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Causes of an itchy or dry scalp

3 minuten read time

Oorzaken van een jeukende of droge hoofdhuid

Author: Erika Candelario

An itchy scalp is annoying, and often doesn't have one clear cause. In this article you'll read about the most common causes of an itchy or dry scalp, what you can do about it yourself, and when it's better to see a doctor.

The difference between a dry scalp and dandruff

Not every flaky scalp is dandruff, and that distinction matters when choosing the right approach.

Did you know?

With a dry scalp the flakes are small, white and dry, and the skin often feels tight. Dandruff flakes are usually larger and can look oily or yellowish, and are often linked to a yeast-like fungus on the scalp.

Both complaints can cause itching, but the approach differs. If you're unsure what exactly is going on, a doctor or dermatologist is the best person to assess it.

The most common causes of itching and dryness

An itchy or dry scalp rarely has one clear cause. It's often a combination of factors, and the right approach depends on what is going on in your case.

Dehydration and disturbed moisture balance

Hard water, dry air, heating or showering too hot can disturb the moisture balance of your scalp. This dries out the skin, which often leads to itching and flaking.

Harsh hair products and washing too often

Shampoos with sulphates, fragrance or alcohol can dry out and irritate the scalp. Washing too often also damages the natural protective layer of your scalp, making it less resistant to external irritants.

Dandruff and skin conditions

Dandruff, seborrhoeic eczema and psoriasis are common causes of an itchy, flaking scalp. These conditions sometimes require medical treatment, so if in doubt, a doctor is the right person to turn to.

Dealing specifically with dandruff? Then discover our anti-dandruff shampoo bars for a gentle, nourishing approach.

Stress, hormones and weather conditions

Stress, hormonal fluctuations and changing weather conditions can affect the sensitivity of your scalp. Dermatological sources point to seasonal changes and temperature differences as factors that can make symptoms worse.

What can you do yourself about an itchy or dry scalp?

There are a few things you can do yourself to support your scalp.

  • Choose a gentle shampoo: without harsh cleansing agents, fragrance or alcohol
  • Wash with lukewarm water: water that's too hot dries the scalp out further
  • Don't wash too often: give the natural protective layer of your scalp the chance to recover
  • Avoid scratching: it can irritate the skin further and even damage it
  • Rinse thoroughly: shampoo residue can irritate the scalp

The gentle shampoo bars from WONDR are an example of such a mild cleanser. They are enriched with nourishing ingredients and cleanse gently, without drying out your scalp further. Discover the range of gentle shampoo bars as a complement to a nourishing routine.

When should you see a GP or dermatologist?

See a GP or dermatologist if the itching persists, if scabs, sores, severe redness, hair loss or pain develop, or if gentle care doesn't help.

This article is for information only and does not replace medical advice. If in doubt, a doctor or dermatologist is always the best person to assess your situation.

FAQ

Vaak een combinatie van factoren: een verstoorde vochtbalans (hard water, droge lucht, heet douchen), agressieve haarproducten of te vaak wassen, huidaandoeningen zoals roos of eczeem, en soms stress of hormonale schommelingen.
Bij een droge hoofdhuid zijn de schilfers klein, wit en droog, en voelt de huid strak aan. Roosschilfers zijn doorgaans groter en kunnen vettig of gelig ogen, en hangen vaak samen met een gistachtige schimmel op de hoofdhuid.
Kies een milde shampoo zonder agressieve reinigingsmiddelen, parfum of alcohol, was met lauwwarm water in plaats van heet, was niet te vaak, vermijd krabben en spoel goed uit.
Ja. Shampoos met sulfaten, parfum of alcohol kunnen de hoofdhuid uitdrogen en irriteren. Ook te vaak wassen tast de natuurlijke beschermlaag van je hoofdhuid aan.
Raadpleeg een huisarts of dermatoloog als de jeuk aanhoudt, als er korstjes, wondjes, hevige roodheid, haaruitval of pijn bij komen, of als milde verzorging niet helpt.

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