27 Ways to Get Rid Of Itchy Scalp Fast

Itchy Scalp

There is nothing worse than a constant urge to scratch your scalp, especially in public places. Itchy scalp can be caused due to dandruff, ringworm, poor hair care, head lice, or even by an autoimmune disease.

How To Get Rid Of Itchy Scalp?

If itchy scalp is left untreated, then it can lead to hair loss, baldness, redness, swelling and the constant scratching leads to open sores. That is why you should try getting rid of itchy scalp as soon as possible. For this purpose many treatments are available.

Itchy Scalp Treatment

Commercial treatments include keratolytic treatments or steroids which can have serious side effects. But natural remedies like apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil or any other method mentioned below can treat itchy scalp without any side effects.

Home Remedies For Itchy Scalp

There are different ingredients that can be used to treat itchy scalp at home. For your convenience, we have assorted them below. Choose one among them as per your interest and try it regularly to get relief from itchy scalp.

1. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)

Apple cider vinegar contains anti-inflammatory property which helps to kill the yeast or virus that causes itchy scalp. It also balances the pH levels of the scalp to clear the itchiness. The acetic acid present in apple cider vinegar acts as natural cleanser which exfoliates the dead skin cells and other build up on the scalp. The alpha hydroxy acids in apple cider vinegar exfoliate the top layers of your skin and even provide relief scalp psoriasis.

Method 1:

• Rinse your hair and scalp with water and let it dry completely.
• Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water.
• Then pour the solution into a spray bottle
• Now apply this solution directly on your scalp using cotton ball and massage for a few minutes.
• After that, spray it onto your scalp
• Wrap your head with a towel or shower cap. Leave it for 15 – 30 minutes.
• Wash off with shampoo and water.
• Repeat once or twice a week.

Method 2:

This process works well if you suffer from itchy scalp due to excessive dryness.

• Rinse your hair normally with shampoo and water.
• Using a cotton ball, apply apple cider vinegar on the scalp thoroughly.
• Leave it on for 15 – 20 minutes.
• Rinse off with water.
• Repeat regularly.

Method 3: Rosemary

This combination moisturizes the scalp and provides relief from dryness and itchy scalp.

• Combine handful of rosemary into 3 cups of water.
• Bring this mixture to boil.
• Simmer for 30-45 minutes on low heat.
• Remove from the flame, strain and let it cool down.
• Now, add 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar and 10 drops each of rosemary and peppermint essential oils.
• Stir well and pour it into a spray bottle.
• Wash your hair normally with shampoo and water.
• Spray the solution on the scalp and along the hair.
• Leave it on for few minutes and rinse off with water.
• Repeat regularly.

2.  Tea Tree Oil

Terpinen-4-oil component present in tea tree oil contains natural antifungal, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties which help to treat an itchy scalp. It kills the fungus and bacteria that cause over production of skin cells leading to dandruff. It helps to clear clogged hair follicles which provide relief from itchy scalp.

Method 1:

• Dilute 2 – 3 drops of tea tree oil in a tablespoon of vegetable oil.
• Massage on your scalp to unclog your hair follicles and get relief from itching.
• Leave it on for 1 – 2 hours and rinse your hair with mild shampoo and water.
• Regularly use this for 1-2 weeks.

Note: If you can handle the strong nature of tea tree oil, then you can use it undiluted. Take 5 – 10 drops of tea tree oil and gently massage onto your scalp. Rinse off with water after few hours.

Method 2:

• Add 10 – 20 drops of tea tree oil to 1/2 cup of baby shampoo.
• Mix it well and use this daily to shampoo your hair.
• Repeat the process daily to get relief from the itchy scalp.

Other Methods:

• If you have itchy scalp due to dandruff, then use a shampoo that contains tea tree oil. After applying shampoo to your hair, leave it on for a minute and rinse off with water. Use the shampoo daily or once in 2 days for relief from itchy scalp.
• Tea Tree Oil Rinse: Add 5 – 10 drops of tea tree oil into enough water. First shampoo your hair and rinse off with water. Apply the tea tree oil mixture, leave it for few minutes and rinse off with normal water.

3. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera contains anti inflammatory and moisturizing properties which helps to give relief from the dryness. It also contains antifungal and antibacterial properties which fight off the fungi and yeast on the scalp causing itchiness. The enzymes present in aloe vera will remove the accumulated dead skin cells. The amino acids in aloe vera will stimulate growth of healthy tissue.

