Natural Scalp Treatment

Why is my scalp so itchy?

Itchy scalps can have many causes—but the most frequent culprit behind itchy scalps is seborrheic dermatitis (a.k.a. dandruff).

So what causes dandruff?

Dryness (lack of moisture leads to scalp itchiness and flakes)
Excess oil (yep, too much oil can also cause dandruff)
A yeast-like fungus (malassezia) that feeds on oils on the scalp
Irritation from extensions, hair care products, or product buildup on scalp  

Besides dermatitis, what else can cause an itchy scalp?

Psoriasis (7.5 million Americans have psoriasis, and more than half of those experience outbreaks on the scalp) ll).

Protective styles like braids, wigs, and weaves

Stress, which can throw your body’s oil production out of whack

Hormone fluctuations, which can also disrupt oil production and skin cell turnover

Think about what’s causing your dry head. The better you can identify the root cause or causes of your itchiness and flaking, the better you’ll be able to choose an effective dry scalp treatment.  

How to get rid of dandruff and itchy scalps

Keep in mind that scalp psoriasis and dermatitis share some similar symptoms (flaking, itchiness, and redness) but require different treatments. If you’re not sure whether you have scalp psoriasis or dermatitis, talk to a dermatologist who can properly diagnose you!

If you have scalp psoriasis:
A wide range of plant remedies have been shown to help soothe the itching, flaking, redness and pain associated with scalp psoriasis. Some scalp psoriasis sufferers find that adding plant-based remedies to their regiments make their prescribed medications more effective.

Always patch test a new ingredient on your skin first before applying to your scalp! 

Cannabidiol (CBD). Cannabidiol has been shown to act as an anti-inflammatory. Several studies show cannabinoids and cannabinoid receptors play a critical role in regulating the production of skin cells, and may have therapeutic potential in treating psoriasis. Because CBD is also helpful for pain, it’s great for relieving scalp discomfort.

Baobab oil. A traditional African medicinal plant for thousands of years, the fruit of the baobab tree is rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Omega 3 fatty acids. It’s a deep hydrator that’s also anti-inflammatory and extremely gentle on sensitive skin. One study found baobab oil more beneficial to dry, irritated skin than liquid paraffin or Vaseline.

Castor seed oil. Once a staple of Cleopatra’s beauty regimen, castor oil is rich in ricinoleic acid (RA), which has pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects.

Tea tree oil. This popular skin care ingredient has well-documented antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, and is noted on the National Psoriasis Foundation website as beneficial to some scalp psoriasis sufferers.

Peppermint oil. Peppermint has been used medicinally for centuries. That cool sensation you get from peppermint is menthol, which can calm hot, inflamed scalps. Numerous studies have found peppermint is a gentle, safe anti-itch treatment.

Coconut oil. Cold-pressed virgin coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties. Many psoriasis patients find coconut oil can help soften skin plaques and ease the itching caused by scalp psoriasis.

Aloe vera. In some studies, aloe vera has been shown to help reduce redness and result in significant clearing of the psoriatic plaques.


If you have dandruff (a.k.a dermatitis):

Cannabidiol (CBD). CBD acts on specific cannabinoid receptors, and can reduce inflammatory cytokines on the scalp. CBD can also help balance your scalp’s oil production, bringing it back into balance if you have too much or too little sebum.

Jojoba oil. Jojoba oil has remarkably similar properties to our skin's own oil (sebum), which allows it to penetrate deeply for maximum hydration.

Apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar is anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and acidic, which can help adjust the pH of the scalp to optimal levels while gently exfoliating product buildup.

Castor oil. Castor oil is not only intensely hydrating, it’s anti-fungal as well, which can reduce bacterial or fungal overgrowth on the scalp that can cause dandruff.

Rosemary and other essential oils. Rosemary’s anti-fungal activity is well-documented, but essential oils derived from peppermint, lemon, and grapefruit have also been shown in numerous studies to have strong anti-fungal properties, which may help with dermatitis that’s caused by fungus.

Tea tree oil. This essential oil and popular skin care ingredient has so many documented antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, it’s actually noted on the National Psoriasis Foundation website as beneficial to some scalp psoriasis sufferers.