Last updated on May 11th, 2020 at 12:22 pm
The problem of itchy scalp can be very annoying. Apart from not allowing you to concentrate on something, it can also be very embarrassing at time to itch the scalp publicly. If you are struggling with itchy scalp and you want to get rid of naturally and in cost effective manner, then here’s the post worth checking. Today, I am sharing a few of the best natural home remedies to treat itchy scalp fast and easily at home.
Imagine you are in the middle of a meeting or attending a gathering of your friends or colleagues, and suddenly you feel the urge to itch your scalp. You won’t be able to scratch your scalp publically and at the same time, the feeling of itchiness will continue bothering you constantly. And that could get really frustrating.
Those with itchy scalp, usually find it irritating and frustrating to handle. Some of us even end up spending lots of money on expensive hair care treatments. But let me tell you, that if you are serious about treating itchy scalp, then you can do it naturally, without spending lots of money.
Instead of spending bucks to treat itchy scalp, you may very well try the natural remedies, for they are easy to implement, almost no side effect and obviously it’s a cheaper solution.
Natural remedies are usually very effective as well as very pocket friendly and any one can try it. And, if you are not sure about the natural home remedies to treat itchy scalp, then I have got you covered. Right here in this post, I am sharing the list of best natural remedies to treat itchy scalp.
But before we go to the itchy scalp remedies, let’s just take a quick look at the causes behind itchy scalp
What are the causes behind an itchy scalp?
Getting rid of the itchiness begins with finding the causes that is making your scalp itch. In fact, knowing the causes will actually help you treat itchy scalp fast and from its very roots.
Hence, I thought of discussing on the causes first and then discuss about the remedies to treat itchy scalp.
Here are some of the most common causes behind an itchy scalp:
- Dandruff
- Too much dry scalp
- Poor hygiene
- Hives
- Reaction to certain hair products
- Head lice
- Scabies
- Scalp ringworm
- Scalp psoriasis
- Atopic dermatitis (Eczema)
- Stress or anxiety
- Shingles
- Diabetes
So, as you can see, an itchy scalp can be caused because of so many reasons. If the itchy scalp is because of some medical condition like diabetes, then taking professional help from a doctor is going to be the best thing to do. But if it’s because of other normal reasons, then you can try treating an itchy scalp using natural home remedies that we are discussing here.
Natural ingredients and remedies to treat itchy scalp
The constant feeling of itchiness in the scalp can be really frustrating. So, the faster you are able to get rid of the problem, the better for you.
And here are a few of the best and most effective natural home remedies to treat itchy scalp fast and easily at home:
Organic coconut oil remedy
Coconut oil is not just good and nutritious for your hair in general but it can be used to treat itchy scalp easily. The primary reason why it is so effective in treating itchy scalp is that it can easily moisturize a dry scalp and that in turns helps you to get rid of itchy scalp.
Also, coconut oil contains lauric acid which is a saturated fat having antimicrobial properties which is very helpful in treating any kind of scalp infection that may be leading to the scalp itching. Also, coconut oil is effective against head lice, so if the main reason for your itchy scalp is head lice, then this remedy can do wonders for you.
In fact, studies have also shown that coconut oil when mixed with anise is great in getting rid of the itchy scalp when compared to the effectiveness of permethrin which is a medication used for treating lice.
Clearly, good quality coconut oil can be very effective in dealing with an itchy scalp. And to get the maximum benefits in treating itchy scalp, all you have to do is to take few teaspoons of virgin or organic coconut oil and heat it lightly.
Then apply it on your hair and scalp and massage your scalp for a few minutes so that the coconut oil is properly absorbed. Do the coconut oil massage 2-3 times in a week to get rid of an itchy scalp.
Apple cider vinegar remedy
The next in the list of the home remedies to treat itchy scalp is the apple cider vinegar remedy. There are actually several reasons to use ACV to get rid of itchy scalp. Firstly, apple cider vinegar works as an astringent and rinsing your hair with it cleanses your scalp.
Secondly, it also helps in the removal of the dead cells that often accumulate on your scalp and lead to the itchiness. Thirdly, it is rich in malic acid which possesses antimicrobial properties and helps in reducing any kind of scalp infection. Last but not the least; ACV is very much beneficial in maintaining the pH balance of your scalp.
There are two ways to use ACV to treat itchy scalp easily. In one method, you can dilute adequate amounts of ACV with adequate amounts of warm water. Then after shampooing, you can rinse your hair and scalp with this solution. This will help you to treat itchy scalp as well as help you to get rid of dandruff problem as well.
