Itchy, flaky scalp? Here are the best 6 treatments to soothe it

Dr Barbara Sturm’s hyaluronic acid (HA) for the face is already a global bestseller and now she has taken the same idea to the scalp to boost and retain hydration levels. This serum combines super-hydrating HA with purslane, an ingredient that quickly reduces irritation. Use the pipette to apply it directly to your scalp every night if it has a tendency to become dry and irritated.

Dirt, perspiration, sebum and a build-up of styling products – particularly dry shampoo – can cause stress on your skin, resulting in inflammation, tightness and sensitivity. Washing your hair often will help but, in order to keep your scalp balanced and as clean as possible, you should use a gentle detoxifying scrub like this one once or twice a week. The fine grains help to remove embedded product build-up, while calming ingredients like bisabolol (an oil found in chamomile) help to take the heat out of angry skin.

If you suffer from tension headaches and migraines, you will be familiar with the almost-instant relief that comes with a scalp massage. This clever tool made from cooling jade is ideal for applying soothing pressure to areas of your scalp that are feeling tight with tension. The comb-like design makes it really easy to use and it has the additional benefit of boosting blood circulation to the follicles to support healthy hair growth.

The condition of your hair and the health of your scalp are first and foremost influenced by what is going on internally. A balanced diet, including plenty of vibrantly colored vegetables, is non-negotiable if you want a healthy scalp and beautiful hair. But you can also boost your diet with this daily supplement. It helps to maintain the optimum level of keratin (the main component of hair follicles), while delivering B3, B5, B6 and biotin to improve the appearance of your hair.

A tight and dehydrated scalp can be almost impossible to ignore. Massaging it weekly with a nourishing oil, such as this one from Virtue, helps to restore hydration – which, in turn, reduces that uncomfortable tight and itchy feeling many of us experience. This oil is a favorite because it uses the antioxidant vitamin E to protect the hair and scalp. Massage a few drops into your scalp while your hair is dry and leave it for 20 minutes or so before shampooing out.

It’s not uncommon for hair to become thinner and sparser after periods of sickness or post-pregnancy, or even if you have deficiencies in your diet. Just as you incorporate a serum into your face-care regimen this should be applied to your scalp every other day as part of your hair’s recovery program. It contains proteins, vitamins and minerals that have been shown to improve hair density and health, while slowing hair loss.

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