14 Best Itchy Scalp Home Remedies (And 4 Ways to Prevent It)

Are you wondering how to eliminate dandruff and itchy scalp in a single wash? Scalp pruritus, is a common condition which causes itchy scalp. It could result from dandruff or from skin inflammation. In most cases, dandruff and inflammation on the scalp is a result of chronic stress, season changes, hormones or yeast infection. 

Irrespective of an oily or dry scalp type, you could suffer scalp irritation and itchiness. Is there a cure? Ayurveda suggests curing itchy scalp with the best remedies using natural ingredients.

14 Most Effective and Natural Itchy Scalp Home Remedies

Let’s discuss some of the home remedies that help maintain healthy hair. The home remedies mentioned below will help you get rid of dandruff and itchy scalp. Simultaneously, they will also help you attain strong, shiny hair that boosts your self-confidence.

1. Coconut Oil

The scalp gets itchy when it is very dry, so you should try moisturizing it with hair nourishing oils like Coconut Oil. Studies have shown that Coconut oil is stacked with properties that can assist in calming irritation and getting rid of the hidden contaminants. The oil's antifungal properties assist with getting the scalp free from fungal infections that cause itchiness.

It further hydrates the skin and prevents dryness, the primary source of itchy dandruff. Numerous researchers have demonstrated that Coconut Oil treats eczema, a skin condition that gives high tingling sensation, dryness, and rashes. 

Therefore, massaging your hair and scalp with a liberal measure of Coconut oil regularly for two months can give impeccable, smooth skin, eliminate dandruff, calm down scalp itchiness, and aid hair growth.

How to apply 

You need to take about two tablespoons of coconut oil in a bowl and warm it indirectly. It should be warm to the touch but should not burn your skin. Now,  apply it all over your scalp. 

After you’ve applied the oil, massage it with your fingertips for at least five minutes for it to get absorbed. Moreover, if you desire, you can leave it on overnight and wash it off the following day with a hair cleanser and lukewarm water.

Frequency to use

For best results, try using Coconut oil twice or thrice a week. 

Read - Why Is Virgin Coconut Oil So Good For Your Hair and Skin?

2. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple Cider Vinegar is truly an all-rounder for solving your hair problems. This magic ingredient can solve hair issues like dandruff, itchy scalp, and a lot more. Plus, it is extremely helpful in boosting hair growth and leaving you with nourished, healthy hair. 

Apple Cider Vinegar contains acetic acid, which helps restore shine. Some dermatologists believe that it has some antimicrobial properties that effectively treat itchy scalp and fight fungi responsible for several scalp infections.

How to apply

Mix apple cider vinegar with water in 1/4th proportion and pour it all over your scalp after you’ve finished shampoo and conditioning. Leave it for a couple of minutes, and then rinse off with water. You can also add some essential oils to this mixture if you don’t like your hair smelling vinegary.

Frequency to use

You can begin with this treatment by doing it twice a week and then cut it down to once a week as soon as you start seeing some differences.

3. Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil is the essence of Peppermint extracted into the oil. It works wonders for soothing itchy and inflamed skin. Peppermint inherits a compound called menthol, which gives its smell and cooling sensation. 

In addition, Peppermint is an antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and vasodilating ingredient that can resolve different types of hair issues like itchy scalp, dryness, and other scalp problems to promote hair growth. Further, it helps kill the microbes that cause scalp infection.

How to apply

Mix half a teaspoon of Peppermint oil with one and a half teaspoons of any of your desired carrier oil. After that, apply this mixture with a cotton ball all over your scalp. Leave it on for an hour, and then rinse it off with a mild shampoo and lukewarm water. Some of the carrier oils that you can opt for are Coconut oil, Castor oil, or Olive oil.

Frequency to use

Use this treatment twice a week for a non-itchy scalp and leave your hair healthy and pleasantly fragrant.

4. Tea Tree Oil

Tea Tree oil is an excellent remedy for keeping your scalp irritation-free. It has been used for hundreds of years and keeps your scalp healthy. Its antimicrobial properties make it a great natural cleansing agent. Further studies have shown that Tea Tree oil effectively fights viruses, fungi, and bacteria. Moreover, Tea Tree oil can moisturize your scalp and pave the way to support hair growth.