• Squeeze the gel from a fresh aloe vera leaf.
• Apply this to your scalp.
• Leave it on for 15 – 20 minutes and then wash off with mild shampoo and water.
• Repeat this process for 1-2 times a week.
• Note: Purchase and use aloe vera gel if you don’t have fresh aloe vera.

4. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil acts as a barrier which keeps your scalp moisturized and reduces dryness. It has antibacterial properties which fight off the folliculitis (infection of hair follicles) and other fungal infections like ringworm on the scalp.

Method 1:

• Slightly warm up coconut oil and massage it onto the scalp and hair roots.
• Repeat massaging for 10 minutes.
• Using a towel or shower cap, wrap your head.
• Let the scalp absorb the oil for 2 – 3 hours or overnight.
• Rinse off with shampoo (fragrance and chemical free) and water.
• Repeat 3 times in a week.

Method 2:

• Warm up the coconut oil until it melts.
• Add melted oil into the shampoo.
• Wash your hair and scalp with this mixture.
• Repeat the process 2 – 3 times a week for best results.

5. Baking Soda

Baking soda exfoliates the scalp and prevents dandruff which is caused by overactive fungi. The alkaline nature of baking soda balances the pH level and provides relief from the itchiness.

• Apply a few drops of olive oil on your scalp and rub for a few minutes.
• Mix 1 -2 tablespoons of baking soda in water.
• Apply this paste directly onto your scalp and let it soak for 10 – 15 minutes.
• Rinse with water and repeat regularly.

6. Lemon Juice

Being a natural cleaning agent and antibacterial, it removes any bacteria build up causing itchy scalp. The acidic nature of it balances the pH levels and provides relief from itching and dryness of scalp.

Method 1:

• Massage fresh lemon juice onto your scalp.
• Leave it on for 5 minutes before rinsing with water.
• Rinse again with one cup of water and a teaspoon of lemon juice.
• Repeat this remedy daily.

Note: 

• If the acidic nature of lemon is causing any irritation or if you are suffering from dandruff, dilute the lemon juice with some water before the application. Leave it for 5 minutes and rinse your hair with shampoo and water.
• If lemon juice is used consistently for a longer period of time then it may lighten your hair and stings the broken skin. It is better to use it for only a short period of time if you have dark hair.

Method 2:

• Mix lemon juice and yogurt.
• Apply to your scalp and leave for a few minutes.
• Wash your hair with mild shampoo and repeat daily.

7. Sesame Seed Oil

Sesame oil contains highly nourishing, lubricating and healing properties. Its moisturizing property locks the moisture and prevents dryness. If you have itchy scalp due to head lice then sesame oil helps in removing the head lice as well.

• Gently heat sesame seed oil.
• Apply this warm oil onto your scalp and massage gently for 10 minutes before bed.
• Wrap your head in a hot towel and leave for 10 minutes and then take it off.
• The next morning rinse your hair and scalp thoroughly with shampoo.
• Continue doing this process 2 to 3 times in a week to prevent the itchy scalp.

8. Bananas

Banana has nourishing and moisturizing properties which help to remove the flakes, inflammation and dryness. It relieves itching by conditioning your hair and scalp.

• Mash two ripe bananas and one ripe avocado into a paste
• Apply to your scalp and leave for 30 minutes.
• Rinse thoroughly and repeat regularly.

9. Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil contains a molecular structure which is closely related to the natural oil or sebum. It has an effective rejuvenating and hydrating property which heals the itchy scalp and makes your hair to grow strong.

• Massage a small amount of jojoba oil onto your scalp for a few minutes at night.
• Leave overnight and wash with mild shampoo the next morning.
• Continue doing this once a week.

10. Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is a natural astringent which helps to cure the itchy scalp by reducing the inflammation. It reduces the itchy scalp which is caused by hair coloring and blow drying.

• Mix one part of hazel oil with two parts of water.
• Apply the solution thoroughly on your scalp.
• Massage gently for 5 – 10 minutes.
• Rinse hair and scalp thoroughly.
• Repeat the process once in 3 – 4 days.

11. Olive Oil, Mayonnaise And Broccoli Puree

Olive oil helps to reduce the oiliness, mayonnaise helps to hydrate your scalp, clears the lice and adds shine to your hair and broccoli deeply cleanses your hair.

Method:

• Mix these ingredients together to make a paste.
• Rub on your scalp and leave for a few minutes.
• Rinse your hair thoroughly.
• Repeat regularly.

