What to do about an irritated scalp
Everyone suffers from it sometimes, an irritated scalp. While it quickly goes away for some people, for others it stays for months. The symptoms go from a burning feeling and itchiness to pain and redness. Luckily, where there are causes, there are solutions.
Causes of an irritated scalp
Do you suffer from an irritated, dry or sensitive scalp? You can divide the causes in two groups; internal and external causes.
Internal causes of an irritated scalp:
- a change in the hormone balance;
- age; the skin will get dryer when you get older;
- skinproblems such as psoriasis and eczema;
- stress.
External causes of an irritated scalp:
- an aggressive shampoo with SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate);
- aggressive hair treatments such as bleaching or permanent dye;
- changes of the temperature or seasons;
- a bad diet or smoking;
- environmental pollution;
- certain medication.
How does an irritated scalp develop?
An irritated scalp causes white flakes (dandruff) to appear that cause an itchy and burning feeling. The natural flora of your scalp is affected, resulting certain micro-organisms to multiply. The skin on your scalp is normally renewed every three weeks. The skin will start to fall off in minuscule flakes that you're not able to see with the naked eye. This means you don't notice you're scalp is renewing itself. When the natural flora is being affected, your scalp will renew itself quicker. The minuscule flakes will clump together, resulting in dandruff.
Restoring an irritated scalp
White flakes and a painful, irritated scalp are generally not seen as enjoyable. But what can you do to restore an irritated scalp? The first thing, is using a mild shampoo. Most shampoos clean your hair by using SLS, an aggressive substance that gives you that layer of foam while washing your hair. This feels great, but it's bad for your scalp. This is because it strips the natural oils of your hair, causing the skin on your head to dry out and get irritated. One of the worst things you can do is use an anti-dandruff shampoo. These shampoos are very aggressive and only a temporary solution. Try to wash your hair no more then one or two times a week.
Treat your hair extra by using a nourishing mask. Our Colour Mask contains various gentle and nourishing ingredients, such as calendula, aloe vera and pomegranate extract. It hydrates and restores your hair in a natural way.
The last thing, is to protect your scalp from cold and heat; wear a beanie in the winter and a hat in the summer. Are you suffering from a dry scalp because you're getting older? Treat your hair with a mask or gently massage it with some coconut oil. The last thing that can help is to have a healthy and balanced diet.
Psoriasis or eczema
Have you followed the previous tips and are you still not seeing change? Or has your scalp been affected so much you have small wounds? There's a chance you're suffering from a different condition, such as eczema or psoriasis. In these cases it's highly recommended to make an appointment with your doctor. Your doctor can tell you exactly what to do and possibly give you a prescription for a mild medication to stop irritation.
Dyeing your hair with an irritated scalp
When you're suffering from an irritated scalp, but still want to dye or bleach your hair, make sure to pay attention to the following things:
- Perform an allergy test with the hairdye or bleach you want to use.
- Do not dye or bleach your hair when you have open wounds on your scalp.
- Don't wash your hair for three days before dyeing or bleaching. The oils on your skin will protect your scalp.
- Use a less aggressive dye or bleach.
- Mix our Colour Mask in with the hair dye to protect your scalp.
- Dye or bleach your hair with an as low as possible percentage of hydrogen peroxide.
- After dyeing your hair, use a mild shampoo and lukewarm water to rinse it out.
After reading this blog, you will know how irritated scalp is caused, how to recognise it and what to do about it.