Alternatively, you can massage the mixture of ACV and water on your scalp 2-3 times a week to get rid of the itchiness off your scalp.
Tea tree oil for itchy scalp
The primary reason behind using tea tree oil in getting rid of itchy scalp is because tea tree oil is antimicrobial in nature, thanks to the presence of terpenes in it. This is very much beneficial in helping you reduce the scalp infection which many times lead to the itchiness in your scalp. Tea tree oil is also a perfect antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agent which will also help you deal with any kind of inflammation in your scalp.
Also, studies have shown tea tree oil to be very effective against head lice which is also one of the very common causes behind itchiness in the scalp. So, if you are suffering from the problem of head lice, you can consider using tea tree oil.
However, although we cannot deny the effectiveness of the tea tree oil in reducing itchiness, we cannot ignore the fact that at times, tea tree oil may irritate your skin. So, if you have sensitive skin, you may do a patch test in the beginning. If nothing happens then only try this remedy.
Take some amount of tea tree oil on your palm, add some water or coconut oil and then apply on your scalp directly. Massage for a few minutes, and then allow it to stay for some time. Wash off your hair properly and you will see the difference. You can use the remedy 2-3 times in a week to treat itchy scalp.
Colloidal oatmeal for itchy scalp
Colloidal oatmeal is nothing but grounded oatmeal that is dissolved in water. This solution actually forms a protective film over the skin surface and helps in locking moisture which in turn prevents dryness and flaking in the scalp.
This helps to avoid the problem of itchy scalp. Colloidal oatmeal is also a great anti-inflammatory agent and it has antioxidant properties which helps alleviate various skin irritations. In fact, you will get to find colloidal oatmeal in many anti-dandruff shampoos which actually means it is very much beneficial in treating dandruff as well. And, when you can control all these issues, you’ll be able to treat itchy scalp automatically.
Colloidal oatmeal can be made at home and then used in treating itchy scalp. First, you need to take a muslin cloth and then wrap some oats in it. Then you need to hold the cloth beneath a tap with running lukewarm water and collect the water runoff in a container. Now, you need to pour that oatmeal water evenly and gently over your scalp to get the maximum benefits in treating itchy scalp. Simple, isn’t? Then give it a try and see the difference yourself.
Lemon juice
Lemon juice is a great remedy and you can definitely try it out to treat the problem of itchy scalp. This is because lemon juice is acidic in nature and contains phytochemicals which makes it antimicrobial in nature that in turn is great in treating scalp infections. The phytochemicals also has anti-inflammatory effects when you apply lemon juice on your scalp. Lemon juice is very effective against dandruff as well, so you can use it to treat your dandruff and reduce the itchiness in your scalp.
For the benefits, all you need to do is to take around 2-3 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and then using a cotton ball apply the juice all over your scalp. Let it stay for about 10 minutes and then rinse your scalp properly. Twice weekly usage will be good enough for you to treat itchy scalp. Avoid using it too much because that may lighten your hair color.
Lemongrass oil
Did you know that you can use lemongrass oil remedy to treat itchy scalp, especially when it occurs due to dandruff issues? In fact, lemongrass oil is considered to be a great treatment for dandruff and studies are a proof of that.
In the study, it was seen that about 30 participants used lemon grass oil on one half of their scalp and the other half; they went for a placebo solution. With just two applications every week, the results in case of lemongrass oil was amazing after 2 weeks. And it had actually reduced the problem of dandruff much better when compared to the placebo solution application.
So, if you are suffering from dandruff issues and as a result you have an itchy scalp, then lemongrass is definitely one solution to look out for.
Peppermint oil
The other oil that can be very effective in treating the problem of itchy scalp is peppermint oil. It is actually used worldwide for soothing itchy inflamed skin. And, when you apply it on your scalp, the results will be the same. You will get a very soothing and cooling sensation which will give you immense relief from the itchiness. In addition, as per research, peppermint oil is a great antiseptic and antimicrobial agent which is effective against scalp issues like dandruff, head lice which are known to cause the itchiness in the scalp.
I generally do not prefer applying only peppermint oil as many a times, it leads to soreness. Instead, I dilute it with some other carrier oil before applying on the scalp. You can also do the same.
You can mix any carrier oil like olive oil, jojoba oil, and castor oil with peppermint oil and then apply gently and evenly on your scalp. Let it stay for few hours and then rinse your scalp properly. Repeat the process 2 times weekly before you are going for a hair wash.
