How to Remedy a Dry, Flaky Scalp

There is nothing worse than an itchy, flaky, dry scalp. No one likes a scalp that can "snow" (think white dandruff falling from your head to your shoulders). And throwing away all your black sweaters and shirts is not the solution to this blizzard of a problem.

Remedying a dry scalp can be a difficult task, but there are several easy solutions. If you've been battling against your flaky scalp for some time, it's time to try something new.

Oil Massage

While massaging oil into one's scalp may sound odd to many people, it is actually a great solution to a flaky, dry scalp (and on top of that -- nothing beats a head massage). Many natural food stores supply body oil, and this is all you need. A good oil to remedy a flaky scalp will contain mild oils, such as safflower, sunflower or jojoba oil. Stay away from the heavier oils like olive, almond and avocado, as those may leave your hair feeling greasy. Many body oils come with essential oils, so pick a scent that suits you (peppermint can be great for soothing scalp itch). While in the shower, before shampooing your hair, rub about a tablespoon of oil into your scalp. As you do this, really work the oil into your scalp slowly but firmly. Wait for several minutes before shampooing.

Avoid Hair Products

Mousse, jell, foam, spray, leave-in conditioner, wax, pomade -- all of these hair products can be the cause of itchy scalp (albeit with good intentions). In the end, hair products simply add more gunk to the hair and scalp, often causing the scalp to itch or flake. Some of these products can also make thinning hair look even thinner. Try to avoid these hair add-ons as much as possible, styling your hair in a natural way. When you do decide to indulge in the occasional use of styling products, wash your hair as soon as possible afterward to remove the residue.

Dandruff Shampoo

Dandruff shampoo is often the best remedy to dry, flaky scalp. If you've eliminated styling products from your morning ritual and have tried using light oil, all to no avail, dandruff shampoo with zinc pyrithione (ZPT) as the active ingredient, such as Head & Shoulders, is probably your best bet. Using dandruff shampoo consistently for several weeks should do the trick in getting rid of flaky scalp for good.