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Moisturizing Scalp Oils

A key solution to winter scalp dryness is the use of nourishing oils. These oils help replenish lost moisture while calming inflammation that can cause itchiness. Natural oils such as jojoba, argan, or tea tree are particularly effective at hydrating the scalp and reducing irritation. They can penetrate the scalp to nourish the skin, providing long-lasting hydration.

Try the Moroccanoil Treatment Oil, priced around $44 for 3.4 oz. It offers deep hydration with its blend of argan oil and other nourishing ingredients. This oil is known for its ability to restore moisture and elasticity, making it an excellent option for those battling winter scalp dryness.

Hydrating Scalp Masks

A scalp mask is a great way to address flakes and itching by providing intense hydration. Masks typically contain nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, honey, or coconut oil, which hydrate and soothe the scalp. They also help replenish natural oils that are stripped away by the harsh winter air. Regular use of a hydrating scalp mask can promote balance, leaving your scalp moisturized and less prone to irritation.

Consider the Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Tea Tree Scalp Treatment mask, priced at around $42 for 5 oz. This mask works wonders by detoxifying and hydrating the scalp with activated charcoal, peppermint oil, and tea tree oil.

Gentle Exfoliating Scrubs

Exfoliating the scalp can help remove dead skin cells and build-up that contribute to flakes and itchiness. A scalp scrub should be gentle, as harsh exfoliants can damage the skin. Scrubs containing salt or sugar can slough off dry skin without being too abrasive. Exfoliating once a week helps to prevent clogged hair follicles and promotes better blood circulation, which can encourage healthier hair growth.

The OUAI Scalp & Body Scrub is a great choice, priced around $38 for 8 oz. This scrub contains sugar crystals to exfoliate gently, while the vitamin C and sweet almond oil help hydrate and soften the scalp. Using a scrub helps to reveal a cleaner scalp, which reduces irritation and itching caused by dead skin. Ensure you massage gently to avoid damage and follow up with a moisturizing conditioner.

Scalp-Soothing Shampoos

Shampoos designed for sensitive or dry scalps can help reduce flakes and calm itching. Look for shampoos that are sulfate-free, as sulfates can be harsh and strip moisture from your scalp. Ingredients like chamomile, peppermint, and aloe vera provide natural relief for irritated skin. These ingredients not only soothe but also promote circulation in the scalp, which can lead to better overall scalp health.

The Head & Shoulders Dry Scalp Care Shampoo is an affordable option, priced at about $6 for 13.5 oz. This shampoo is formulated with almond oil and helps restore moisture to dry, itchy scalps while providing relief from flakes. A soothing shampoo helps maintain the balance of your scalp’s natural oils, which is crucial for managing dryness and itchiness. Regular use of a gentle, hydrating shampoo can help keep your scalp moisturized during the colder months.

Apple Cider Vinegar Rinses

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is known for its ability to balance the scalp’s pH levels and reduce itching. ACV has antifungal properties, making it a great option for tackling dandruff and scalp irritation caused by yeast overgrowth. A diluted ACV rinse after shampooing can help remove any remaining residue from hair products while balancing the scalp’s natural oils. It also helps to reduce inflammation and provides relief from itching caused by dryness.

The Bragg Organic Apple Cider Vinegar, priced at $6 for 16 oz, is a high-quality, unfiltered option perfect for scalp care. Mix it with water (1 part ACV to 2 parts water) and use it as a final rinse after shampooing to experience its soothing benefits. Using an ACV rinse once a week can promote a healthier scalp and discourage flakes from forming.

Hydrating Leave-In Conditioners

Leave-in conditioners offer an added layer of moisture that lasts throughout the day. These conditioners are perfect for providing hydration to a dry scalp, especially in winter when the air can be extremely dry. Look for leave-ins that contain nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, glycerin, and keratin. These ingredients help lock in moisture and prevent further dryness, which can lead to itchiness and flakes.

The Ouidad Moisture Lock Leave-In Conditioner is a great option, priced at around $26 for 8 oz. It’s designed to provide hydration while protecting the scalp from environmental stressors, making it an ideal choice for dry, itchy scalps. Applying a leave-in conditioner also protects the scalp from environmental stressors like wind and cold. This simple step can be added to your daily routine to keep your scalp moisturized and comfortable.

Scalp Massages

A scalp massage not only feels relaxing but also helps improve circulation to the scalp, promoting overall scalp health. Increased blood flow helps bring essential nutrients to the hair follicles, encouraging healthy hair growth and reducing flakiness. Use your fingertips to gently massage your scalp in circular motions for about five minutes a day. This activity helps to distribute natural oils throughout the scalp, which can relieve dryness and ease the itching that accompanies it.

