Cold weather can cause dry scalp, which is when the skin on your scalp becomes excessively dry. A dry scalp appears because of several factors such as lack of humidity, air pollution, and hair products.
If you have this condition, you will notice that your scalp feels itchy or tingly, and it may also feel tight. You may also see flakes on your hair or dandruff.
There are many ways you can ensure that your scalp isn’t dry, even during the cold weather. But first, let’s start covering what exactly is a dry scalp and the causes behind it.
Dry Scalp: What is it and Why Do You Have It?
A dry scalp is a common skin condition that causes the skin to become dry and flaky. A variety of factors can cause dry scalp. The most common cause of dry scalp is the overproduction of sebum, or oil, by the sebaceous glands in your skin.
The most common symptoms are redness, itching, and scalps prone to cracking and bleeding. These symptoms can also result from other factors such as an allergic reaction to hair products or an underlying medical condition such as eczema or psoriasis.
A dry scalp may also mean a lack of moisture in your hair. It may happen when you use too many chemicals on your hair that strip away natural oils or when you spend too much time in the sun without protecting your hair.
The cold weather is another factor that can lead to a dry scalp.
How to Prevent Dry Scalp During Cold Weather
Now that you know what causes a dry scalp, it’s time to see what you can do to prevent it during the cold weather season.
Internal Remedies and Diet
Internal remedies for dry scalp include drinking more water, eating more omega-3 fatty acids, and taking vitamin E supplements.
Some people find relief through diet changes and internal remedies, while others need topical treatments or medications.
The best way to prevent dry scalp is to identify the cause of the problem and then make adjustments accordingly.
Switching Up Shampoo
There are many reasons you should change your shampoo during the winter season. One of them is that shampoos can be too harsh on your hair during this time of year, leading to a dry scalp. Another reason is that some shampoos are not for people with oily hair, so they may not work as well for you during the winter months.
The best way to prevent a dry scalp is by using a moisturizing shampoo that will help keep your hair hydrated and healthy.
During other times of the year, a moisturizing shampoo might make your hair and scalp too oily, so make sure to switch them out when the weather starts warmer.
Use of Conditioner
You need a conditioner to ensure that your hair replenishes any moisture it loses while washing it while bathing.
Conditioners can add moisturize to your hair and scalp, which will help keep it healthy and hydrated during the winter months. During the colder seasons, though, you might need to use a heavier and more moisturizing conditioner to ensure that your scalp is as moisturized and as prepared as possible during the cold drying months.
Also, don’t forget to deep condition your hair occasionally as well. Other people even find leave-in conditioners especially helpful when they go out into the frigid air.
Scalp Massage
A scalp massage is a great way to prevent dryness and flaking during cold weather. It can also help with dandruff and itchy scalp.
The best time to do a scalp massage is before going to bed. You can use your fingers or a brush to massage your scalp for about five minutes gently. You should be cautious about using oils as they can make your hair greasy and heavy if you’re not careful. It is a simple yet effective way to keep your hair and scalp healthy.
Some people recommend using a hair moisturizer to help moisturize the scalp while massaging it.
Regular Oiling
Hair oils are a great way to prevent dry scalp during the cold season. They can be used on any hair type and are usually made with natural ingredients that can help keep your scalp moisturized.
Oil is an excellent moisturizer for your hair and scalp. It is rich in fatty acids that help keep your skin hydrated and healthy. It also contains vitamins A, D, E, and K, essential for hair growth.
Just be mindful of your usage so that your hair isn’t greasy.
Minimize Heat
When it’s cold outside, the heat from hair tools can make your scalp feel dry and itchy. It is because the heat from the devices can cause your scalp to overheat and dry out.
To avoid this, you should minimize heat use on your hair and scalp during cold weather. For example, you could use a blow dryer without heat or try a diffuser instead of a round brush.
Applying these tips during cold weather can moisturize your scalp throughout the entire team. Plus, your hair and scalp will both be healthier even during the frigid weather that’s affecting your hair and scalp.