Stop hair problems: 7-plus expert tips to tackle that flaky, itchy scalp this monsoon

Hair care tips: Over-washing can make the scalp dry and angry. Natural oils keep your scalp healthy, don’t wash them away too often (Image: Pexels)

Come monsoon and many people find themselves scratching away at a flaky, itchy scalp, thanks to the humidity and damp weather, which cause fungal infections. However, do not panic or rush for harsh chemical treatments. With a little care, and some old-fashioned wisdom, you can keep that scalp calm, clean and comfortable.

The scalp needs as much care and nourishment as the skin, sometimes, even more, says Divita Kanoria, Founder of Tatha, a skincare and wellness brand, Delhi. “The monsoon can cause fungal infections and scale, along with hair issues like dandruff, hair fall, flaky, and itchy scalp, due to humidity and dampness. It is important to tackle these problem head-on, as ignoring them can lead to bigger issues,” she adds.

7-plus easy tips, suggested by Kanoria, to keep your scalp infection free in monsoon:

Also read | Hair care tips: Stop hair loss with these 6 expert-approved home remedies for summer

• Be gentle with your scalp cleanser: A harsh shampoo will only strip away your scalp’s natural defence. Instead, pick a mild, herbal cleanser that works with your scalp, not against it. “Look for time-tested ingredients like tea tree oil, neem, rosemary, salicylic acid, or even apple cider vinegar. Wash your hair two to three times a week, not daily. Over-washing can make the scalp dry and angry. Natural oils keep your scalp healthy, don’t wash them away too often,” Kanoria says.

• Never let your scalp stay damp: This cannot be stressed enough, always dry your hair thoroughly after a wash or if you’ve been caught in the rain. “Do not tie your hair when it’s wet. The scalp needs air and dryness to stay healthy, especially during humid weather,” she says.

• Exfoliate once a week, your scalp needs it too: Just like your skin needs a scrub, your scalp also benefits from gentle exfoliation. “A weekly scalp scrub removes dead cells, excess oil and stubborn flakes. You’ll be surprised how refreshed your scalp feels after this simple step,” the expert says.

• Soothe with a calming scalp tonic or serum: A scalp serum may sound fancy, but it can be your saviour in this sticky season. “Pick a product with soothing ingredients like witch hazel, aloe vera, green tea, or the much-loved centella asiatica (commonly called gotu kola). Apply a few drops to your scalp to ease that constant itch,” Kanoria says.

• Avoid heavy oils, choose carefully: Traditional oiling may seem tempting, but thick, sticky oils can clog the scalp in this weather. “Opt instead for lighter oils such as jojoba, argan, or grapeseed. And remember to use them before your wash, not after. Oiling is best done before the bath, not after it," she says.

• Nourish from within, your diet matters: No beauty ritual works well without the right diet backing it up. “Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and biotin, like nuts, seeds, and leafy greens. And yes, keep sipping water throughout the day. Try cutting down on sugary treats and dairy if your scalp tends to get oily or flaky,” she adds.

• Grandma’s secret: Old-school remedies never go out of style. Mix a bit of yoghurt with neem powder for an effective anti-dandruff mask. Apply it once a week. It cools the scalp and keeps dandruff at bay, without costing a fortune. Sometimes, the best cures are found in your kitchen," Kanoria says.

• Avoid washing hair with very hot water
• Steer clear of shampoos containing parabens or sulfates
• Never share combs, scarves, or helmets
• Don’t keep wearing damp headscarves or helmets for too long