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A flaky scalp can be embarrassing and can affect one’s self-esteem. Not only does dry dandruff appear as flakes in the hair and on the shoulders, forehead, and brows, it also leads to dull, dry hair. Hair fall is also common with a flaky scalp.

What Causes a Flaky Scalp?

Like all cells in our body, skin cells die as well, forming dead skin that is shed. When there is an increase in the shedding of dead skin cells on our scalp, it becomes noticeable, leading to dandruff and other hair problems. A flaky scalp can result in dandruff when the cells cluster together and stick to the scalp, making it itchy. This condition can cause the scalp to become even drier and lead to thinning of hair.

• The common causes for a flaky scalp are either hereditary or are a reflection of a poor diet or an underlying illnesses.
• Dehydration is also a factor that can result in a flaky scalp. Water is very essential to keep the body hydrated and flush out toxins. The lack of water leads to a dry flaky scalp and dry skin.
• Other causes for a flaky scalp include excessive use of hair care products. Frequent use of shampoos and other hair styling products dry the scalp and make it flaky. Shampooing too often robs the scalp of natural oils leaving it in want of nourishment and hydration.
• A flaky scalp can also be the result of improper washing of shampoo from the scalp. The left over shampoo forms a flaky residue on the scalp.
• Use of hair drying products like hair dryers and other styling gadgets like curling or straightening irons, which use excessive heat, can make the scalp dry and flaky.
• Use of hot water for showers can also deprive the scalp of moisture.

Home Remedies

Home remedies for a flaky scalp are many, and use of these natural flaky scalps cures can help restore the health of the scalp and hair and prevent further damage. Some of the common home remedies for a dry, flaky scalp are as follows.

• To begin with, massaging the scalp with oil helps to remove the flakes from the scalp. Coconut and olive are the best oils for a dry scalp. Apply generous portion of warm olive or coconut oil on the scalp and gently massage in circular motion. Once you feel that the scalp is completely coated with the oil, allow it to soak for an hour and then wash with a good shampoo.
• You can condition the hair with two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar in a mug of water for the final rinse.
• You can also use a generous dose of oil with lemon juice to loosen the flakes and clean the scalp. In case you find the citrus acid of the lemon too strong, add one teaspoon of yoghurt to the mix and massage the scalp. You can massage the scalp twice a week or more, depending on the severity of the condition.
• Olive oil and lemon juice can be used every day if the lemon juice does not irritate the scalp. Lemon juice can also be mixed in warm water and used on the scalp for a quick rinse.
• Baking soda can be mixed in little water and applied on the scalp to remove flakes. Shampoo the hair after rinsing with the baking soda.
• Tea tree oil an excellent antiseptic can be blended with coconut or olive oil to massage the scalp and treat a flaky scalp.
• Dry a few lemon and orange peels in the shade for ten days. Powder the dried peels and add dried rose petals and boil them together in coconut oil. This oil can be used regularly for massaging the scalp and is very effective in keeping dry flakes at bay.
• Buttermilk blended with lemon juice and powdered fenugreek seeds is a very good flaky scalp cure. The ingredients help nourish the scalp and condition the hair.
• If there is considerable flaking, blend yoghurt and one medium onion and apply it on the scalp. The yogurt will reduce the sting, and the antiseptic properties in onions will clear the stubborn flakes.
• Aloe vera gel can be blended with lemon juice and apple cider vinegar to treat a flaky scalp. Aloe vera hydrates the scalp and the lemon and apple cider vinegar cleanses the scalp.

Prevention and Tips

• Avoid scratching the scalp as it can turn sore and at time bleed, leading to infection.
• Use good herbal and organic shampoos.
• Use a hat to cover the head as too much sunlight can make the scalp dry.
• Always comb your hair with your fingers to detangle it and allow it to dry naturally.
• Make a conscious choice to eat more of vegetables, fruits and nuts; meat and fish that offer wholesome nutrition and keep you healthy.
• Exercise regularly to flush out toxins and improve circulation.

Reference

1. http://www.bbc.co.uk/health/physical_health/conditions/flakyscalp1.shtml