It can happen because: Your scalp is overworked due to changes in weather, over-styling or even simple genetics, which may make it itchy and flaky. In response, your sebaceous glands could be pumping out too much sebum to try and 'fix' the problem – cue oily hair and roots that are still dry and dehydrated.
The major culprit behind a dry scalp and oily hair is usually sebum overproduction, which is affected by factors such as: Overwashing that disrupts your scalp's natural moisture balance. Harsh shampoo formulations that are too drying for your scalp.
Making simple adjustments such as finding a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, washing less frequently, using less heat and applying nourishing oils and dry shampoo on the scalp are all effective to help you care for an oily scalp and dry ends.
Causes of dry scalp
An allergic reaction to certain products might cause your scalp to dry out and lose its protective layer. Extreme weather changes can also disrupt your oil production, with cold weather being the commonly observed reason.
Jojoba Oil or Argan Oil: These oils are great for moisturizing and balancing the scalp without clogging pores. Apply a few drops directly to your scalp and massage it in. You can leave it on without washing if it's a small amount, or rinse it out if needed.
For oily hair, clarifying shampoos used once a week can help eliminate excess oil and product buildup. For a dry scalp, occasionally using a moisturising shampoo can provide relief. Scalp Treatments: Regularly massage your scalp with light oils like jojoba or argan oil.
'Red scalp syndrome" is a condition which occurs in individuals who have persistent scalp redness that is not explainable by any other condition. The condition was first described by Drs Thestrup and Hjorth Patients with the Red Scalp Syndrome may have itching and burning but typically do not have scaling or flaking.
Does hair loss from a dry scalp grow back? Once your scalp problems are properly treated and your dry scalp is regularly moisturised and provided with a proper care regimen, the hair loss may resolve itself and your locks could look happy and healthy once more.
Dehydrated hair is lacking in water within the hair shaft itself, whereas dry hair is hair that can't retain its moisture levels often due to external aggressors such as exposure to sun, extreme heat, excessive styling, and chemical treatments (check out our blog on Damage-Free Summer Hair to learn more about how you ...
So, if you are still wondering how often you should wash oily hair, a good rule to follow is between 2 to 3 times a week. This way, you can enjoy a clean feel without stripping essential moisture and exposing your strands to too many chemical elements.
People who colour or bleach their hair tend to develop an oily scalp and dry ends since colour treatments like bleach are known to strip your locks of the natural oils that keep them soft and nourished. An oily scalp tends to be itchy and can cause your hair to appear dull, lifeless, slick, and stringy.
An unhealthy scalp can show up as skin concerns on the scalp or issues with your hair. "An unhealthy scalp shows hair loss, hair breakage, dandruff, redness, pain, acne, and cysts," says Ayesh.
Not only does your scalp have a plethora of sweat glands, but it also has an abundance of sebaceous (oil) glands, which produce oily sebum. Have you ever scratched your scalp and noticed white, waxy buildup under your nails? That's sebum mixed with dead skin cells.
It can happen because: Your scalp is overworked due to changes in weather, over-styling or even simple genetics, which may make it itchy and flaky. In response, your sebaceous glands could be pumping out too much sebum to try and 'fix' the problem – cue oily hair and roots that are still dry and dehydrated.
Many ingredients can hydrate your scalp, including the most common hair-healthy ingredients: argan oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil, and aloe vera. At-home ingredients like apple cider vinegar and tea tree oil can also help reduce inflammation and revitalize your scalp.
Combination scalp
In this type, there are dry and oily areas spread across the scalp. It's easy to identify a combination scalp from the dull wiry texture of the hair, which occurs because of the overactive sebaceous glands and poor scalp condition.
To help solve dry scalp flaking, you need to make sure you're drinking enough water. Eight glasses a day is the recommended amount – once you've hit your goal for long enough, you may find that your scalp will recover, helping your hair to become healthier.
“Look for products with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or aloe vera, which hydrate without leaving a greasy residue,” says Garshick. “Use a lightweight conditioner and avoid heavy oils or creams. A leave-in conditioner spray or a volumizing conditioner can also help add moisture without making hair flat.”