From Dull to Dazzling: 9 Powerful Solutions for Common Scalp Symptoms
Perhaps you’re plagued by dull, limp hair, an itchy and flaky scalp, or persistent dandruff. Well, rest assured you’re not alone. These common scalp symptoms can be a frustrating and confidence-diminishing experience for many individuals of all different hair types.
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The good news is, with the right treatment plan, what you’re experiencing can be managed. While not all hair and scalp conditions are curable, there are healthy ways to address them and ease some of your struggles. Rejuvenating your hair and reclaiming a healthier scalp is a matter of getting to the root causes behind your symptoms (Read my blog about the nine common scalp symptoms and what they’re trying to tell you for more on this).
Whether it’s hormonal imbalances, improper hair care routines, or even genetic predispositions, I feel confident there’s a tailored approach to find you the most effective solutions for your symptoms. So, in accordance with my blog about the nine common scalp symptoms and what they’re trying to tell you, I’m offering you a beginner’s guide to the best solutions for your hair and scalp issues based on my professional insight, scientific research, and practical experience.
Let’s banish these scalp symptoms once and for all.
Dull Hair
Keeping a healthy cleansing routine 3-4 times a week is ideal for those who experience dull hair. Be sure you’re using the right shampoo and conditioner for your hair type, avoiding products with harsh chemicals and sulfates that might strip away natural oils. You might even want to try a deep conditioning treatment that restores moisture and nourishment to the hair from root to tip.
Products like dry shampoo and scalp hair fibers also contribute to dull hair. Overuse of dry shampoo for more than 1-2 days coats the hair shaft and creates product build-up. You can use a clarifying shampoo to help remove product buildup.
Hair scalp fibers work well to cover the scalp and give the hair a thicker feel, but they do contribute to dullness. If you know you’re staying in or don’t have a Zoom meeting that day, consider skipping a day or two of using the product.
Don’t forget to get regular trims and avoid heat styling when you can!
Limp Hair
Not washing your hair enough is often a primary reason people experience limp hair. The key is to get into a beauty routine habit with your hair and scalp. Treat your scalp like you would your face. Would you apply powder on your face and then not wash it for a week? No! So, it’s the same with shampooing. Shampoo removes sebum, fungal build-up, styling products, eccrine and apocrine sweat, and environmental build-up like soot and toxins from the air.
If you have kinky, coily hair, be sure you’re using sulfate-free, SLS-free, and paraben-free products. Shampoo for over-porous hair should also be SLS-free. Stay away from sulfates if you’re prone to rosacea and eczema. If you’ve got oily, thin, straighter hair, there are some sulfates that could be useful as long as they don’t strip your hair of its natural oils. Look for nonionic ingredients. These are neutral substances (compounds) that are mild and gentle on the hair while still having moisturizing properties that do not strip the hair of natural oils.
At my trichology center, I offer an arrangement of shampoos and conditioners to help clean and hydrate the hair and scalp. My personalized scalp treatments all contain salicylic acid to exfoliate the scalp and balance the microbiome.
Itchy Scalp
The best way to reduce itchy scalp (pruritus) is with salicylic acid and coal tar compounds applied directly to the scalp. People can use these until the itching stops, which can be anywhere from two weeks to a month.
An itchy scalp causes inflammation, so reduce your spicy food intake and follow an anti-inflammatory diet to help. Moisturizing the scalp with aloe vera could also be a great option. This natural plant has wonderful hydrating properties along with great anti-inflammatory agents that soothe the itching. Zinc and iron may also play a role in reducing inflammation. Focusing on decreasing your stress levels can also promote scalp health if you experience itching.
If this symptom persists, a board-certified trichologist like myself can evaluate your scalp condition, identify any underlying causes, and recommend specific treatments or medications if necessary.
Flaky Scalp
A flaky scalp (pityriasis capitis) is a relapsing condition that is not contagious but will require constant maintenance to avoid experiencing a flare-up of symptoms. Try using a shampoo that contains zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or 1% salicylic acid. These ingredients are often found in anti-dandruff shampoos. Be mindful that coal tar does have a potent scent, but it is highly effective.
While washing your hair, be sure you’re gently massaging and rinsing your products properly. Use your fingertips to gently massage the scalp to loosen and remove flaky build-up. Do not scratch or rub vigorously as this could worsen the condition. Opt for sulfate-free shampoos, too.
*Remember that each person’s scalp is unique, even if the symptom seems to fit what you’re experiencing. It may take some trial and error to find the best approach for you. That’s why seeking a trichologist could be helpful to support you to find a scalp and hair care plan that fits your needs.
