From stress to product buildup, experts reveal what causes an itchy, flaky scalp and the best products to help soothe it
Many of us happily fork out for expensive anti-ageing creams to enhance our skin, but how many would invest similar amounts in scalp care? The emerging “skinc-hair” movement has sparked demand for intensive cleansing and restorative treatments designed to achieve the lustrous hair and calm scalps we’re all after. But if you’re questioning why your scalp is itchy in the first place – and which products actually work to relieve it – here’s what you need to know….
How can you tell if your scalp is unhealthy?
Signs include slower hair growth, hair becoming thinner, persistent itchiness, or visible flaking. “But what usually happens is people leave it until they notice their hair is really thin or they have bad dandruff, and THEN they go seek out help for the problem, instead of proactively looking after their scalps in the first place,” explains Simone Thomas, trichologist at Simone Thomas Wellness.
What triggers an itchy scalp?
Factors including feeling worn out and anxious, thyroid disorders, poor nutrition, certain medications, and environmental shifts (like temperature fluctuations) can all contribute to scalp problems. “Also cheap, silicone-heavy products that cause an excessive build-up of product and block hair follicles can be to blame for itchiness and sluggish hair growth,” Simone notes.
Which products are best for calming an irritated scalp?
Simone suggests you’ll reap substantial benefits from a haircare range that utilises higher concentrations of natural scalp-friendly ingredients. These can include coconut oil, packed with hair-stimulating vitamins, and CBD to soothe and provide anti-inflammatory properties.
“Like you cleanse, tone, moisturise and treat the skin on your face, you should do the same for your scalp. That involves washing with a good shampoo, hydrating with a nourishing conditioner, and giving yourself regular massages to get the blood flow going,” she explains.
Shop our selection of scalp-friendly beauty buys
The INKEY List Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Scalp Scrub
Shop it for £14
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This mild glycolic formula pledges to help shed dead skin cells and product residue that can lead to itching. Use the tube-shaped applicator to apply over your scalp, then indulge in a quick massage before rinsing out and shampooing as usual.
Cantu Thick Boar Paddle Brush
Shop it for £8
The bristles on this brush are designed to reach the scalp and aid in stimulating circulation. As improved circulation equates to healthier hair growth, you’ll notice the benefits of using this brush over time.
Philip Kingsley Flaky/Itchy Scalp Anti-Dandruff Toner
Shop it for £11.50
Melissa Timperley, a hairdresser who owns the award-winning Melissa Timperley salon in Manchester, recommends this for all types of itchy scalp, not just dandruff. It contains antimicrobial ingredients to effectively address dry scalp issues without stripping the hair.
Nizoral Scalp Soothing Itchy & Sensitive Shampoo
Shop it for £8.75
This gentle scalp shampoo helps calm irritation and reduce itchiness with soothing ingredients like aloe vera and lactic acid, leaving your hair soft and comfortable without stripping it.
