How to Get Rid of an Itchy Scalp

It's not uncommon to feel itching on your scalp. Often this inconvenience can be treated by something as simple as changing your hair-care routine. However, if the condition persists, it can be a sign of a medical condition. A few things can cause an itchy scalp—such as dry skin or hair-product buildup—and you can typically get rid of the problem by varying your hair- or skin-care products. Also check yourself for lice or mites, make sure that you're not sunburned, and drink plenty of water.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Improving Your Hair Care Routine

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1
Switch your shampoo for a more natural version. Buildup from your typical shampoo or conditioner may be coating your scalp and causing it to itch. Purchase a new shampoo and conditioner—preferably ones that contain natural ingredients, such as tea tree oil, coconut oil, jojoba, or zinc pyrithione.^{[1]XResearch source}
- Look for healthy shampoos at a local supermarket or health-food store.
2
Purchase hair-care products without fragrance.^{[2]XExpert SourceLydia Shedlofsky, DO
DermatologistExpert Interview. 11 November 2020.} Perfumes in hair-care products can irritate your scalp and cause it to itch. When shopping, look for products that state “fragrance free” on the label. If you can't find fragrance-free products, look for ones that state “hypoallergenic” on the label.^{[3]XResearch source}
- You can also try using a hair-care product that is designed for babies or individuals with sensitive skin.
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3
Groom your hair regularly. Brush or comb your hair two to three times per day to distribute natural oils, paying special attention to the scalp. Brushing your hair with a clean, soft hairbrush promotes blood flow and spreads natural oils to alleviate an itchy scalp.^{[4]XResearch source}
- Brush gently. Aggressive, harsh brushing may scratch or irritate your scalp and cause the itching to worsen.
4
Stop using hair-care products that contain alcohol. Keeping alcohol off of your scalp is also the most effective method to cut back on dandruff (which itself is a sign of an itchy scalp). Hair-care products that are high in alcohol can also lead to (or worsen the effects of) itchy and painful skin conditions on your scalp, including eczema, sebborhea, and seborrheic dermatitis.^{[5]XResearch source}
- Alcohol is a powerful drying agent, and it can easily dry out your scalp and cause it to itch badly.
5
Apply coconut oil to your scalp. Coconut oil creates a barrier that helps keep skin moisturized, and hence it is an effective way to treat an itchy scalp. To apply, rub a little coconut oil onto your scalp when it is clean (after you have washed your hair). Leave the oil on for at least half an hour, and then wash your hair with a perfume-free shampoo. Follow this remedy three times a week.
- Another option is to gently heat coconut oil so that it melts. Add it to your shampoo before washing your hair.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Caring for Your Scalp

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1
Treat head lice with a medicated shampoo. Head lice are unwanted and unpleasant, but they're easy to get rid of. Have somebody check your head for bugs or their eggs—called nits—attached near the base of the hair shaft. The itching that people feel when infested with lice is due to your skin reacting to the saliva of the lice.^{[6]XResearch source}
- To get rid of lice, use a medicated shampoo as directed, and wash all bedding and clothes you've worn.
- Have any non-washable items dry-cleaned (including plush toys).
- Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture.
- Soak hair-care products (combs, brushes, scrunchies, barrettes, etc.) in rubbing alcohol or medicated shampoo for an hour.
2
Apply aloe vera to alleviate sunburn symptoms. In the summer, especially the first bright days of summer, it's easy to get sunburned on your scalp. As your sunburned skin begins to heal, it will often start to feel itchy. Use an aloe vera shampoo or conditioner to alleviate the itching.^{[7]XResearch source}
- If you know you're going to be in the sun for over an hour, wear a hat or apply a layer of sunscreen to your scalp.
3
Dry your hair fully after a shower or bath. If you wear your hair long, don't put it up while it's still wet. Let your hair fully dry out before putting it up—otherwise, having wet hair pressed against your scalp all day will cause the skin to itch.
- Similarly, you may need to dry your hair and scalp after having been out in the sun for hours. If you're in the sun long enough to start sweating on your scalp, the excess sweat production can also cause your scalp to itch.
4
Apply a topical treatment to stop scalp psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic condition in which skin cells grow at an unnatural rate and become red, raised patches. The buildup of extra skin cells can cause itching and discomfort. Psoriasis can typically be treated with a topical ointment or medicated shampoo containing salicylic acid.^{[8]XTrustworthy SourceMayo ClinicEducational website from one of the world's leading hospitalsGo to source}
- If you think you have this condition, talk to your primary doctor or dermatologist. They should be able to prescribe you a medicated ointment or shampoo, or recommend an over-the-counter option.
5
Visit a dermatologist for ongoing itching.^{[9]XExpert SourceLydia Shedlofsky, DO
DermatologistExpert Interview. 11 November 2020.} If itching continues unabated, it could be a sign of a more serious medical skin condition including: shingles, fungal infections like Tinea Amiantacea or Lichen Planopilaris, dermatitis, and ringworm. Nearly all of these conditions will be accompanied by a flaky or oozing scalp or visible rash.^{[10]XResearch source}
- Consult with your doctor. They will be able to diagnose your condition and prescribe you the appropriate treatment.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Altering Your Lifestyle

