Saturday, March 19, 2011

Home Remedies for Scalp Problems

Home remedies for scalp problems may relieve uncomfortable, and sometimes embarrassing, scalp conditions. These types of natural scalp care methods must be used on a regular basis for at least a few weeks before improvements are noticed.

  1. Treat from the Outside

    • To treat dry and itchy scalp conditions, use a weekly deep-conditioning home scalp treatment. These treatments should be applied for at least 30 minutes before rinsing; it is also helpful to cover the hair with a shower cap while the treatments are soaking on the scalp. Use either plain mashed avocado or a mixture of oils to moisturize your scalp; oil mixtures may include 1 tsp. of base oil (almond, coconut or jojoba oil) combined with 2 to 3 drops of lavender, rosemary or tea tree oil.

      Note: Never use undiluted essential oils on the skin and always test a small amount of diluted essential oil on your skin before you use it on a larger area.

      Scalps which are too oily or too dry may also benefit from a "no shampoo" regimen. The use of shampoo can strip away natural oils in the hair which causes the skin to produce even more oils; the result may be oily scalp or dry scalp caused by the use of too much shampoo. No shampoo regimens involve the use of apple cider vinegar rinses and baking/soda water mixtures to clean and condition the hair and scalp instead.

      Scalp psoriasis symptoms may be calmed through the use of apple cider vinegar rinses and increased exposure to the sun. Sun exposure on the scalp should take place at least twice a day for no longer than 10 to 15 minutes; persons should take care not to burn their scalp when they are trying this form of treatment.

    Treat from the Inside

    • Natural scalp care should involve a holistic approach which treats scalp problems from the inside and the outside. Diets rich in beneficial oils (like olive oil) and omega-3 fatty acids can help to improve the health of the skin. Those suffering from dry and flaky scalps should also monitor their daily intake of water and ensure that they are staying hydrated throughout the day.

      Diets which include a lot of processed foods and refined sugars may contribute to skin and scalp issues. If you are suffering from any scalp conditions, take a close look at your diet.

    Massage the Scalp

    • Home scalp treatment should include a daily massage of the scalp. Massage helps to increase blood flow, release tension, and distribute oils around the scalp. A quick 2-minute massage at least twice a day may help to improve scalp problems.

    When to Talk with Your Doctor

    • Scalp problems may sometimes be an indication of an underlying health condition, such as ringworm, abnormal thyroid function or autoimmune disorders. Allergic reactions to foods or ingredients in hair products may also cause scalp problems.

      You should speak with your physician if your scalp problem is causing pain, severe irritation, sores or open wounds on your scalp. Conditions of the scalp that don't respond to home remedies, or that become worse with time, should also be examined by a physician.

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