Soothing an Itchy Scalp

Why does scalp itchiness increase in autumn/winter?

Itching is often a reaction to skin irritation. Many different factors can irritate the scalp in autumn/winter.

• Dry indoor air

Indoor heating peeks as the mercury drops which leads to an itchy scalp. The dry indoor air dehydrates the scalp and excessive scratching damages the surface thereof which in turn intensifies the itchiness. The more it itches the more one feels the need to scratch the itch - a vicious circle.

• Woollen hats

When wearing a warm woollen hat over your head, you inadvertently create the ideal conditions for even more itchiness. The microorganisms on the scalp that are responsible for dandruff thrive in warm and moist conditions - wearing warm hats thus creates the perfect microclimate for the formation of dandruff.

• Hairdryers and hot showers

Both heat styling and hot water can damage the scalp. In autumn/winter people tend to opt to take hot showers and use hairdryers more frequently. It's best to take warm showers - preferably just above body temperature - and hairdryers at lower settings instead. This prevents scalp irritation and dryness which results in minimising itchiness. Protect the hair with adequate hair care products in the colder months of the year.

• Which factors result in an itchy scalp?

Itching is usually caused by a dry and stressed scalp: Washing the hair too often in combination with using the wrong shampoo not only favours a dry and itchy scalp but also dandruff formation.

• What helps against a dry scalp?

The best way to care for a dry scalp is with mild products that do not irritate the sensitive skin and restore its oil and moisture content. The antiseptic effect of lemon is particularly effective against itchy scalp types prone to dandruff. Massage the product with the lemon-infused ingredient onto the scalp and leave it on for 5 minutes. If the itchy scalp is not prone to dandruff, it is advised to use the lemon-infused product in a diluted state.

Find even more suitable products for dry scalp here: