When you have dry and itchy scalp, you are likely to be suffering from a form of dermatitis or psoriasis. These skin conditions can dry out the scalp and lead to dandruff forming. Although you can usually treat dry and itchy scalp symptoms at home, you should notify your doctor, because it could be caused by another problem, like head lice. When you have head lice, you must use a special shampoo to kill the louse and their eggs.
Step 1
Massage the dry and itchy scalp with olive oil. Olive oil can replace the lost essential oils caused by dry skin. Leave the oil on your hair for 10 to 15 minutes and then shampoo your hair.
Step 2
Get rid of the uncomfortable itching with an antihistamine product. You can apply antihistamine cream directly to the scalp or take an oral antihistamine.
Step 3
Use a shampoo specially formulated for dry and itchy scalp. These shampoos contain moisturizing ingredients to help eliminate dry, itchy scalp. Zinc is a common ingredient used to treat dandruff. Some brand examples include Neutrogena Triple Moisture Shampoo and KeraCare Dry & Itchy Scalp Shampoo.
Step 4
Use the shampoo at least twice a week. Apply a small amount to the head and massage into the scalp. Allow it to sit for two to three minutes before rinsing with warm water. Once the condition clears up, you can discontinue the special shampoo.
Step 5
Treat the condition with a scalp scaling product. Place the liquid onto your scalp and then cover your head with a shower cap. Put it on before bed, and leave it on your scalp overnight. Rinse the product out in the morning. An example of this type of treatment is Baker's P & S Liquid.
Tips and Warnings
- If zinc-based shampoos and treatments are not effective for your dry, itchy scalp, look for a shampoo that includes a different active ingredient, like tar.
Things You'll Need
- Olive oil
- Shampoo
- Scalp scaling liquid
- Shower cap
- Antihistamine