How to apply

Take a few drops of Tea tree oil with a suitable carrier oil. Apply it to your scalp with the help of a cotton ball. You can leave it overnight and wash it off the following day for better results. But try to keep it for at least 2 hours before washing.

Frequency to use

For speedy results, try this treatment twice a week. Once you notice some differences, bring down the frequency to once a week.

Read - 16 Incredible Uses of Peppermint Oil For Health & Wellness

5. Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is a popular succulent that grows in a sunny climate and contains a gel in its fleshy leaves. Research has shown that this gel can be used as a natural remedy for relieving itchy scalp and curing minor wounds and cuts. Aloe vera is also helpful to combat dandruff and promote healthier hair. Its inherent enzyme and fatty acid content might help in curing skin inflammation. It also has a moisturizing effect that nourishes your hair.

How to apply

Extract the gel from an Aloe vera leaf, and take it in a bowl. Apply this gel on your scalp with your fingertips and allow it to cool your scalp for at least 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse it off with cold or lukewarm water. Aloe Vera gel is not greasy and gets washed off easily.

Frequency to use

This treatment is relatively easy to follow. You can do it once or twice every week to see noticeable results.

6. Mashed Bananas

Bananas are high in vitamin B6, vitamin C, magnesium, and potassium. But, the benefits of bananas are not just confined to this. According to some research, they are also used for beauty treatments and are great for your scalp and hair. They improve the shine and manageability of your hair and keep your scalp moisturized. Several banana hair products are available in the market, but why spend much if you can make your banana mask at home. 

How to apply

Take a bowl and mash two bananas in it. Now, add some Coconut oil and some Coconut milk and mix all the ingredients well. After that, part your hair and apply the mask from the roots of your hair to the tips. Leave it for 30 minutes, and then wash off with shampoo and water.

Frequency to use

Applying the banana hair mask twice a week can relieve your itchy scalp and improve your hair texture.

7. Yogurt and Egg

Yogurt and Egg masks are among the surviving traditional haircare rituals. Both the ingredients are rich in protein and naturally uplift your hair by nourishing them. They keep away all hair-related problems and help to fight against the itchy scalp. The best part is that these ingredients are readily available.

How to apply 

Beat one egg and mix 3-4 tbsp of curd along with lemon juice. Now gently apply this mask all over your scalp with the help of a brush and leave it for an hour. Now, rinse off the mask by using hair shampoo and water.

Frequency to use

Apply this mask twice a week for better nourishment and conditioning.

8. Jojoba Oil

The all-natural Jojoba oil conditions your hair strands and soothes dry patches. Like other skin care oils, Jojoba oil contains antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and oodles of vitamins that are excellent for your scalp. According to a dermatologist review, it nourishes all hair types and is safe to use. Further, it helps maintain your scalp’s natural balance without leaving it overly greasy.

How to apply

Take 2 tbsp of Jojoba oil and heat it. Then, apply it all over your hair from roots to the tips and leave for 20 minutes. After that, wash it off with shampoo and water.

Frequency to use

You can do this treatment twice a week and let it heal your scalp.

9. Avocados

Avocados are nutrient boosters loaded with potassium and amino acids. It is helpful in deep conditioning your hair and boosting its shine. Furthermore, a 2015 study shows that Avocados are a great source of biotin, and adding it to your diet can help grow healthy hair. Avocado masks are supposedly the best thing you can do to your hair and are known to work like magic. It is rich in vitamins and amino acids that have numerous benefits.

How to apply

Take one ripe Avocado, 2 tbsp of Honey, and 2 tbsp of Olive oil. Put all the ingredients together into a mixer and beat it well. After that, apply this mask to damp hair with bare hands and leave it for 30 minutes. Wash it off with shampoo and water.

Frequency to use

You can use this hair mask twice a week to improve hair quality and cure itchy scalp.

10. Baking Soda

Baking soda is a vital ingredient in today’s kitchen. It serves many beneficial purposes, from cleaning everything in our house to raising bread dough. However, it is also a miraculous ingredient for treating several scalp problems. A 2013 lab study shows that it has some antifungal and antibacterial properties that help treat scalp infections. Further, it is also helpful in balancing the pH level of the scalp. 