Alternatively, you may also consider rinsing your hair using peppermint tea after shampooing. It also gives you quick benefits.
Onion juice for itchy scalp
If you are OK with the pungent smell of the onion juice, then you can actually consider using it to treat your problem of itchy scalp. After all, onion possesses antimicrobial properties which will effectively deal with any scalp infection that is causing the itchiness. Also, it is rich in antioxidants which will ease the inflammation in your scalp and keep it healthy in general. In addition, onion juice is amazing for hair growth, so if you have hair loss issues, it will act as a double benefit for you.
Take 1 small onion and then peel and grate it. Squeeze out the juice properly and apply on the scalp using a cotton ball. Let it stay for about half an hour and then wash your scalp using a mild shampoo. Using the onion juice remedy once weekly will prove beneficial for you in getting rid of itchy scalp.
Meditation for itch scalp
If you are suffering from the itchiness in your scalp due to stress and then meditation is one of the best remedies for itchy scalp for you to consider.
In fact, if studies are to be believed, meditation is effective against eczema as well which is also one of the bigger contributors to an itchy scalp. In the study at Emory University, it was seen that you can actually improve your perception of itching by a coping mechanism and a sense of control.
So, meditation is effective and you can definitely try it out. It is good for your mental health in general as well. It is best if you use it along with the other home remedies for itchy scalp that I have mentioned above for the fast benefits.
If you are new to meditation and want it to be perfect, then I would suggest you to go for professional classes in the beginning. Once you learn about how to meditate, then you can practice it in your home on your own.
How to prevent itchy scalp easily?
The above-mentioned natural home remedies for itchy scalp are very effective and if you apply these remedies correctly, you will be able to get rid of itchy scalp easily.
But what if you could prevent itchy scalp issues completely? Yes, there are many precautions that you can take to completely prevent itchy scalp, and here they are:
Use a mild shampoo
It is very much necessary for you to remember not to use a harsh shampoo. Well, this is because harsh shampoos contain chemicals which are not good and they can actually make your scalp dry leading to uneasiness. Also, make sure to avoid switching shampoos often and stick to the one that has suited your hair and scalp well.
Avoid frequent shampooing
It is true that you need to clean your hair and for that you will have to shampoo it often. But, make sure you restrict it to 2-3 times weekly, as over shampooing strips the scalp off the natural oils and causes dryness which in turn may lead to itchy scalp.
Wash hair with cold water
It is equally important for you to note that when you are washing your hair, please make sure that you’re using cold water. If not, then at least go for lukewarm water and avoid using hot water. This is because hot water removes the moisture from your scalp and makes it dry and itchy.
Drink enough water
You need to drink enough water throughout the day to stay hydrated as once your body gets dehydrated, you will start suffering from dry and itchy scalp issues.
Maintain proper diet
As far as your diet is concerned, besides keeping it balanced overall, make sure you are eating food items rich in Vitamins B, C, zinc and iron.
Avoid hair-styling products
Usage of hairstyling products like hot irons and blow dryers must be avoided as much as possible because the heat can damage your hair and scalp. It will make your scalp dry and itchy.
Use separate combs
When it comes to combs and brushes, it is advisable that you use separate ones and avoid exchanging them with others. This will help prevent scalp infections and diseases.
Keep pillow cases and bed sheets clean
Please make it a point to keep your pillow cases and the bed sheets clean. It is important to avoid any kind scalp infections. At least, change the cases weekly if you do not get time to wash them timely.
Discontinue hair products if it does not suit you
Many times hair care products do not suit you and it leads to reactions in your scalp which in turn causes the itchiness. So, if that is your case, discontinue using the products straightaway.
Over to you
The problem of itchy scalp is very common and undoubtedly it is one of the most irritating disorders. It puts us into an embarrassing situation at times and so, the quicker you can ease your discomfort, the better for you.
Itchy scalp can be caused because of different factors including but not limited to dandruff, dry scalp, poor hygiene, head lice etc. Thankfully, there are natural remedies available that can help you to treat itchy scalp. We have already discussed about 9 of the best remedies that are easy to apply and do not cost much. When used correctly, these natural home remedies to treat itchy scalp can be very effective in getting rid of itchy scalp.
Apart from sharing the best and easiest natural remedies to treat itchy scalp, I have also share a few tips that can help you prevent the occurrence of itchy scalp.
Have you ever had itchy scalp?
How did you treat it? Tried any remedy for itchy scalp, please feel free to share how it worked for you.
Until then, stay clean, stay healthy and do not let your itchy scalp bother you for long.
