Itchy scalp is generally a symptom of another skin condition. According to the Mayo Clinic, seborrheic dermatitis is a relatively minor condition, marked by red, irritated skin and persistent dandruff. Psoriasis is a fungal infection of the scalp that causes skin scaling and flaking and inflamed skin that may bleed or be painful to the touch. Many over-the-counter and prescription medicines can treat the condition. Check with your doctor first, but home remedies may provide a less-harsh, but equally effective solution.
Change Your Shampooing Regimen
The Mayo Clinic writes that changes to your hair care may provide relief. The active ingredients in shampoo, as well as the process of massaging the scalp, helps to loosen the scaling and relieve the annoying itch. Hydrating shampoos can provide temporary relief to the dryness, while medicated shampoos containing coal tar, ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione or selenium sulfide are particularly effective at reducing inflammation and symptoms of most skin conditions.
Use Oil-Based Treatments
Oils applied topically provide moisture to their surrounding environment. On his pediatric health website, Dr. Alan Greene suggests using warm mineral oil or a 5 percent concentration of tea tree oil to soften the scalp's scales and remove them. The rupturing of the scalp and hardened scales cause the scalp to itch. The Mayo Clinic suggests massaging the scalp with oil, covering it with a shower cap, letting it set over night, and then washing it in the morning.
Change Your Hairstyling Plan
Hair products, like gels, hairsprays and mousses, leave a residue on your scalp that may be difficult to wash away. As the residue builds up and irritates the pores, it can cause the scalp to become inflamed and oily, leading to increased itchiness. The Mayo Clinic recommends reducing your use of these products to improve scalp health.
Get Some Sun
Moderate sun exposure is good for the skin, as it provides a natural source of vitamin D. The American Academy of Dermatologists and Mayo Clinic both recommend mild sun exposure as a treatment for the conditions that cause scalp itch. The Mayo Clinic reports that "a controlled amount of sunlight can significantly improve (psoriasis) lesions."