 How to apply

Take 2 tbsp of baking soda and add some water little by little to make a thick paste. Now, apply this paste to your scalp. You can use your fingertips or a brush, whatever suits you. Then, leave it on for 15 minutes. After that, wash it off with a mild shampoo and lukewarm water.

Frequency to use

Try this home remedy once a week for three weeks, and then if required, repeat the process.

11. Lemon Juice

The potential use of Lemon is far beyond just flavoring water and culinary dishes. This famous citrus fruit is an excellent source of vitamin C, which boosts your immune system and also helps in reducing inflammation. When applied in a liquid form, lemon is the most beneficial ingredient for your hair. It helps in curing itchy scalp and bringing shine to your hair.

How to apply

Take two fresh lemons and wash them well. Then, pat them dry with a clean cloth and cut and juice them. Now, you can apply this fresh lemon juice to your scalp with the help of a cotton ball. Leave it on for 10 minutes, and then rinse it away with a mild shampoo and cold water.

Frequency to use

You can use this home remedy once a week and notice results in four to six weeks.  

12. Lemongrass Oil

Lemongrass oil is among the most used essential oils that have been a part of the hair care routine of many people. It is derived from Lemongrass, a tall grass that grows in the regions of Asia, Africa, and Australia. The Lemongrass oil has a strong lingering aroma that can be overpowering if not diluted with other oils. 

One of the best things about Lemongrass essential oil for hair is its antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidants. A 2015 study found that it significantly reduced dandruff after one week. Including lemongrass essential oil in your daily regime can help you deal with several hair-related problems.

How to apply

Take one cup of coconut oil and mix it up with 2-3 drops of lemongrass oil. Apply this mixture all over your scalp and leave it overnight. Wash off your hair next morning with shampoo and water. 

Frequency to use

Do this remedy every night before going to bed and repeat the process for better results.

Read - 12 Beauty and Health Benefits Of Lemongrass Essential Oil

13. Argan Oil

Argan oil, also known as liquid gold, is a product made from fresh kernels of the argan tree's fruit in Morocco. It has been used for centuries as a home remedy for treating hair and scalp problems. Argan oil contains powerful antioxidants and fatty acids such as vitamin E, which improve hair quality. It is also helpful in moisturizing the scalp and prevents itchiness. 

How to apply

Find yourself the purest variety of Argan oil and use it directly from the bottle. After that, gently massage this argan oil on your scalp for a few minutes to ensure that it is absorbed totally. Leave it on overnight, and wash it off in the morning with a mild shampoo and lukewarm water.

Frequency to use

Make use of this oil once a week to observe remarkable results.

14. Onion Juice

Onion juice is a proven home remedy to combat a wide variety of hair issues, of which the itchy scalp is the most prominent. Although it has a strong smell, studies have found that Onion's antibacterial and antimicrobial properties can work wonders to treat dry and weak hair. It is also effective in preventing dandruff, a major cause of itchy scalp.

How to apply

First, take a fresh juicy onion and try not to take the one that looks dry. Now, peel and grate the Onion, and squeeze out its juice. If you don’t mind the pulp with onion bits on your hair, then don’t squeeze; use this pulp. Apply the juice or pulp on your scalp using a cotton ball. Leave it on for 20 minutes, and then rinse it off with a mild shampoo and lukewarm water.

Frequency to use

Follow this home remedy once a week to get rid of itchy scalp.

What Causes an Itchy Scalp?

Dandruff is the most common cause of itchy scalp, which is further aggravated due to some seasonal changes, hormonal fluctuations, or stress. Some other causes of itchy scalp include diabetes, allergic reactions to medications, anxiety disorder, head lice, ringworm, and a lot more.

Tips to Prevent Itchy Scalp

If you are looking for tips to prevent itchy scalp, then here are some tips for you.

• Washing your hair regularly can help in removing built-up oils.
• Try to use warm water to wash your hair. This helps in avoiding irritation and prevents your scalp from drying out.
• To bring down allergic reactions, avoid hair products that contain dyes and fragrances.
• Avoid getting in physical contact with people having lice. This can be done by refraining from sharing combs, towels, hats, helmets and pillowcases.

If you constantly look around for ingredients that may magically transform your itchy scalp, this article would have helped you. With these home remedies, you can say a big goodbye to the itchy and dry scalp.