Scalp issues can be frustrating and embarrassing. Think of those little white specks, the incessant irritation, and hair thinning. However, an itchy scalp can be fixed. You need to know the causes and the best scalp treatments to help you.
Why Scalp Health is Crucial for Hair Growth
The hair needs a healthy scalp to grow. The scalp provides the necessary conditions for the hair follicles to work effectively. It also provides oxygen and nutrients, which are needed by the hair follicles to encourage hair growth.
The micro-organisms that protect the hair follicles against damaging fungi and bacteria are nurtured by the scalp as well. Once these microbes cannot be supported anymore, the scalp is prone to infections. This can harm or even weaken the hair follicles and may lead to hair thinning or even complete loss.
Common Scalp Issues & Causes
The scalp can be plagued by different issues, which are caused by bacterial infections, poor hygiene, or a reaction to certain hair care products. Some of the common issues with the scalp are discussed below:
Dandruff
This is a fungal infection that leads to the shedding of the skin cells on the scalp. Yeast Malassezia, or the fungus that causes dandruff, inhabits the scalp naturally. When the yeast grows in quantity, it triggers an irritation cycle, which is what leads to scalp flaking and itching.
Similarly, dandruff can be a consequence of a dry scalp. A dry scalp usually triggers the production of more oil, resulting in yeast overgrowth.
If oil buildup is your biggest issue, you might want to read 10 Simple Steps to Get Rid of an Oily Scalp.
Dry Scalp
A dry scalp can give rise to scalp itching and flaking, but it is different from dandruff because it is marked by a lack of moisture. The causes of dry scalp are environmental conditions, harsh hair products, or underlying skin conditions.
For example, sun exposure or dry air can dry out the scalp. Sulphate-containing hair products can also strip your scalp of its natural oils. It is also possible that over washing or heat styling is the reason your scalp is dry.
Other Culprits
Irritation (from hair products or residue) can also incite itching and flaking. AAD says that not rinsing out shampoo thoroughly, or having an allergic reaction to a dye or shampoo ingredient, can leave your scalp red and itchy. Hives, eczema, or even head lice can also cause flare-ups, but that is less common for most people.
Key Ingredients for Targeted Scalp Treatment
Different scalp problems call for different fixes. The good news is that there are many natural ingredients for a healthy scalp. Here are some of the active ingredients required in your scalp treatment products:
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Aloe Vera: With its high fatty acid content, studies indicate that aloe vera reduces scalp inflammation. It also reduces itchiness and cleanses excess oil without causing irritation.
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Coconut Oil: A 2003 study shows that coconut oil minimizes protein loss in both damaged and undamaged hair – preventing breakage and maintaining the strand's health.
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Salicylic Acid: This chemical exfoliant helps shed built-up dead skin from the scalp and unclog the hair follicles. You do not want to overuse it, though, as it can lead to a dry scalp.
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Argan Oil: Argan oil has been found to restore moisture in the scalp and control oil. Further, it may also improve hair elasticity when used on a regular basis. Vitamin E present in argan oil protects the scalp against environmental damage—thereby supporting fresh hair growth.
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Zinc Pyrithione: This FDA-recommended ingredient is a fungus killer, killing dandruff-causing yeast the instant it comes in contact with it. Research establishes that shampoo with zinc pyrithione content can stop the growth of yeast and minimize the presence of fungus on the scalp after some time.
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Vitamins and Proteins: Vitamins A, C, E, and B-complex support hair follicles. For example, the vitamins A, C, E, B12, and folic acid contents in aloe vera have been linked to stronger hair and less shedding.
Top 5 Scalp Treatment Products From GK Hair
Scalp treatment can be overwhelming with so many products out there. Here are our top five picks:
Clarifying Shampoo
GK Hair's PH+ Shampoo is used as a first step before treatments. This shampoo is fortified with aloe vera and vitamins to help rinse off oils and styling products without agitating the hair cuticle. In other words, it will rinse off dead skin and residue without stripping—enabling your regular shampoo/conditioner to do its job.
Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner
If you’re dealing with a dry scalp, GK Hair’s Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner are your best bet. It is a hydrating duo with coconut oil and plant proteins (such as quinoa and pea). The moisture is locked in with the help of coconut oil, which seals your hair cuticle, and the protein blend strengthens your strands.
Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
This is one of the best solutions for chronic dandruff and itching. We recommend GK Hair’s Anti-Dandruff Shampoo since it contains zinc ingredients that prevent the development of yeast. It also moisturizes and soothes the scalp; thus reducing flakes and irritation.
Argan Oil Serum
Once flakes are under control, your next task is to support new hair growth with a nourishing serum. GK Hair's Serum Argan Oil delivers fatty acids into the hair follicles, improving hair elasticity. Just apply a few drops on your palms and apply evenly through your hair.
Balancing Shampoo
GK Hair’s Balancing Shampoo is designed to eliminate excess oils at the roots and moisturize the ends. It balances the pH level of the scalp and regulates sebum, thus flakes and grease are kept at bay.
When to See a Dermatologist
If you've been diligent with the above approach and nothing is working – or if your scalp is red, painful, or bleeding – it's time to seek out a professional. Generally, dermatologists recommend that you see a doctor after 4-6 weeks of over-the-counter or home treatment without improvement. They can get to the roots of your scalp problems and prescribe stronger treatments.
Final Thoughts
Having a healthy scalp is the key to having flake-free, itch-free, growing hair; yet, there is no magic bullet that will do everything for you in a night. Rather, choose a single good habit or product and keep to it. Start with one form of treatment this week (perhaps a new shampoo) and watch how good your scalp feels.
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