The scalp and hair are the most vulnerable part of the body that may be affected by both internal and external changes. An itchy scalp, known as scalp pruritus, is a common condition. There are many causes for this problem. Regardless of the cause, various home remedies can help relieve an itchy scalp. Read on this post to explore some of the best home remedies for an itchy scalp.
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Home Remedies For An Itchy Scalp
1. Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar includes anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fungal properties. It may reduce the dandruff production that causes itching. The malic acid present in the apple works as an astringent that reduces itching considerably.
How to use:
- Dilute ¼ cup of apple cider vinegar in a cup of water.
- Apply this mixture on the scalp and leave it for 10 minutes.
- Wash it off with a mild shampoo and cold water.
2. Coconut oil
The scalp itches when it is extremely dry, so you should moisturize it. Coconut oil is loaded with many properties that can help relieve itchiness and the underlying infection that is causing it. The anti-fungal properties will help clear the scalp of itchy elements, and provide relief.
How to use:
- Take two tablespoons of coconut oil in a bowl and heat it. It should be warm to touch, without burning your skin.
- Dip a cotton ball in the oil and apply it all over the scalp.
- Massage the scalp with your fingertips for five minutes for it to be absorbed. You can leave it on overnight and wash it off the next morning with a mild shampoo and lukewarm water.
3. Tea tree oil
Essential oil is available at health food stores, tea tree oil has antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiseptic properties. It also has some anti-inflammatory effects. Tea tree oil can be irritating to the skin, so it’s important to use it sparingly or dilute it prior to use.
Try adding 10 to 20 drops of tea tree oil to a gentle shampoo or mix it with olive oil and massage it directly into your scalp. Tea tree oil can help reduce or eliminate itching associated with dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and head lice. Tea tree oil should never be ingested.
4. Warm olive oil
Applying warm olive oil to the scalp can help soften and loosen itchy crusts and scales on the surface of the skin.
Warm up the olive oil in the hands before applying it to the scalp, and massage it into the skin.
Leave the olive oil on the scalp for several hours before washing it out using a medicated shampoo such as coal tar or salicylic acid.
5. Aloe vera
Aloe vera gives a natural soothing effect that kelp treats dry and itchy scalp. It works as a moisturizer and reduces irritation.
How to use:
- Remove the gel from the aloe vera leaf and apply it directly to the scalp. You can also use organic, readymade aloe vera gel.
- Leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Rinse with lukewarm water.
6. Lemon juice
Lemon juice is a natural ingredient working against microbes due to the acidity. It also helps clears the scalp of accumulated dirt and dead cells.
How to use:
- Take two fresh lemons and wash them well. Pat dry with a clean cloth and cut and juice them.
- Apply this fresh lemon juice on your scalp with a cotton ball.
- Leave it on for 10 minutes and then rinse it away with a mild shampoo and cold water.
7. Peppermint oil
Peppermint oil has been used traditionally for itchy scalp and dandruff. It has anti-bacterial properties.
How to use:
- Dilute peppermint oil with your favorite oil like coconut or almond oil.
- Massage onto your scalp and leave for 30 minutes.
- Wash it off with cold water.
8. Baking soda
Baking soda helps in relief from both, hair fall and itchiness. It has anti-fungal and antibacterial properties, which kill the microbes causing infections in the scalp. It also helps balance the pH levels of the scalp and smooth your skin.
How to use:
- Take two tablespoons of baking soda in a bowl and add water teaspoon by teaspoon to make a thick paste.
- Apply this paste on your scalp, either with your fingers or with a brush.
- Leave it on for 15 minutes.
- After that, wash it off with a mild shampoo and lukewarm water.
In conclusion, these are home remedies for an itchy scalp that you can apply.