A dry scalp is a common nuisance especially in winter. The cause is mostly dry heated indoor air. Even more of a plague is dandruff, the frequent companion of the dry scalp. Find out what causes the itchy problem and what you can do to get the upper hand against the itch
Our scalp is protected by an outer layer of keratinocytes (horny cells). Lipids keep the scalp smooth and supple. This outer layer is a very effective barrier. Environmental influences can damage this barrier. As a result lipids no longer keep the barrier smooth and effective, and it therefore becomes permeable. The damaged barrier now fails to keep the moisture inside the scalp so that the skin is less able to ward off harmful substances. The results are more dryness, itching, burning, tension and dandruff.
Many factors can cause dry scalp conditions. The scalp is exposed to many adverse influences. Dry heated indoor air is certainly a common cause of dryness. Blow-dryer heat and excessive shampooing is not good for the scalp either. Then there are a myriad of styling products, which may not at all agree with your scalp.
The dry irritated scalp is prone to dandruff. There comes a point when the initially only dry scalp is irritated to such an extent that more and more cells are produced. Large numbers of dead cells will then accumulate on the scalp where they clump together and become visible as dandruff. Visible dandruff flakes create an unsightly mess on the shoulders and in the neck area. Dandruff flakes are particularly apparent on dark clothing.
Using mild, gentle hair care products usually restores a dry scalp to its natural balance and suppresses the dandruff formation. Suitable are especially gentle moisturising hair care products. Gentle products do not damage the scalp and the added moisture helps to repair the outer scalp barrier. Particularly suitable are balanced, coordinated hair care systems consisting of a mild shampoo, conditioner and targeted products such as a conditioning scalp serum. If your scalp tends to be dry you should not shampoo your hair more than necessary and not use excessive heat during styling or blow-drying. The best tips for the dry scalp care are: be gentle, provide extra moisture, protect your scalp, and carefully select proper and helpful hair care products.