If you’re experiencing dry scalp watch your washing habits. Washing hair too frequently can make your scalp dry. This article will help you identify and fix the prominent causes of a dry scalp after washing your hair.
If the problem is left unresolved, a dry scalp can be the foundation for multiple hair disorders, including dandruff and hair loss. Read on to learn how to properly care for your scalp.
Why Do I Have a Dry Scalp After Washing Hair?
A dry scalp after washing hair can result from various factors, such as using harsh shampoos, hot water, or over-washing as these strip the scalp’s natural oils. Additionally, scalp sensitivity or skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis may contribute to dryness. To remedy this, use gentle, sulfate-free shampoos and lukewarm water.
Your scalp can be dry after washing your hair for various reasons. Below are 6 common causes:
#1. Washing Frequently
Keeping yourself neat and clean is a great habit. But did you know excessive washing can negatively affect your scalp? Frequent hair washing is a major contributing factor to scalp dryness.
Overwashing can vary for different individuals, but generally, washing your hair more than 3-4 times a week can be considered over-washing. you should find the right balance for your hair type and scalp needs, as some people may require more or less frequent washing.
Frequent water exposure pulls out the moisture and natural oils from your scalp, resulting in a dry scalp, which can lead to itchiness, dandruff, and hair breakage.
Hygral fatigue is another phenomenon responsible for hair dryness. Repeated washing leads to swelling up of the hair follicle, followed by unswelling.
Hygral fatigue typically results from the loss of protective oils and over-moisturization of the hair, causing hair brittleness and dullness and drying out the scalp.
#2. Washing With Hot Water
Washing your hair less frequently does not just cut it when combating a dry scalp. While a hot shower can be relaxing, it is vital to realize that hot water can strip your scalp of its essential oils and dehydrate it.
That ultimately causes it to become dry, fuzzy, and brittle, making it vulnerable to breakage and thinning.
#3. Using Sulfate Shampoos
Sulfate shampoos effectively cleanse your hair by eliminating dirt and product buildup. However, shampoos containing sulfates are notorious for damaging your hair and scalp.
A study reveals that sulfates such as sodium lauryl sulfate are hazardous to the skin and can cause significant scalp dryness after wash.
Exposing your head to hair products containing high amounts of sulfates will strip the hair of natural oils, leaving it dry, brittle, and irritated.
#4. Applying Harsh Conditioners
Like shampoos, bad conditioners can also cause scalp dryness. Many people habitually use a conditioner for adequate hair moisturization. But it is crucial to select the right hair care product. Parabens and sulfates in conditioners can trigger scalp dryness.
#5. Blow Drying After Wash
You can experience scalp dryness if you blow dry the hair after washing it as it dries out the moisture from your hair cuticle. That is especially true when you use a dryer too close to your scalp, as it strips off the sebum that protects and keeps it moisturized.
Individuals with dry skin are prone to developing scalp dryness. Exposure to high artificial heat paired with a propensity to skin dryness can cause havoc in your scalp moisturization.
#6. Washing With Chlorinated or Salty Water
Taking pool and sea baths refreshes the soul, but too much swimming can drastically affect the skin.
According to a study, chlorinated water from pools causes evident scalp dryness. This effect is associated with skin flaking and an increased propensity to develop dandruff.
Similarly, swimming in the sea can harm the skin. The osmotic sea water attracts all the water from your scalp leading to dryness and flakiness.
How Do I Get Rid of Dry Scalp After a Hair Wash?
Getting rid of a dry scalp requires changing your hair-washing habits and adopting other precautionary measures.
- Reduce Hair Wash Frequency– The first step in reducing and preventing scalp dryness is minimizing hair-washing frequency. To keep your scalp and hair hydrated, wash your hair only 2-3 times a week. That locks the moisture in the scalp and keeps dryness at bay.
- Don’t Use Sulfate-Based Hair Products- You can easily find paraben and sulfate-free hair products on the market. To ensure optimal scalp health, consciously read the contents of the shampoo and conditioner. Avoid any product that contains sulfates like sodium lauryl sulfate.
- Use Plant Oils- Natural remedies like plant-based oils have been shown to reverse the effects of scalp dryness. Jojoba oil benefits the skin and helps treat dry scalp. It also aids in treating scalp disorders like dermatitis and dandruff. Virgin coconut oil moisturizes and reverses dry scalp. Like jojoba oil, it also treats dry hair conditions.
- Apply Hair Serums– Hair serums are designed to add moisture to the hair. Applying a good quality serum to the hair after washing can coat the hair cuticle with a layer that prevents moisture loss. The moisturized scalp resists dryness well. Studies show hair serums reduce scalp dryness and itching.
- Use a Leave-In Conditioner- A leave-in conditioner is effective in eliminating frizz and dryness. It stays on the hair surface and prevents dryness after washing by providing moisture to the scalp.
- Dry With Cool Air- Blow drying with low temperatures instead of high heat protects your hair from damage, including dry and brittle hair.
Seemingly healthy hair care routines can strip natural oils and sebum from the scalp. You can prevent scalp dryness by applying these tips and tricks.
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