If you are suffering from dry and dull hair, and often see white dandruff flakes on your shoulder, then a dry scalp could be the reason behind it. Many people feel embarrassed due to the white flakes and the itching that dry scalp can cause. The irritation that dry scalp causes can sometimes be unbearable; therefore, it is important to choose effective treatment methods to treat it as soon as possible.

What causes dry scalp?
Dry scalp is caused when the oil-producing glands on the scalp are not active or underactive and are not producing enough amounts of natural oil. This natural oil helps keeps the scalp moist all the time. The following are some other causes of a dry scalp:

• If you are using harsh, chemical-filled shampoos, it can cause dry scalp
• When you are using hard water to wash your hair
• Fungal infections
• Extreme weather conditions like extreme heat or cold climates
• Improper diet
• Harsh styling products
• Not oiling your hair often or not using conditioners after shampooing

To combat dry scalp, the following list provides some effective dry scalp treatments:

Oil massage:  One of the best and most proven methods for treating dry scalp is oil massage. You can take any oil that you use regularly and massage the scalp in circular motions. In this way, blood circulation will be promoted in the scalp and your hair will also start growing in a natural way. When using oil for massage, it is always efficient to heat it slightly. This means that you should use lukewarm oil to massage your scalp, and this can be especially helpful if the dry scalp is being caused due to some fungal infection.

Tea tree oil:  Another effective dry scalp treatment is using tea tree oil along with a shampoo. You need not change your regular shampoo if it is mild and chemical free. You can use the same shampoo, but if you think that the shampoo has harsh chemicals, then it is always good to replace the shampoo first. You should add a few drops of tea tree oil to the regular shampoo and mix it well. You can then use this shampoo for washing your hair. This is a good treatment for dry scalp commonly caused by fungal infection. This will not just treat the dry scalp, but will also open the closed pores which will help in increased natural oil production, thereby keeping your scalp moist.

Lemon juice:  For those who are looking for dry scalp treatments, here is another amazing option that can be done at home. All you will need is a lemon. You need to comb your hair first to get rid of the frizz and then start rubbing a piece of lemon on the scalp. Part your hair in places and keep rubbing the lemon. You need to leave the lemon juice on the scalp for at least 5 to 15 minutes and then you can wash it off with a regular mild shampoo and then use a conditioner on it. You can repeat this twice a week to see good results. This will maintain the pH levels of the scalp and hence will treat dry scalp effectively.

Egg and yogurt:  One of the best dry scalp treatments available in your kitchen is the combination of eggs and yogurt. You will need just one egg and unflavored yogurt, along with honey. You need to beat the yogurt and egg together in order to make a smooth paste. After this, you can add honey to the mixture and combine it well. You should apply this smooth paste on your scalp carefully and let it stay for at least 30 minutes. You can then wash it off with shampoo and then condition your hair. Repeat this at least twice a week and you will be able to see the difference. The problem of having a dry scalp will vanish and you will notice healthy hair growth.

Baking soda:  Baking soda can help in maintaining the pH levels of the scalp and also act as an antibacterial agent. You can take at least 2 to 3 tablespoons of baking soda and mix it with rose water to make a smooth paste. You can then apply this paste and leave it on your scalp for around 5 minutes. Do not leave it on for more than 5 minutes and wash with cool water. You can do this routine at least once or twice a week.

Along with the abovementioned tips, make sure to drink a lot of water every day to keep yourself hydrated. Most skin and scalp problems can be treated by drinking the right amount of water. You can also talk to a dermatologist if you are suffering from a severely dry scalp or if natural dry scalp treatments do not work for you.