An itchy head often causes embarrassing flakes and intense discomfort. If you've recently developed an itchy head or scalp, consult your doctor to determine the cause. Itching is frequently caused by dandruff, dry skin, food sensitivities and head lice. Your doctor can determine what's causing your itching. If there's no clear cause or if your doctor's recommendations doesn't give you relief, home remedies can help alleviate symptoms.
Diet and Nutrition
Dandruff and dry skin can both cause an itchy head. Your diet affects your skin's moisture, so it's important to eat foods that help keep the scalp smooth and free of dry, itchy skin. Fruits containing antioxidants, such as oranges, blueberries and cranberries, may ease symptoms. Drink plenty of water and avoid sugary drinks, like soda and sweetened juices, which the "Mayo Clinic Family Health Book" points out can dehydrate the skin and body. Take a multivitamin daily. Important vitamins, such as biotin and Vitamin E, help improve skin and scalp health.
Shampoo
The wrong shampoo can increase scalp dryness and itchiness. Most shampoos contain harsh detergents called sulfates. Choose a sulfate-free shampoo instead. If you suffer from dandruff flakes and itching, try an over-the-counter dandruff shampoo. If dryness continues after you change shampoos, reduce shampooing to every other day.
Lemons
Lemon is a natural astringent that might help ease a severely itchy scalp. The home remedy website Grandma's Wisdom recommends squeezing a fresh lemon into a glass and then using it as a rinse. Allow the lemon to remain on your hair for a few minutes, and avoid getting any in your eyes.
Home Moisturizers
"The Hair Bible" points out that an itchy head is most commonly caused by dry skin, so it's important to keep your scalp moisturized. Olive oil is an excellent home moisturizing treatment. Try applying it directly to you scalp. Then wait three minutes and rinse thoroughly. Oatmeal shampoo is known for its soothing benefits, and you can make your own home oatmeal shampoo. Simply heat up oatmeal, then add one part oatmeal to one part shampoo and use as a soothing hair rinse.
References
- "Mayo Clinic Family Health Book"; Mayo Clinic; 2009
- Grandma's Wisdom: Grandma's Dandruff Home Remedy
- " The Hair Bible: The Ultimate Guide to Healthy, Beautiful Hair Forever"; Susan Craig Scott; 2003
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