Photo: Jupiterimages/Pixland/Getty Images
You worry about your hair -- how shiny it is, how straight or curly it is and even how healthy it is. But the one thing you don’t think about as much is your scalp. Good hair literally starts with a good scalp. So if it’s scaly or flaking, look for moisturizing lotions that can soften your scalp. One catch, however: You have to find the right lotion that won’t make your hair greasy or weighed down.
Lotion vs. Other Treatments
Dry scalp can stem from a lot of things -- irritating your scalp with excess heat styling or a medical condition like dandruff or eczema. Since flakes aren’t part of your hair styling routine, you can use a lotion to treat your dry skin. Don’t confuse lotion with shampoo or conditioner, however. Think of it just like the lotion you put on your body. Dry scalp lotion goes on clean, dry hair. You massage it into your hair, let it dry and you’re out the door.
SPF-Containing Lotions
If you’re a sun bunny or just spent a lot longer outside than you planned, there could be a reason you’re not considering for why your scalp is dry: It’s sunburned. Each time you go outside, the sun can work its sneaky way through to your scalp and burn it, causing a dry, itchy and flaky scalp. When this happens, you can apply a sunscreen lotion made specifically for your hair and scalp (why should your skin have all the fun?).
Dandruff Brands
It’s hard enough to admit you have dandruff, but to have to use a dandruff shampoo doesn't really sound very glamorous. They also can dry out your scalp even more. Instead, use a moisturizing shampoo and look for a scalp lotion that contains anti-inflammatory ingredients like aloe vera and green tea extracts (you’d be surprised how many dandruff shampoo manufacturers also make these scalp lotions). This way you can keep your hair healthy and moisturized along with your scalp.
Prescription Lotions
If your scalp isn’t responding to scalp lotions you buy at your drugstore, it may be time to give your dermatologist or primary care physician a call. This is because she can prescribe a stronger form of scalp lotion that can help to reduce inflammation. While they may not be an overnight cure, prescription treatments such as locoid scalp lotion contain medications such as hydrocortisone butyrate -- much stronger than the hydrocortisone you buy over the counter -- that penetrate your scalp. Think of it like a mediator that soothes angry scalp cells.
