A healthy scalp is needed for healthy hair. It can be difficult to differentiate between a problem with your scalp and a problem with your hair. And sometimes you may have a problem with both. There are ways to treat scalp problems and natural shampoos that are gentle as well as effective.
Dry Scalp
Dry scalp can occur in colder climates or when moving in and out of heated areas. The skin on your scalp may feel tight and itchy and tiny flakes of skin may show up on your comb or brush. This is often misdiagnosed as dandruff. A dry scalp can lead to dry hair because your scalp may be producing little oil. Your hair may seem to lack shine and appear wispy.
Natural Shampoo
A natural shampoo should consist of all-natural ingredients. Read all the ingredients listed to determine if it's natural. Typically, an all-natural shampoo will contain fragrances such as lavender and jasmine and water such as filtered or deionized water. Other substances such as essential oils like coconut, rosemary, tea tree or white camellia are also typical of natural shampoos. Ingredients such as grapefruit seed extract, wheat protein and PEG may seem okay, but the Organic Shampoo website warns they are not considered natural and may actually be harmful.
Significance
A lot of commercially made shampoos have harsh chemicals or preservatives that can damage your hair and irritate your already dry scalp. Natural ingredients in organic shampoos are safe and often non-allergenic, according to the Organic Shampoo website. An additional benefit to using natural shampoos is that they can be made at home. Natural or organic shampoos are gentle for dry scalps, preventing or repairing damage and improving the overall health of your scalp and hair.
Sources
Natural shampoos that have hemp seed oil are good for dry scalps because they contain essential fatty acids such as omega-3 and omega-6. Hemp seed oil moisturizes and helps to restore damaged cells on the scalp, according to the Short Hair Style website. Cranberry oil is another excellent ingredient in natural shampoos because it helps blood circulation in the scalp while providing antioxidants. The antioxidants help to repair cellular damage and promote healthy hair.
Considerations
Other treatments for dry scalp include deep conditioning, moisturizers and lotions for the scalp. Scalp massages can help as well to stimulate circulation, according to the Hair Finder website. A scalp steamer or the homemade remedy of wrapping your head with a warm, moist towel will also help to alleviate dry scalp problems.
References
- Hairfinder: Scalp Problems -- Scalp Basics
- Short Hair Style: Hair and Scalp Problem?
- Organic Shampoo: Organic Shampoo -- Precautions and Advantages
- Short Hair Style: Advice and Treatment for Damaged Hair
- World of Hair: What Makes a Good Healthy Hair Shampoo?
- Short Hair Style: Why Choosing Hemp Shampoo for Dry Scalp
