Hair Care for Dry Scalp

A dry scalp may feel tight, rough, or itchy and shed fine flakes after cold, dry air, hot water, or irritating products. Larger or greasy scale can fit dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis. Thick, clearly defined plaques may occur with scalp psoriasis, while broken hairs, tender areas, or a spreading patch can suggest scalp ringworm. The appearance matters because a moisturising routine alone will not treat every cause.

Use lukewarm water and a fragrance-free, gentle shampoo; massage the scalp lightly and rinse thoroughly. Apply conditioner to the hair lengths, keeping rich products away from a scalp that becomes oily or congested. Avoid scratching, alcohol-heavy styling products, and sudden changes to several products at once. If scale persists, a clinician may recommend Medicated Shampoo Treatment and explain how to fit it into your routine. Do not share combs, brushes, hats, or towels if a fungal infection is possible.

Book an assessment for persistent flaking, intense itch, thick plaques, scalp pain, pus, swollen areas, or hair breaking in patches. Prompt review is especially useful when a child has a scaly patch with hair loss, because scalp ringworm needs specific treatment and can spread to others.

Ask whether the scale looks like dryness, dandruff, psoriasis, or infection; which cleanser is suitable; whether you need a medicated product; and how to protect family members if infection is suspected.