For an enhanced massage experience, try the Maxsoft Scalp Massager Shampoo Brush, priced at about $10. This tool is designed to gently massage the scalp while shampooing, stimulating circulation and helping to remove dead skin cells. Scalp massages also help to reduce stress, which can be another contributor to scalp irritation.

Avoiding Hot Showers

While hot showers can be soothing in cold weather, they can also dry out your scalp, worsening flakiness and irritation. Hot water strips away the natural oils on your scalp, leaving it vulnerable to dryness and itching. To prevent this, try washing your hair with lukewarm water instead. Not only will this help protect your scalp’s natural moisture barrier, but it also prevents scalp inflammation that can lead to dandruff.

Consider the Briogeo Be Gentle, Be Kind Shampoo, which is priced around $28 for 8 oz. This gentle, hydrating shampoo works well with lukewarm water, as it helps to preserve moisture and soothe an itchy scalp. A cool rinse at the end of your shower can further help seal the hair cuticle, adding shine and reducing scalp dryness.

DIY Honey and Olive Oil Mask

Honey and olive oil are two ingredients known for their moisturizing properties. Honey is a natural humectant, drawing moisture from the air and locking it into your scalp. Olive oil, rich in antioxidants and vitamins, nourishes the scalp and helps restore lost moisture. To create this mask, simply mix equal parts honey and olive oil and apply it to your scalp. Leave the mask on for 20 minutes before rinsing out with a mild shampoo. This DIY treatment will leave your scalp feeling soothed, moisturized, and flake-free.

For a quick and easy option, Lulu Organics Lavender + Clary Sage Scalp Oil, priced at $29 for 4 oz, can be used to hydrate and nourish the scalp. Its mix of essential oils and olive oil works similarly to a honey and olive oil mask, providing intense hydration.

Hydrating Scalp Serums

Scalp serums are specially formulated to target dryness and itching. They provide a concentrated burst of hydration and are designed to penetrate the scalp deeply. Many scalp serums are infused with ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, which attracts moisture to the skin, and vitamin E, which helps improve skin health.

The Kiehl’s Magic Elixir Scalp + Hair Oil Treatment is priced around $28 for 4.2 oz. This serum provides targeted relief by nourishing both the scalp and hair, leaving your scalp hydrated and healthy without the greasy residue. Scalp serums are lightweight and can be used daily or weekly depending on the severity of your scalp condition. They help maintain a balanced moisture level, preventing flakes and reducing irritation caused by dryness.

Aloe vera is renowned for its soothing and hydrating properties, making it an ideal remedy for an itchy, flaky scalp. It helps to calm irritation while promoting healing thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. For best results, allow the aloe vera gel to sit on the scalp for 20 minutes before washing it out with a gentle shampoo. It can be used a few times a week to restore moisture and relieve discomfort.

You can use the Lily of the Desert Aloe Vera Gel, which costs about $12 for 32 oz. This gel is organic and free of additives, making it a pure, soothing option for scalp care. Aloe vera gel can be applied directly to the scalp to alleviate itching and reduce redness. It also provides a cooling sensation, which is especially welcome during winter when dryness can lead to uncomfortable sensations.

Deep Conditioning Treatments

Deep conditioning treatments are an excellent way to combat dryness and flakiness caused by winter. These treatments work by providing intensive moisture, which helps restore the scalp’s natural balance. Many deep conditioners contain nourishing ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and protein-rich keratin, which work to repair damaged hair and soothe the scalp.

The SheaMoisture Intensive Hydration Hair Masque is priced at around $13 for 12 oz. This deep conditioner contains shea butter, which is rich in vitamins and helps hydrate the scalp, leaving it moisturized and less prone to flakiness. Using a deep conditioning mask once a week can ensure your scalp stays moisturized and free of flakes. Additionally, these masks can reduce the itchiness that often accompanies a dry scalp by providing lasting hydration.

Essential Oil Treatments

Essential oils like lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus offer significant benefits for scalp care. These oils not only hydrate the scalp but also have antimicrobial properties that can prevent the build-up of bacteria or fungi. Lavender oil, for instance, is great for calming irritated skin, while peppermint oil provides a cooling sensation that relieves itching. You can mix a few drops of essential oil with a carrier oil like jojoba or coconut oil and gently massage it into your scalp. This treatment helps to nourish the scalp and promote relaxation, making it an excellent addition to your winter routine.

The Plant Therapy Lavender Essential Oil (priced at about $15 for 10 ml) can be diluted with a carrier oil for soothing scalp massages. It promotes relaxation and helps heal scalp irritations without causing further dryness.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.