hydrocortisone and fluocinolone for rashes (based on experts’ guidance)
- A cold compress can help relieve symptoms of itchiness.
- Medicated shampoo and other medicated products are made to target certain skin issues like psoriasis and contact dermatitis.
- Active use of a humidifier can help avoid moisture loss from the scalp and your skin in general.
- A flaky scalp can also be managed by using nourishing oils like coconut oil, jojoba oil, tea tree oil, and avocado oil.
- Use a cover like a hat or scarf to protect your head and scalp from the harsh rays of the sun.
- Use supplements that are known to target your hair health and scalp health. You can handpick biotin gummies for hair as well in order to combat such hair conditions. This can help the scalp retain moisture and hence get rid of the dry and flaky scalp.
Conclusion
A flaky scalp is an irritating and often recurrent issue that arises in a lot of people across the globe. Also, there could be several factors that can cause this problem to occur, such as allergic reactions, psoriasis, dandruff, sunburn, etc., to name a few. It is best to treat your scalp with care during such times and use specific products that are made to target scalp dryness and flaking. If the problem persists over time and no treatment works, it is best to consult a doctor for further treatment.