Scaly Scalp
Scaly scalp (usually diagnosed as psoriasis) is an autoimmune issue that should not be overlooked. There is no way to cure psoriasis, but there are ways to reduce the symptoms. Constant flare-ups are due to non-compliance. You want to massage your scalp around three times a week with an anti-fungal shampoo. If you have ethnic, sensitive hair, you probably have a less active sebaceous gland, which means your hair is often dry and fragile. Try a weekly hair care routine to reduce symptoms.
And let me just say, autoimmune problems are worsened by stress and poor diet. Dairy, wheat, yeast, and gluten can all make your symptoms worse along with daily stressors. Basically, taking care of your mind and body also takes care of your scalp and hair health.
At my trichology center, I ensure you are using a shampoo that removes the flakes along with a conditioner that hydrates your hair and keeps the hair shaft from becoming too dry. I offer a 3% salicylic acid and 3% coal tar compound mixture applied to the scalp for 30 minutes up to 4 times a week. These ingredients can also be taken orally, along with L-Tyrosine, a pure amino acid that reduces inflammation. I also recommend Oribe Serene Scalp Anti-Dandruff shampoo.
Oily Scalp
Oily scalp is generally caused by overactive sebaceous glands and overactive sweat glands. A proper shampooing routine is essential if you have an oily scalp. You want to try gentle, clarifying shampoos designed to remove excess oil, dirt, and buildup from the scalp without stripping away essential moisture. Avoid letting your conditioner touch your scalp, use it for the middle-to-end of the hair shafts.
Oribe Oil Control is a product that works well for coily, wavy, and thicker hair types. If you have thin, fine hair, you should try the Oribe Serene Scalp collection. There are many key ingredients you want to consider looking for that these products include. Like a biome-balancing complex, a rosebay extract with green marine algae that naturally regulates and rebalances the scalp’s microbiome. Biomimetic amino acid is another active ingredient that reduces excess oil and sebum. Sugar-derived prebiotics can stimulate optimal scalp health by rebalancing the skin’s bacterial landscape.
If the oily scalp persists, a trichologist might recommend certain anti-dandruff shampoos that also work well to remove oils.
Smelly Scalp
Scalp odor is usually due to poor hygiene habits. The scalp hair needs to be cleaned regularly, or you run the risk of causing fungal and bacterial overgrowth on the scalp. Consider exfoliating your scalp to get rid of dead skin cells, excess oils, and product build-up that can contribute to scalp odor. Apple cider vinegar and rosemary oil are great to incorporate into your exfoliation routine. Oribe Serene Scalp Exfoliating Scrub is another product to consider using bi-weekly.
Avoid heavy or oil-based hair products that can trap moisture and create odor-causing bacteria. Look for a water-based hair product, instead. If you have fragile or coily hair, minimize oil-based products to once a week and be sure they’re fragrance-free. Fragrant products can irritate the scalp and actually cause your scalp to smell.
Dandruff
Dandruff can be caused by an overgrowth of yeast on the scalp called Malassezia, which can lead to an increased risk of flakes, as well. Consider an anti-dandruff shampoo that has zinc pyrithione or coal tar to help. Keep your scalp moisturized and avoid harsh products that can irritate the scalp or exacerbate dandruff. Limiting your heat styling can also be helpful because heat can contribute to scalp dryness and dandruff.
A balance of vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids also promotes a healthy scalp. As a trichologist, I recommend vitamins A, C, E, and D, along with B1, B2, B6, and B12.
Sticky Dandruff
Sticky dandruff (often called seborrheic dermatitis) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that occurs in areas rich in oil glands—like the scalp. Antifungal shampoos are key in treating this condition to help combat underlying fungal growth that contributes to sticky dandruff. Zinc pyrithione, coal tar, and salicylic acid are all potential active ingredients involved in this type of treatment. Gently massage it into your scalp without scratching and rinse thoroughly so there’s no residue.
Aloe vera also has natural anti-fungal properties that are well-tolerated on the skin. You can massage it into your scalp, leave it for 30 minutes, and rinse it thoroughly. Avoid using tea tree oil. Studies have shown it can be irritating on the scalp despite it being marketed as a scalp remedy.
Work with a Certified Trichologist
As a certified trichologist, I’ve dedicated my career to understanding the intricacies of the scalp and finding effective solutions to restore its natural balance. Addressing common scalp symptoms requires a comprehensive approach that considers individual needs and incorporates effective solutions.
I have witnessed firsthand the impact these symptoms can have on one’s well-being. By incorporating these solutions into your hair care routine, you can achieve a healthier, balanced scalp with vibrant hair.
Remember to seek professional guidance when needed. Consider working with me for a scalp analysis so we can find a personalized treatment plan that manages this condition. A healthy scalp is the foundation for beautiful hair, and taking care of your scalp is an investment in your self-care and hair health journey.
All Content © 2023 Penny James Trichology Center