Itchy Scalp and Dandruff – What’s the Link?
Itchy scalp is a really common problem, and one of the main causes is dandruff. What’s the link between the two?
Itching is the body’s natural response to irritation. We’ve all experienced itching in some form, whether from a rough fabric rubbing against the skin, a bee sting or an allergic reaction to something.
It happens as a signal travels from the irritated area to the brain in an instant – your body experiences irritation and the itch comes almost immediately.
An itchy scalp can be one of the early signs of dandruff, and often starts before flakes appear.
To understand how dandruff causes an itchy scalp, first you have to understand what causes dandruff.
Dandruff is a response to irritation. Naturally occurring microbes break down your scalp oils to form oleic acid, which some people are sensitive to. This causes itchiness, irritation and visible flakes.
The body’s itch response is so fast, it often happens before any other symptom of dandruff is noticeable.
So while you might think you don’t have dandruff, an itchy scalp is often an early sign that dandruff is developing.
Whatever you do, resist the itch!
You’ll just end up damaging your scalp if you scratch, leading to further irritation.
Fight the itch with our Cool Menthol Shampoo. Its calming formula with eucalyptus will give you a cooling feeling while the anti-dandruff actives work to tackle the root cause.
Use anti-dandruff shampoo every time you wash your hair, to help keep both the flakes and itch at bay.
More about itchy scalp
More tips and advice from the experts:
- Itchy scalp
- Itchy, dry, & sensitive scalp
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