Dry scalp -- which is often accompanied by dandruff -- can sometimes be treated by using a gentler shampoo, such as the plant-based products offered by Arbonne. However, results of any hair-care product depend highly on the individual, and a combination of conventional and alternative treatments may be needed. Finding products that work for you is the best way to treat your dry scalp.
Definition
A dry scalp often goes hand-in-hand with dandruff, a condition marked by small flakes of skin that fall off your scalp and often end up on your clothing. Simply having dry skin in general can contribute to a dry scalp and dandruff, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Causes
Dandruff has several possible causes, including the skin conditions seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis and eczema. Not washing your hair often enough can cause oils and skin cells on your scalp to build up and flake off. If you are experiencing dry scalp without dandruff, the cause may be different; causes of dry skin include dry and cold weather, overuse of heating and air conditioning, showering in too-hot water, sun exposure or using overly harsh soaps and shampoos, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Arbonne
Arbonne is a manufacturer of plant-based hair, skin and cosmetic products that are sold through a network of independent consultants. The company offers a shampoo that claims to eliminate dry scalp and touts tea tree oil as an ingredient. If your dry scalp is the result of using harsh shampoos, a gentler, plant-based product such as Arbonne could be beneficial; however, results are highly individual, and other brands could work just as well or better.
Tea Tree Oil
Shampoos containing tea tree oil seem to be useful in treating dandruff if used daily, according to the Mayo Clinic. The oil is derived from the leaves of the Australian tea tree and is commonly found in natural and organic products due to its antiseptic, antifungal and antibiotic properties. Though it may not work for everyone, a shampoo containing tea tree oil is one way to fight against dandruff and dry scalp.
Other Treatments
Conventional dandruff shampoos generally contain one of five dandruff-fighting ingredients: zinc pyrithione, coal tar, salicylic acid, selenium sulfide or ketoconazole. As with Arbonne and other natural shampoos, results of dandruff-fighting shampoos are highly individual, according to the Mayo Clinic. Dry skin and scalp can usually be treated by using moisturizing products and avoiding long, hot showers.
