Dry scalp 101: What you need to know about this condition and how to treat it

Do you ever find that your scalp feels tighter than usual or notice that little flakes are appearing in your hairline? Chances are, you could be suffering from a dry scalp. Having a very dry scalp could be caused by a number of reasons: dandruff, internal scalp health issues and more.

If you’re keen to know more, our guide to conquering a dry flaky scalp will help provide some insight into how and why your skin may be reacting this way. And, we reveal what course of action you should take in order to address it.

So, if you’re sick of suffering in silence, keep reading to find out what could be causing your itchy dry scalp, as well as our hair care tips to get it back in pristine condition.

You can thank us later…

Dry scalp: What you need to know

What could be causing your dry scalp?

Dandruff

Although it’s a bit of a taboo subject, dandruff is actually extremely common and is one of the biggest contributors to a scaly-looking scalp. According to Peter Bailey, Global Technical Manager, Hair Care at Unilever, there are several reasons you can experience this condition. “Dandruff is caused by a number of factors. The presence of a micro-organism call Malassezia, (which everyone has on their scalp) is one of the most talked-about sources.”

If you think that you might have dandruff, read up on our cheat sheet to this hair woe and make sure to visit a medical professional to discuss your treatment options.

Product build-up

Are you a slave to your hair products? If you use styling products like mousse and hairspray daily, or you religiously rely on your dry shampoo to get you between washes, it’s possible that you need to use a clarifying shampoo and conditioner to get rid of product build up.

Improper washing can leave product residue behind, even after shampooing and conditioning. Which is why it’s important that you make sure you’re fully rinsing your hair of excess, before stepping out the shower. If you’re keen to know more, check out our top 10 hair washing tips to make sure you’re making the most of your products.

Sunburn

If you’ve recently spent a lot of time with your scalp exposed to the sun and notice any redness or irritation, you may have sunburn. The best course of action is to treat the skin carefully and consult a medical professional for advice on how to remedy the symptoms. In future, remember to wear a hat and don’t leave your scalp exposed, unprotected, in the sun.

What can you do to address it?

When it comes to fixing a dry scalp, make sure you’re monitoring any possible symptoms and addressing them accordingly.

If your hair feels dry overall, be sure to use a shampoo that fits your hair needs and nourishing mask like the TRESemmé Biotin + Repair 7 Intensive Mask to improve the look and feel.

If you’re still concerned about any scalp issues, seek advice from a medical professional so they can recommend a course of treatment that best fits your hair concerns.