Some people excrete more oil from their pores, which can result in oily hair. You may also find that your oily hair is accompanied by a dry and flaky scalp. Dry scalp is often mistaken as a condition that is exclusive to people with dry hair and skin. On the contrary, dryness can occur when your scalp produces excessive amounts of oil, which then ends up in your hair. According to mothernature.com, this is a result of hormones that cannot be controlled. Still, there are ways to treat your dry scalp and its subsequent oil deposits in your hair.
Treatment
Step 1
Determine the severity of your dry scalp. Mild dandruff is easily treatable, while thicker scales require more work. According to Medline Plus, seborrheic dermatitis is a common scalp condition that results from oiliness. It is characterized by thick scales that are yellow or white in color.
Step 2
Shampoo hair daily if your dry scalp is mild, using a regular gentle shampoo. Try to avoid chemical-based shampoos as this may worsen your condition. Regular shampooing keeps excess oil at bay, resulting in a normal, healthy scalp.
Step 3
Use an over-the-counter anti-dandruff shampoo for seborrheic dermatitis. Look for a product that contains selenium sulfide, such as Selsun Blue.
Step 4
Wet your hair and massage selenium sulfide onto your scalp. Leave it on for up to 3 minutes.
Step 5
Rinse your hair completely, as selenium sulfide can irritate your scalp if its remnants are left behind. Do not get the product into your eyes.
Step 6
Use selenium sulfide twice a week, and then use regular shampoo on days in between.
Tips and Warnings
- See a dermatologist for a prescription medication if your scalp does not improve. Products like Selsun Blue and Head and Shoulders go a long way. Use no more than a quarter-sized amount. Brush your scalp frequently to help loosen any scales associated with a dry scalp. Apply conditioner to your ends only.
- Do not use anti-dandruff shampoos on children under the age of 2 years unless directed by your pediatrician. Medline Plus advises that you do not use products with selenium sulfide on broken skin. Call your doctor if you experience any side effects after using selenium sulfide. According to Medline Plus, side effects may include hair loss, hair discoloration, irritation or a worsened condition. Avoid using an abundance of hair styling products, as they can increase the oiliness in your hair and scalp, thereby worsening your condition.
Things You'll Need
- Anti-dandruff shampoo
