Scalp care is top of mind for many people, given we know it's vital for healthy hair growth and shiny locks. Properly tending to your scalp takes a holistic approach, involving nutrition, lifestyle factors, and of course, natural hair products. However, it doesn't have to cost a fortune. In this blog post we’ll reveal the underlying causes that lead to a dry scalp, the difference between dry scalp and dandruff, and how to prevent it from happening in the first place.

What Causes a Dry Scalp?

Dry scalp is caused by a lack of moisture. A dry scalp can develop in one of two ways—either from buildup or from harsh ingredients causing flaking.

If you're flaking from a dry scalp with no sebum or product buildup, you’re probably using harsh cleansing agents in your shampoo or even excessively hot showers. If you’re flaking from an oily scalp, you may be over washing which disrupts your scalp's natural moisture balance. And if that's not the case, even stress can cause overproduction of sebum and make your scalp act out.

Environmental aggressors also play a role in your scalp's health. Too much sun exposure—without the proper protection—can burn your scalp, resulting in irritation and dryness. In addition, cold, dry hair can exacerbate a dry, flaky scalp.

If you have dry skin on your hairline—or anywhere else on your body for that matter—the likelihood that you have a dry scalp is even higher. Fortunately, there's a simple solution: hydration. By keeping your scalp moisturized, you can often avoid dryness. Still, if your dry scalp is caused by an allergy or seborrheic dermatitis (aka dandruff), you'll need to resort to another fix.

Dry Scalp vs. Dandruff

Dry scalp and dandruff might seem similar enough since the symptoms for both include dry, itchy, flaky, skin, but they are not. In fact, they require different treatments. Dry scalp is a hydration issue whereas dandruff is an inflammatory condition of the scalp.

DIY Scalp Slugging

• Revitalize your scalp and hair with an ancient hair care secret from the pristine isles of Fiji. For an extra treat for your tresses, indulge in a warm oil scalp treatment before cleansing. While still in your warm, steamy bathroom post-shower, apply Pure Fiji’s Exotic Oil down the part of your hair and continue moving through sections until you've covered at least four or five part-lengths in oil. Don't forget the underneath section of your scalp as well.
• Using a comb or brush, work the oil through your scalp and down into the strands. You'll want most of your hair at least slightly covered in oil (this is where the term "slugging" really manifests).
• The most important step is to gently massage the oil into your scalp. Start at the crown of your head and move outward. Be sure to use your fingertips, not your nails. Not only will this feel great, but it can also contribute to hair growth by stimulating the skin.
• Let the oil in your hair set for at least a few hours. This method may be best to do before bed or before you style your hair in an up-do. Either way, rinse out the oil and follow up with your normal wash routine.
• Follow this ritual with Pure Fiji's shampoo and conditioner. Coconut based cleansers will gently, but thoroughly remove all impurities and refresh your hair. Treats fungal and bacterial scalp conditions. Hair is then deeply conditioned, and balance restored with a synergistic blend of soy proteins and exotic drift nut oils.

How to Prevent a Dry Scalp

Avoid products that contain alcohol, sulfates, menthol, and eucalyptus. They can be drying and cause an imbalance in the pH of the scalp. Be sure not to use too much hair styling product like a mousse when styling the hair. Product buildup can cause the scalp to become oily. This can create an environment conducive to the growth of fungi and dandruff.

Key Takeaway

Dry scalp is a common condition associated with itching, redness, and flaking. Fortunately, it is treatable with the proper hair care routine—from pH-balanced cleansing products that specifically target a dry scalp to nourishing oils and serums that keep the scalp moisturized. However, if your condition persists you may want to visit your dermatologist to confirm your diagnosis as well as any contributing factors.