Are you suffering from an itchy scalp without any sign of dandruff? Can one develop dry itchy flaky scalp with no dandruff? Well in most cases, not all itchiness is caused by dandruff, at times one may experience very itchy one due to other conditions or diseases affecting the scalp or elsewhere in the body. From here, you will be up-to-date with causes, recommended shampoos, preventions, and solutions when itchiness is not accompanied with dandruff
Causes
Now, if you are having problems this issue with no dandruff, then all you need is to go through this article because your itching may be due to one or more of this itchy scalp no dandruff causes:
1. Scalp fungal infections
Having infection can lead to some sort of dandruff but this is not always the case. Fungal infection such as ringworm can also lead to this without the presence of dandruff. This kind of infection can start in a small portion then spread to the entire head if no prompt medical attention is offered. In it severe state, it can lead to itchy scalp and hair loss.
2. Lice invasion
Usually, lice do make a habitat on our scalp as it feeds on the blood. Lice bites can, therefore, lead to an allergic reaction which can lead to the itchy red scalp. They also lay eggs which trigger allergic reaction too. So if you are having problems with itchiness and you are sure it is all not about dandruff then check for head lice.
Lice bites are accompanied by reddish bumps on the scalp. This will make experience itchiness that may not be accompanied with dandruff. Once you discover this bothersome and worrisome insect on your scalp, please see your doctor to advise you on ways to get rid of them.
3. Dryness
When your scalp is exposed to direct sunlight, high temperature or if you wash your hair frequently without moisturizing it, then you are likely to be a victim of itchiness that does not come with the presence of there white flakes.
Very dry scalp could indicate that your skin is dehydrated or is lacking water and a protective oil layer. So, when it gets dry, your sebaceous gland will react by producing more sebum. It will be very unfortunate if they produce it in excess. The excess sebum (natural body oil) can clog the pores leading to scalp acne breakout. This will definitely lead to itchy scalp without no dandruff.
4. Reaction to hair products
Are you experiencing itchiness on this part and it is neither about dandruff nor lice? Good, this could be due to allergic reactions to products you use to care for your hair. In this case, you can examine on the new products that you have just applied. According to stronghair.org, “Your scalp could be reacting to your shampoo or conditioner and the itching could be as a result of contact dermatitis. Some ingredients like Sulphate in shampoos have been said to cause scalp itching”
Allergic reactions can also be due to side effects of certain medications and some foods. These are often accompanied by generalized itchy bumps that can cover a large area including the scalp or the whole body.
If not treated in time, the itching will trigger scratching that would lead to skin damage leading to more complicated infections. Looking for best shampoo for itchy sensitive scalp may be of a greater help.
5. Hormonal disorders
Unusual changes in the level of body hormones can also be among the reasons this condition. Such hormonal disorders are usually experienced during puberty, pregnancy, periods and menopause. This is what happens, the upsurge in the level of some sex hormones will influence the oil producing glands to be overactive hence producing extra oils. This in combination with dead skin cells will clog the body pores resulting in scalp acne breakout. This for sure will flare up some itchy bumps on the scalp.
6. Mites
These are very tinny insect which can also cause itching on the scalp. Seeing them with necked eyes is usually hectic so you should consult your doctor to do the diagnosis for you. They are always examined under a microscope. They will cause itchy scalp with small red bumps or red itchy one.
7. Hot water or shower
Using hot water to wash your hair or to shower can lead to the extremely itchiness without dandruff. Hot water will wash away the protective oil hence may lead to severe dry scalp and thus resulting to itching and scratching that would lead to very painful sore or leads to a secondary infection that may lead to more complications.
8. Tight braids and extensions
Tight braids and plaits and extensions can also lead to itching in scalp no dandruff. Tight braiding may pull the hair leading small itchy bumps. The extension can also increase perspiration leading to sweat rush. This can make it be extremely itchy.
9. Physical trauma
Physical trauma such as bruises and cuts can lead to open wounds or sore on the scalp. When such wounds and sores will start to heal, you may experience some itching sensation. This kind of itching will be present without any dandruff. Such trauma may also be experienced even during a hair transplant.
Itchy flaky scalp without dandruff
Usually, scalp flaking is a result of dryness and this is very different from dandruff even if flaking usually goes hand in hand with dandruff. So apart from dandruff, other causes of flaking include:
- Scalp psoriasis and eczema
- Accumulation of hair products
- Shampooing too often
- Cool weather
- Not properly rinsing out shampoo
Treatments or relief
Itchy scalp treatments options when without dandruff solely depend on the causes. Treating underlying condition or disease is the best idea so far. Such treatment will range from over the counter treatments or prescribed treatments to home remedies. In this section, we are going to explore more on the best shampoo for itchy scalp no dandruff as well as effective home remedies.