12. Onion Juice

The antibacterial and anti-fungal properties present in onion juice provide relief from itchiness caused by dandruff and ringworm. The essential nutrients like vitamin B6 & C, potassium, magnesium, germanium and sulfur nourish your scalp.

Method 1:

• Grate or blend 1 – 2 onions to extract juice from it.
• Using a cotton ball or fingers, apply the onion juice on the scalp thoroughly.
• Leave it on for 30 minutes.
• Rinse off with shampoo and water.
• Note: If undiluted onion juice is causing irritation or any other discomfort, then mix it with olive oil and massage into the scalp.

13. Honey

The enzymes present in honey have moisturizing properties which lock the moisture in skin cells. The natural antibiotic properties present in it treat dryness without any side effect. The benefits of banana and onion juice have already been discussed earlier in the article. As a whole this combination is very effective in treating itchy scalp.

• Mash 1 banana into paste.
• Add 2 tablespoons each of onion juice and honey into the banana paste.
• Stir well and massage it over the scalp.
• Leave it on for 20 minutes.
• Rinse off your hair with shampoo and water.
• Repeat the process daily or 2 -3 times in a week to achieve the results.

14. Lavender Oil

Lavender oil is known for its highly absorbable property which enables it to metabolize your body quickly. It is very good therapeutic oil which treats dry and itchy scalp.

• Combine 5 drops of lavender essential oil and 1 teaspoon of jojoba oil.
• Apply this mixture thoroughly onto the scalp and massage for 15 minutes.
• Let it rest for another 5 – 10 minutes.
• Rinse your hair with mild shampoo and water.
• Repeat regularly.

15. Eucalyptus Oil

The antiseptic and antifungal properties of eucalyptus oil helps in fighting off any scalp infections. It prevents any accumulation of residue and clogged pores which can cause dryness, dandruff and itchiness. It is also helpful in providing relief from mild psoriasis.

• Combine 3-4 tablespoons of white vinegar, 1 teaspoon of eucalyptus oil and 4 – 5 cups of water.
• Using this solution, rinse your hair thoroughly such that it covers the entire scalp.
• Rinse the hair with mild shampoo and water.
• Repeat regularly.

16. Neem Oil

Neem or Indian Lilac is considered to provide relief from intense itchiness of scalp since many ages. The antifungal, antibacterial and anti-septic properties present in neem oil prevent the accumulation and release of histamine which cures the inflammation.

• Take 4 – 8 drops of neem oil and massage it thoroughly on the scalp.
• If undiluted neem oil is strong for your scalp then dilute it with any carrier oil.
• Leave the application for 15 minutes.
• If you have head lice, leave the application for about 30 minutes. Don’t dilute neem oil in this case.
• Rinse off with mild shampoo and water.
• For extra effectiveness, you can add 2 – 3 drops of neem oil into your shampoo every time you rinse your hair.

17. Mixture Of Essential Oils

For this process, we will use neem oil, tea tree oil, rosemary oil, lavender oil and any other carrier oil like almond oil, olive oil, wheat germ oil or coconut oil. This mixture of essential oils provides a soothing effect to the scalp which reduces intense itchy scalp and severe itchiness that is caused by psoriasis.

• Combine 2 -3 drops of neem oil, 4 – 5 drops of tea tree oil, 2 -3 drops of rosemary oil, 1 -2 drops of lavender oil.
• Mix well and add 3 tablespoons of any carrier oil.
• Gently massage the mixture of essential oil onto the scalp.
• Leave it on for as long as you want and rinse off using mild shampoo and water.

18. Argan Oil

The nourishing and moisturizing properties of argan oil are a solution for many hair care problems. It can also be used for treating psoriasis.

• Apply some argon oil onto the scalp.
• Gently massage for a couple of minutes.
• Leave the application overnight.
• Rinse off your hair in the morning.
• Repeat the process at least once in a week.

19. Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil soothes the itchiness and inflammation of the skin. Apart from that it also contains antibacterial and antifungal properties.

• Combine 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint oil and 1- 1 1/2 teaspoon of any carrier oil (castor, olive or jojoba oil).
• Apply the mixture on scalp and leave it on for a couple of hours.
• Wash your hair thoroughly.
• Repeat the process 2 times in a week.
• Note: Avoid application of undiluted peppermint oil onto the scalp as it can cause soreness and cannot spread easily by itself.

20. Chamomile Spray

Chamomile is known to cure inflammation and many other health ailments. It also soothes the itchiness as well.

