How to Combat Dry Scalp in Winter

Everyone experiences mild to moderate dry scalp at some point, but for some it’s a chronic problem, especially this time of year, as the weather zaps moisture out of our hair and scalp.


Since winter can bring the dreaded dry scalp or worsen an existing scalp condition, we’ve compiled a list of treatment alternatives to clear your scalp and keep dryness at bay. These solutions should work for you if your condition is truly dry scalp and not a more serious problem like dandruff (which is usually caused by oily scalp) or eczema (which may call for a prescribed medicated shampoo).

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Follow these remedies for removing stubborn dryness and normalizing your scalp to regain bounce, smoothness, and a healthy head of confidence.



What Is Dry Scalp

According to the Mayo Clinic, dry scalp is more prevalent in winter and is often marked by small white flakes caused by cold weather, excessive dry heat or diet. One may also experience some itch and tightness with a dry scalp (but not excessive itching which is often caused by dandruff or eczema). Sometimes, you will find some flakes of dead skin, like dandruff. However, dry scalp is not dandruff. Your hair can also look lifeless, frizzy, dull, and easily break and fall out. Dry scalp can even lead to hair loss, if this condition is left untreated.


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Pre-Wash Treatments for Scalp

• Scalp Massage  The key to properly shampooing a dry scalp is in the prep. Massage your scalp with a soft pure boar bristle brush before washing to remove buildup of oil, hair products and skin cells. Pure boar bristles are designed to lift away dirt and dust and distribute the natural oil from your scalp.
• DIY Hair Masks An oil treatment for your scalp will help to deeply moisturize your scalp and lock-in that natural moisture balance. We recommend using coconut oil as a highly effective intense natural conditioner for the hair and scalp. Rub directly onto dry scalp and hair, put a shower cap on and leave for a minimum of 45 minutes for a deep moisture mask. You may also refer back to our beloved Homemade Coconut Oil and Honey Hair Mask for an effective, pleasurable treat for your hair and scalp. Another home remedy involves mixing equal parts apple cider vinegar with water, spraying the solution onto the scalp, and waiting at least 15 minutes before rinsing. Regardless of the mask you choose, try keeping with a mask once a week until you’ve noticed an improvement–and you will!

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Proper Shampoos for Dry Scalp

• Detox/Moisturizing Shampoo You may have to experiment or alternate between shampoos, but professional detoxing and/or quality moisturizing shampoos can make all the difference. For a good detox, try Pantene’s Damage Detox Shampoo to properly cleanse the scalp. For excellent moisturization, try hydrating shampoos like Verb Hydrating Shampoo or Moroccan Oil Hydrating Shampoo which are free of sulfates and parabens.
• Medicated Shampoo Sometimes a medicated shampoo is necessary for stubborn dryness. Try Sebamed Everyday Shampoo, developed by Dermatologists and botanically-based to protect the natural balance of your scalp. Gentle enough for daily use, this medicated shampoo will not strip natural oils or irritate the scalp like soap-based shampoos.
• Natural Shampoo Tea Tree, a natural ingredient, has been proven to remove oil buildup. Try the ever-popular Jason’s Tea Tree Scalp Normalizing Shampoo to eliminate excessive dry skin and gradually normalize the scalp. This product contains Australian tea tree oil, known for its anti-bacterial and anti-fungicidal properties, combined with selected botanicals and protein to purify and fortify hair follicles. Another added bonus–it’s Vegan.

Topical Spot Treatments

1. Daily Hair Lotion Over washing can leave your scalp dry, itchy and flaky. By applying Dr. Hauschka’s Neem Hair Lotion you may need to wash your hair less or can quickly attend to any dryness or scaling around your hairline. This product is designed to aid both oily and dry scalp conditions due to Neem Leaf Extract, which discourages bacteria and prevents flaking, Calendula which soothes and calms irritation and Nettle which works as an astringent.
2. Beauty Tip In a pinch, try Burt’s Bees Hand Salve. Designed for severely dry hands, the botanical oils and beeswax in this amazing skin salve can also alleviate any irritation or flare-ups along the hairline.

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Internal Remedies and Diet

1. Fatty Acids A diet rich in essential fatty acids (like flaxseeds, walnuts and salmon) and minimizing coffee and alcohol can help alleviate dry scalp.
2. Kelp  Kelp, a seaweed, is an excellent source of essential and trace minerals needed for proper functioning of many bodily systems. Kelp is especially high in iodine, which is known to support hair growth and scalp healing. To be safe, talk to a doctor or dietitian about using kelp for scalp health, and check the label of your kelp supplement for the exact iodine content.
3. Drink More Water Keeping yourself hydrated with water is a complete skin savior especially when it comes to your scalp. Adding some serious hydration to your diet will balance out scalp issues and is the most effective, inexpensive and easiest thing one can do!

Courtesy The Everygirl