If you suffer from dandruff or dry scalp you can relate that it feels like there is a blizzard happening anytime you touch or scratch your scalp. Yet many think that dry scalp and dandruff are the same, but they are not. Let me explain the differences.
Dandruff
Dandruff is when your scalp begins to “flake.” Your scalp can become really itchy and irritated to the point it becomes inflamed. Dandruff actually occurs more than we recognize, but cannot be seen until your scalp becomes so red and irritated that the flakes or cells of your scalp overproduce causing visible flakes.
Dry Scalp
Dry Scalp is less noticeably than dandruff, although there maybe “flaking” it is still not as visibly. Dry Scalp can be caused from many issues, so finding out which issue is causing your skin or scalp to be dry can be as simple or complicated as you make it.
Reasons for Dry Scalp:
- Oily Scalp
Our scalps already produce a natural oil known as sebum, but sometimes your scalp can overproduce this natural oil. Also, sometimes you are putting too much other oils on your scalp.
- Different Hair Products
Overusing/Sensitivity too many products can be very drying to your scalp. This can be from trying out excessive products including different shampoos, which can be drying.
- Not cleansing the scalp
Infrequent shampooing can lead to the build up or dirt/ dandruff that can cause dry scalp, and irritation.
Everyone in some aspect will receive some type of dandruff or dry scalp in one way or another. For dandruff there is no simple fix, but seeing a dermatologist can be beneficial to treating it. For dry scalp there is many different simple fixes.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea Tree Oil has been used for centuries to cure dry scalp/skin. You can add a few drops of tea tree oil to each product you are using (Shampoo, Conditioner, etc) or you can apply it directly to the scalp. If applied to products use about 5 drops. If applied directly to your scalp use about 2 drops in each section. Tea Tree Oil is said too be anti-fugal and can soothe itching and inflammation.
Jamaican Black Castor Oil
JBCO is one of the best oils to use for dry dry or even dandruff. It also has properties that age in the growth of hair. Put JBCO in an application bottle and apply it to your scalp nightly, or as needed. You can also add it to your products as well for added benefit.
Apple Cider Vinegar
ACV is not only a pH balancer, which is great to use to bring pH balance back after shampooing, but it is also a great clarifier. When applied to the scalp ACV clarifies/cleanses away the product build up . It does all of this without stripping your hair of its natural oils.
Let me know in the comments if you found this helpful!
Kineatra Jones, MS founder & editor of NaturallyNex.com. She has a passion for educating women on all things natural: hair, beauty, and life. NaturallyNex.com was created in August 2015 to share and connect with women who have a passion for natural hair and beauty. Overtime NaturallyNex has evolved into a beauty, lifestyle, and entertainment blog. Kineatra is focused on discussing natural hair, beauty, fashion, and travel as well as providing encouragement to others.