A dry scalp is generally a sign of dandruff, a condition typically caused by skin rash known as seborrheic dermatitis, according to Health Services at Columbia University. However, this is not the source of all cases of dry scalp. Some other common causes of dry scalp are dry weather, irritation and allergic reactions. The best dry scalp solution is a double-pronged attack of treating dandruff and eliminating other possible triggers.
Medication
Dry scalp due to seborrheic dermatitis can generally be treated using a medicated dandruff shampoo that contains pyrithione zinc, tar, salicylic acid, selenium sulfide or ketoconazole. Use the shampoo and keep it in your hair at least three minutes every day until your symptoms are under control and then cut back to twice or three times weekly, recommends MayoClinic.com. A prescription steroid cream may reduce severe seborrheic dermatitis.
Healthy Habits
To rule out hair products as a potential culprit for your dry scalp, use only fragrance-free and hypoallergenic shampoos, conditioners, hair styling gels and other toiletries. Your scalp may also become dry if it is irritated by wool and fabrics that don't breathe, so stick to natural fibers such as silk and cotton for attire that comes into contact with your scalp. Since a lack of moisture can also cause your scalp to dry out, avoid exposing your hair to hot water and showers that are longer than 15 minutes; they tend to remove natural oils from the skin, MayoClinic.com says.
Home Remedies
Sprinkling some baking soda, uncooked oatmeal or bath products that contain colloidal oatmeal into a tub of water and soaking your head in it may help soothe a dry and itchy scalp, according to Health Services at Columbia University. Another way to reduce the itch is to apply a cool, wet compress to the scalp and reapply as needed. This home remedy will have a bonus effect of keeping you from scratching your itchy scalp.
Getting Help
See your doctor about your dry scalp if it is uncomfortable and getting in the way of daily life, if you think your skin may be infected or if you've tried self-care strategies without success. To get to the root of the problem, your doctor may ask you about any other symptoms, the frequency of your symptoms, any medications you are taking and anything that soothes your scalp or makes the dryness worse.
Other Treatments
Other than allergies, irritation and seborrheic dermatitis, potential causes of dry scalp include psoriasis and a fungal infection called ringworm. The treatment your doctor prescribes can range from oral and topical medications to light therapy, phototherapy and wet dressings, according to Columbia University Health Services.