Method 1:

• Bring 2 cups of water to boil.
• Add a handful of chamomile flowers into it.
• Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer until the color of water changes.
• Switch off the stove and let it cool down.
• Strain and pour the solution into a clean spray bottle and refrigerate.
• Whenever you experience itchiness, spray the solution onto the scalp for quick relief.
• Repeat the application whenever you need it.

Method 2:

• Brew some chamomile tea and let it cool down.
• Using a cotton ball, apply the solution onto the scalp.
• Leave it on for some time and rinse off with water.
• Repeat regularly.

21. Strawberry

The vitamin C present in strawberry helps to balance the pH levels of the scalp.

• To a blender, add some strawberries, 1 tablespoon each of coconut oil and honey.
• Massage the mixture onto the scalp and leave it on for 15 minutes.
• Rinse off with water.
• Repeat regularly.

22. Oatmeal

The moisturizing and nourishing properties of oatmeal lock the moisture to prevent and treat itchiness and dryness of the scalp.

• Combine 1 tablespoon each of oats, raw milk and almond oil.
• Brush your hair to remove any knots.
• Apply the mixture onto scalp and along the hair.
• Leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes.
• Rinse off with shampoo and water.
• Repeat 2 -3 times in a week.

23. Juniper Berry

• Bring 2 cups of water to boil and remove from the flame.
• Add 1/2 cup of juniper berries (crushed) into it.
• Stir well and let it cool down to a temperature that your scalp can tolerate.
• Apply it on the scalp thoroughly.
• Let it rest for 10 minutes and rinse off with water.

24. Camphor

• Combine 5 grams of camphor and 20 grams of coconut oil.
• Stir well until the camphor dissolves.
• Apply the mixture on the scalp.
• Leave it on for 30 minutes and rinse off.

25. Bay Leaves

• Bring 2 cups of water to boil and remove from the flame.
• Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed bay leaves into the hot water.
• Leave it to steep for 30 minutes.
• Strain it and apply the solution onto the scalp.
• Leave it on for 30 minutes and rinse off.
• Repeat the process regularly.
• Note: Wash your hair thoroughly before trying this remedy for effective results.

26. Fenugreek Leaves

• Combine 1 tablespoon of fenugreek seeds in some water and let it soak overnight.
• Grind the soaked fenugreek seeds with some lemon juice.
• Apply the paste onto the scalp.
• Leave it for an hour and rinse off.
• Repeat 2 times in a week.

27. Margosa Oil

The antibacterial properties of margosa oil soothe the scalp and provide relief from itchiness. Massage some margosa oil onto the scalp for relief from itchy scalp.

Tips To Reduce The Itchy Scalp:

It is always important to make few changes in regular life to prevent or reduce itchiness of the scalp. Here is an assortment of few changes.

1. Switch Your Hair Products Regularly

When you use a hair product for a longer period of time, some stubborn chemicals or other components present in the products get accumulated on the scalp no matter how effectively, you rinse your hair. Hair care products like shampoos, hair gels, oil and conditioners should be changed regularly. When you try any new product, use it for at least 15 – 20 days before drawing any conclusion on it. If your scalp is too sensitive, it is better to choose any baby shampoo as it is very mild and doesn’t cause any problem to the scalp.

2. Opt For Chemical And Alcohol Free Hair Care Solutions

Shampoo that contains alcohol will dry out your scalp which causes itchiness. It is very important to choose chemicals and alcohol free shampoo for your hair. The chemicals like SLS (sodium lauryl sulphate), alcohol and other harmful chemicals can remove the natural oils and affect the natural pH balance. Even though the label on the shampoo states “all natural” it doesn’t mean to be all good. Always check the ingredients list present behind the shampoo for assurance.

3. After Each Wash, Make Sure To Dry Your Hair Properly

After rinsing , dry your hair thoroughly. If you tie up while it is still wet, it may lead to accumulation of residue on your scalp. Moist environments and damp hair are breeding grounds for microbes which can lead to fungal infection. So, it is recommended to dry your hair after every wash.

4. Comb Your Hair

Combing your hair improves the blood circulation which results in healthy hair and scalp as well. While brushing, the natural oils get distributed all over the scalp which prevents accumulation of any residue. Thus, you will never face clogged pores, dandruff, itchy scalp and other scalp problems.

5. Avoid Scalp Sunburn

Scalp also gets affected by harmful sunrays leading to scalp sunburn which causes irritation, itching along with other sunburn discomforts. It is very important to cover your head with a cap, scarf or umbrella when you are going out in the sun. This is very important for people who frequently suffer from sunburn.