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1
Give your scalp time to air out. Your scalp needs to “breathe” just like the rest of your skin, in order to remain healthy. If you always wear a hat or frequently wear a wig, you are likely restricting air flow to your scalp, which can cause your scalp to itch.
- If you notice your scalp itching more when you wear hats or wigs, take a break from the head coverings and let your scalp air out.
2
Stay well hydrated. Dehydration will affect your skin, and skin without enough water becomes dry and itchy. Although it's important to keep your hair hydrated through the use of hydrating, non-drying shampoo, you can help your scalp by avoiding bodily dehydration in general.^{[11]XResearch source}
- Talk to your doctor and he or she will tell you how much fluid you should be drinking for your age and weight. Average male and female adults should drink at least 13 cups (3 liters) and 9 cups (2.2 liters) of fluid a day, respectively.^{[12]XTrustworthy SourceMayo ClinicEducational website from one of the world's leading hospitalsGo to source}
3
Reduce your daily stress and anxiety to decrease itching. Anxiety can play havoc with a body in general, and it has an effect on your scalp, too. If you do not have a rash but feel itching on your face and neck, stress could be the primary factor causing these symptoms.^{[13]XResearch source} Easy ways to decrease your daily stress and anxiety include:
- Spend more time relaxing with family and friends.
- Talk about your stress or anxiety with a close personal friend or a therapist.
- Participate in a calming practice like yoga or meditation.
- Take an hour away from screens (phone, computer, TV, tablet) before your bedtime.

Expert Q&A

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Question
What causes scalp itchiness?
Lydia Shedlofsky, DO
Dermatologist
Dr. Lydia Shedlofsky is a Resident Dermatologist who joined Affiliated Dermatology in July of 2019 after completing a traditional rotating internship at Larkin Community Hospital in Miami, Florida. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology at Guilford College in Greensboro, North Carolina. After graduation, she moved to Beira, Mozambique, and worked as a research assistant and intern at a free clinic. She completed a Post-Baccalaureate program and subsequently earned a Master's Degree in Medical Education and a Doctorate of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) from the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Lydia Shedlofsky, DO
Dermatologist
Expert Answer
An itchy scalp can be caused by anything from dryness to allergies and infections. If your symptoms don't improve, I suggest you see a dermatologist for advice.
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Can an itchy scalp be a symptom of diabetes?
Jennifer Boidy, RN
Registered Nurse
Jennifer Boidy is a Registered Nurse based in Baltimore, Maryland. In addition to her nursing career, she also works as a Healthcare Content Strategist & Writer, helping businesses and non-profits market their products and services to healthcare provider organizations, pharmaceutical companies, and other healthcare services vendors. Jennifer’s areas of expertise include pharmaceuticals & life sciences, health technology, medical devices & diagnostics, health insurance & managed care, and healthcare services & facilities. Her certification as a Registered Nurse was issued by the Maryland Board of Nursing. She graduated from the University of Maryland with a BS in Marketing and Finance. She received her Associate of Science in Nursing from Carroll Community College in 2012.
Jennifer Boidy, RN
Registered Nurse
Expert Answer
It could be. High blood sugar, poor circulation, and skin infections from uncontrolled diabetes can result in dry, itchy skin. That being said, you're more likely to experience itching and dryness on your legs rather than your head if you have diabetes. Gaining better control of your diabetes may help reduce the itching on your scalp. If you suspect you have diabetes, talk with your healthcare provider as soon as possible.
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Tips

Wash your hair a maximum of 3 times per week. This will prevent your scalp from getting too dry.^{[14]XExpert SourceLydia Shedlofsky, DO
DermatologistExpert Interview. 11 November 2020.}
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Limit your use of heat styling tools, like blow-dryers and flat irons. These can cause heat damage on your hair and scalp.^{[15]XExpert SourceLydia Shedlofsky, DO
DermatologistExpert Interview. 11 November 2020.}
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However tempting it is, do not scratch your itchy scalp. Scratching will only worsen the problem.
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