1. Shampoo
When suffering this condition, there are several shampoos that will help you contain this situation. But before you apply any shampoo for dry scalp, not dandruff, make a wise decision. Remember if you rush you will just end with a shampoo that can irritate it. There are specific ingredients in a shampoo you should be going for.
Certain medicated shampoo containing ingredients such as ketoconazole, coal tar, selenium, salicylic and corticosteroids can really help in relieving itchy scalp with no dandruff. More ingredients such as biotin and flucfluocinolone found are shampooed can also help.
If you don’t have sufficient information about the best shampoo for your itchiness, then you see your specialist for further advice.
Example of few recommended shampoos are; Selsun Blue Dandruff Shampoo and Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Lavender Mint Moisturizing Shampoo among others. But promise before you opt for any shampoo, you have to consult your specialist?
Home remedies
In instances where shampoo does not prove to be effective, there are also some natural remedies that can relieve itchy scalp no dandruff where shampoo will not. So here are some home remedies you can try:
1. Apple cider vinegar
This product is the most effective natural cure for itchy scalp. It is readily available in our kitchens. To try out this wonderful product you, will need to soak it with apple cider vinegar and leave it there for about ½ an hour. You can thereafter wash it using water. Using apple after washing your hair will be very effective I can assure you. Try this remedy for quick and effective itchy scalp relief.
2. Apply tea tree oil
Tea tree oil also known as melaleuca is an essential oil that has got antioxidant and antimicrobial significance that can really help in calming itchy oil. It fights everything that can cause itchy scalp no dandruff, I mean bacteria, fungus, and viruses. Many researchers have proved that this essential oil is perfect for dealing with inflammatory conditions such as Psoriasis among others. Just apply pure tea oil and massage on your hair and scalp and wait for 20 minutes then rinse off. You can also blend it with other proved essential oils to improve its effectiveness
3. Rinse using lemon juice
Lemon can also be used to control itchy scalp. Be sure to apply some lemon juice and leave it for about 10 minutes and then wash it off. One thing you should know about this remedy is that it can help control itchiness but prolonged use can lead to hair thinning. In cases of itchy hair no dandruff, make sure you dilute the juice using water. Be sure about its sensitivity before application.
4. Apply hair and scalp mask
Applications of ingredients such as honey, avocado, and banana to mask your scalp can also help in relieving the itchiness. Hairstylecolor.org proves that “This ingredient like honey is an ancient remedy for wound healing, with many reports suggesting that the microorganisms found in honey help fight bacteria and fungi.” Mask is a usually good remedy to treat itchy scalp since they fight bacteria that can cause acne and is only applied for a few weeks.
5. Aloe vera
This is always an excellent natural moisturizer that is ideal for an itchy dry flaky scalp. It also has antiseptic and antibacterial properties that make it potent for treating this problem. All you need is to get fresh aloe gel and then apply it directly on scalp. You should then leave it for about 15 minutes before you rinse it off.
More natural home products that can also help treat itchy scalp no dandruff are sesame oil, witch hazel, jojoba oil and baking soda.
Tip on how to prevent or reduce the problem
Though not all causes of itching scalp no dandruff can be controlled, there are those that can be prevented. Remember prevention is the most important stage of treating this condition. Try this tips to prevent or reduce the risk of suffering from this problem:
- Make sure your hair and scalp are kept clean to avoid lice and mice infestation. Regular cleaning will also get rid of build-ups that could lead to itchiness
- Avoid exposing your hair or yourself to direct sunlight or increased temperatures, this could lead to dry scalp leading to itching.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals and contaminated water on your scalp. Only use medicated shampoos friendly ones.
- Drink a lot of water to make sure your body is well hydrated to avoid dry scalp
- Make sure you keep your combs and hairbrushes clean and don’t share them to avoid spreading infections that could lead to itchiness
- Keep a healthy diet to avoid thyroid and overactive oil glands problems
- Stress, depression, and anxiety are the triggers for many skin conditions and so can apply to your scalp too. Try to avoid them. Consult your medical service provider on how to overcome them
- Always brush your hair regularly and carefully to enhance proper blood circulation in the scalp.
In case these home remedies and shampoos fail to give a positive result. Consult your doctor as soon as possible since your itchy scalp without dandruff could be due to the severe hidden medical condition that may be life-threatening. The doctor may recommend other strong medical treatments depending on the causes and the severity of the underlying symptoms.