How to soothe an itchy scalp – and what causes the problem

 What causes an itchy scalp and how to soothe it

Plagued by an itchy, uncomfortable scalp? Here’s how to treat it

Most of us wouldn’t think twice about splashing out on a pricey anti-ageing cream to improve our complexions, but would we spend the same on scalp care?

The “skinc-hair” trend has seen the rise of deep cleansing and regenerating formulas to get the healthy hair and soothed scalps we all want. But if you’re wondering why your scalp is itchy in the first place – and exactly what products to use to stop it – we have the answers..

What does an unhealthy scalp look like?

You may notice sluggish hair growth, thinning locks, itchiness or flaking skin. “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,” says Simone Thomas, trichologist at Simon Thomas Wellness.

What causes scalp itching specifically?

Being run down and stressed, having thyroid problems or a bad diet, certain medication and environmental changes can all cause an unhealthy scalp. “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 adds. 

What kinds of products should I be using to soothe the itch?

Simone says you’ll benefit hugely from a hair care range that uses higher concentrations of natural scalp-friendly ingredients. These can include coconut oil, which contains a host of hair-stimulating vitamins, and CBD to calm and provide anti-inflammatory action.

“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,” says Simone. 

 

The OK! beauty team recommends Wild Science Lab Head First Scalp Relief Shampoo and Wild Science Lab Head Way Scalp Recovery Conditioner.

The duo has a CBD-rich, calming and nourishing complex to help relieve inflammation and reduce itchiness. A full-size shampoo usually costs £24 and a conditioner £26, but you can get a deluxe travel size of both, PLUS three other brilliant beauty products, from just £7.50, when you buy the latest OK! Beauty Box.

The whole box is worth over £80, but new subscribers can get 50% off the usual monthly price of £15 by using the code 50FIRSTBOX at the checkout.