Dry Scalp Problems: 5 Surprising Causes and How to Avoid Them

Having a dry scalp is an itchy, uncomfortable problem that can occur and recur in different skin and hair types. If your skin is dry, your scalp is also likely dehydrated and prone to flaking. However, other lifestyle factors can contribute.

Sometimes your hair gel or pomade overstays its welcome and sticks to your scalp. It’s one of the most common dry scalp causes in men. If you use these styling products every day, this is likely to happen. When it does, the buildup can clog and irritate your scalp, resulting in flakes and dryness. Don't mistake it for dandruff, which comes from oil and a yeast-like fungus. These flakes comprise natural buildup and product residue. You can avoid this by rinsing your hair thoroughly before washing and rubbing the shampoo between your palms before massaging it onto your scalp.

Maybe you shampoo too often, especially in this climate or if you have long hair. That squeaky clean feeling is nice, but it also means your scalp and hair are stripped of natural oils. These oils moisturize the scalp to keep it protected from irritation and dryness. Generally, you should wash your hair when it’s visibly sweaty or oily and your scalp is itching. Whether this happens every day, every other day, or every three days, varies from person to person. 

It doesn’t happen too often in the Philippines, but occasionally, the temperature drops. Even just a bit of cold air can dry out the skin, including the scalp. On the other hand, a sudden blast of heat, staying out under the sun, or showering with hot water can also cause scalp dryness. Use a humidifier at home to add moisture to indoor air and alleviate the dryness. If your scalp is already flaking, shower with warm water instead.

The National Institutes of Health notes that aging skin doesn’t produce as much oil and therefore, tends to be drier. Years of unprotected sun exposure can also catch up with you and result in a dry scalp. Avoiding hot water can help prevent this or minimize symptoms. Keeping products that are not for the scalp away from the scalp also helps. Wear a cap if you’re going to be out in the sun for a while.

Are you concerned about your job? Do you feel ill? Are you dealing with complicated family matters? These stressful circumstances can show up on your scalp. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, skin problems can occur when the body’s cortisol level rises, leading to a stressed-out scalp that breaks out in flakes. The U.S. Center for Disease Control recommends engaging in exercise, connecting with friends, and getting plenty of sleep as among the ways to reduce stress.

Address itching and flakes with CLEAR Cool Sport Menthol Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Men. This shampoo effectively gets rid of oil and grime from the scalp, including sweat, dirt, product residue, and dandruff-causing bacteria. Infused with menthol, it also leaves the scalp with a long-lasting cool sensation.

Dry scalp is a common issue that happens to most men, but don’t let it get you down. Check if you’re doing or experiencing any of the items listed above and make minor adjustments to alleviate your symptoms. It’s not a permanent condition, and there’s no reason for it to last longer than it should.