Working a desk job can be hard on the scalp. Aside from the lack of Vitamin D (due to being indoors all day), being exposed to airconditioning for long periods of time can definitely do some damage. According to Healthline, cold, dry air can be a cause for your scalp to dry out.
Some mistake having a dry scalp for dandruff, leading them to the wrong remedies. Before you conclude if you have either dandruff or dry scalp, refer to this diagram:
I’ve had dry scalp because, aside from being exposed to cold air, it may have been the many harmful hair products I’ve been using.
If you’re currently experiencing dry scalp, here are some tips you could try that will help you remedy it:
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!
I’m sure your mom has already nagged you as much as mine did, but it would really help if you drink water. Eight glasses a day, to be more specific. Even influencers like Mimiyuuuh swear by it. It’s a great way to bring back the moisture to your scalp from the inside.
Use Elica lotion
Part of having a dry scalp is having some parts around it dry out as well. In my case, my nape was also drying out and was really itchy. Since I have skin asthma, I’ve always had a bottle of Elica ready for rashes that would randomly appear.
I’m saying this now: It doesn’t have the same consistency as regular lotions. It’s actually quite watery. After applying it on the affected area, it’s going to relieve your skin of the itch and will probably go back to normal in a day.
Don’t wash your hair everyday
This is something I had a hard time doing since I was accustomed to washing my hair everyday. Medical News Today tells us that washing your hair less often helps “preserve the natural oils in the scalp and keep hair well moisturized.”
When you do wash your hair, try the Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo
I came across this during one of my grocery runs, and I must say it does its job quite well. Although it’s advertised as an anti-dandruff shampoo, I tried it because the packaging says it helps with the itching. Prior to this, I also tried other anti-dandruff shampoos (since they’re also supposed to help relieve itchiness) but this was the most effective.
However, it can be drying like most shampoos. After using this product, make sure to apply some conditioner so your scalp won’t be drier than it already is.
Art by Tricia Guevara
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