How to Treat Oily Hair & Itchy, Dry, Flaky Scalp

How to Treat Oily Hair & Itchy, Dry, Flaky Scalp
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Oily hair often goes hand in hand with flaky, itchy scalp conditions like dandruff or seborrhoeic eczema. According to BBC Health, dandruff can form when the scalp is either too oily or too dry. While dandruff tends to be a genetic condition, seborrhoeic eczema often starts as dandruff and progresses to more serious symptoms of greasy flakes, itchy scalp and oily hair. Most of these conditions can be treated using home remedies, but if your condition is severe, you might require a trip to the dermatologist.

Step 1

Wash your hair every day or at least every other day with a shampoo formulated for flaky scalp or dandruff. According to BBC Health, you might have to experiment with more than one to find one that works for you. Look for anti-fungal shampoos that contain the ingredient ketoconazole, which often helps in treating both dandruff and sebhorrhoeic eczema.

Step 2

Use a clarifying shampoo once a week to help thoroughly cleanse your scalp and remove buildup of oil and debris from your hair. Don't use a clarifying shampoo more than once a week because it contains harsher ingredients that can actually stimulate oil production if used too frequently.

Step 3

Rinse your hair with beer after washing. According to Discovery Health, beer has a drying effect that can help remove excess oil from your hair and scalp. Beer rinses also help to leave your hair looking shiny while adding volume and body.

Step 4

Condition your hair after washing with a volumizing conditioner made for oily hair. Apply the conditioner only to the ends of your hair. You don't need to use conditioner on your whole hair. The ends of your hair usually are most susceptible to damage and splitting, so applying a small amount to the ends is enough to help keep them moisturized.

Step 5

Limit how often you brush your hair. According to Discovery Health, brushing your hair can pull the oil from your scalp and spread it over your hair.

Step 6

Rub tea tree oil into your scalp. According to Cynthia B. Olsen in her book "Australian Tea Tree Oil First Aid Handbook: 101 Plus Ways to Use Tea Tree Oil," tea tree oil helps to cleanse your scalp, fight bacteria and alleviate dandruff. Place a small amount on your fingertips and rub into your scalp every morning and in the evening before going to bed.

Step 7

Consult a dermatologist if you're not sure if you have dandruff or another condition such as sebhorrhoeic eczema. A dermatologist can diagnosis you and make recommendations on treatments, such as prescription medications, to alleviate your condition.

Things You'll Need

  • Clarifying shampoo
  • Shampoo for flaky scalp or dandruff
  • Volumizing conditioner
  • Can of beer
  • Tea tree oil

References

Article reviewed by Shawn Candela Last updated on: Jun 14, 2011

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