An itchy, flaking scalp is aggravating and annoying. Besides dealing with visible flakes and scaling, a chronic itch distracts from our lifestyle and can bring some pretty curious looks. In more severe cases, left unchecked, scratching and inflammation can lead to infection and localized hair loss.
If you're one of the millions who suffer - as many of our customers do, finding the best shampoo for itchy, flaking scalp is probably at the top of your list when it comes to hair products. The good news is, there are several shampoos available that clear flakes (and prevent their return) while soothing and healing scalp tissue.
Itchy scalp can be the result of several factors. Dryness, excessive oil, bacteria and fungus, or the onset of scalp diseases such as dermatitis or psoriasis. Most common symptoms are white or yellow flakes, chronic itchiness (and scratching), and temporary thinning at the affected area.
Treatments for Itchy, Flaking Scalp
One, if symptoms are the result of excessive oil (sebum), a shampoo that regulates the sebaceous glands helps control oil. Oil accumulates and attracts dirt and styling products (hairspray, styling gels, etc.)
Trapped dirt and oil clog follicle pores and may cause inflammation and infection. Though often confused with dandruff, symptoms are inherently benign and can be effectively treated with a clarifying shampoo that targets oil control.
Two, if oil combines with yeast, bacteria and fungus may form. This is most common in dermatitis (seborrhea dermatitis) and, again, can be effectively treated with an anti-fungal shampoo or one specifically formulated for dermatitis.
The key objective of any shampoo for itchy, flaking scalp is to tackle excess oil. This can be accomplished by looking for one of three active ingredients.
- Zinc PCA
- Peppermint or Menthol
- Emu Oil
Zinc PCA is used in many hair products to regulate and slow the production of sebum. Controlling sebum acts to ward off inflammation and flaking by deep cleaning and clarifying the scalp and hair. Effective at removing dirt and product build-up, Zinc PCA is a botanical complex that is gentle on the scalp and helping to heal while removing flakes.
Peppermint and menthol act in very much the same way as Zinc. Menthol is an extract of peppermint (and spearmint) and has the added benefit of increased healing of damaged skin and is aromatic to boot! Often used in shampoos to awaken the senses, there are many therapeutic qualities for reducing itchiness.
Emu Oil has become one of the "miracle oils" for hair and skin care products alike. It penetrates deeply into the scalp and soothes and heals inflammation. It is a natural anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory and has superior moisturizing properties. it is very effective for treating fungus and bacteria and providing soothing relief to dry, itchy scalp.