6. Be Head Lice Free

Head lice can also cause itchy scalp. Take enough measures to remove any head lice infestation, if you notice any lice or lice eggs. There are many natural remedies for treating head lice.

7. Keep An Eye On Your Food

Poor nutrition can also lead to dandruff, itchiness and other scalp problems. For example, if you don’t consume enough omega 3 fatty acids then you may suffer from dandruff, dry skin and itchy scalp. Apart from taking omega 3 fatty acids, other nutrients like zinc and vitamin are important to prevent dry and itchy scalp. Here are foods that you should include in your regular diet for healthy skin, hair and scalp.

• Omega fatty acids are rich in salmon, tune, sardines and mackerel. If you are vegetarian, then you can get them from walnuts, flaxseeds, canola oil and pumpkin seeds.
• Include vitamin A rich foods like dairy foods, eggs, squash, sweet potatoes, cantaloupe, papaya and carrots.
• Vitamin B rich foods include poultry, dairy products, and meat while vegetarian sources are potatoes, whole grains, leafy greens and beans.
• Vitamin C rich foods include strawberries, Brussels, green peppers, spinach and various citrus fruits.
• Poultry, sea food, nuts, whole grains and meat are rich in zinc.

8. Drink Plenty Of Water

Keeping yourself hydrated is very important. Lack of water in the body can lead to dry skin and scalp. Drink 8 – 10 glasses of water daily.

9. Excessive Dryness Can Be Cured With Vitamin E

Vitamin E is an important nutrient which maintains proper skin and scalp health. You can find vitamin E in fatty foods which include wheat germ, vegetable oil, seeds, nuts etc. You can also take vitamin E supplements to prevent dryness of your scalp and skin. While purchasing, prefer a shampoo that contains vitamin E.

10. Reduce Your Stress Levels

Increased stress levels can lead to itchy scalp and hair loss. A phsycological stress or physical stress leads to hair fall in plods. This temporary condition is referred as telogen effluvium. During this condition you may see hair on your comb and scalp becomes itchy and more sensitive. This condition may last for 2 – 6 months but your hair follicles can take more than 1 ½ year to recover from it. So, it is very important to reduce your stress levels. Yoga, meditation, aerobics, deep breathing, swimming, walking, swimming, gardening or developing a new hobby can be helpful in reducing stress levels.

11. Oil Massage

Oil massage is the best remedy for treating dry scalp. Warm oil massage is much more effective than just oil massage. Avoid applying hot oil as can it can lead to burns on the scalp. Warm oil provides extra moisturization to the scalp and hair. As it absorbed much effectively, it can increase the blood circulation which leads to a healthy scalp.

12. Avoid Hot Water For Rinsing Your Hair

Rinsing your hair with hot water will strip away the moisture from the scalp and hair. Thus it leads to itchy and dry scalp. If you cannot wash your hair with cool water, then opt for lukewarm water to rinse your hair.

13. Maintain Basic Hygiene

If you are regularly suffering from itchy scalp then just washing your hair is not enough. Here is what you should be doing apart from rinsing your hair regularly.

• Wash your bed sheets and pillow covers regularly which eliminates the presence of dust mites that causes itching.
• Never share combs and brushes with others.
• Don’t scratch if you are feeling itchy. Try to take your attention away to avoid the temptation of scratching. Scratching makes the things worse. If you are not able to control the itchiness, then just rub your finger (not nail) wherever you feel the urge to scratch.

14. Avoid Over Washing Your Hair

Over washing or over use of shampoo can strip away the natural oils from the scalp which ultimately lead to itchy and dry scalp. Depending on your activity level, choose how many times your hair should be washed. Not washing hair enough can lead to accumulation of oil, dirt and grime which can also lead to flaky and itchy scalp. It is important to figure out the optimum times to wash your hair.

15. Stay Away From Foods Containing Yeast

Sometimes, persistent itching can be caused to yeast infestation (a type of fungus). Just treating the scalp is not enough to get rid of the infestation completely. It has to be treated from inside. Sugar, alcohol, refined carbohydrates like paste or white bread, mushrooms, peanuts and vinegar encourage yeast infection. Restricting your diet from these foods helps your body to get rid of yeast naturally.

16. Keep Your Combs Clean

Combs should be cleaned regularly. If the combs are not cleaned, the dust, grime, microorganisms present on it will go back onto head and cause itchy scalp. Whenever you shampoo your hair, clean your combs as well.