There are a few reasons why an itchy scalp would be normal— the starter locs phase is one of the most common reasons. This is mainly because the to scalp is being exposed to the elements more than it was used to. Another common cause of itchy scalp with locs is simply because your scalp is trying to tell you that it is time for a shampoo. Unfortunately, this myth has spread through the loc community that shampooing once a month is ideal. That’s false.
Honestly, 3, maybe 4 weeks, is the longest you want to go without shampooing (cleansing the scalp). With that said, let’s look at some causes of itchy scalp that are not so common and itchy scalp remedies. I share some of the uncommon causes of itchy scalp and scalp remedies in the “How to Get Rid of Itchy Scalp” video on my channel.
UNCOMMON CAUSES OF ITCHY SCALP
With a holistic approach to locs, it is NOT recommended that you assume an itchy scalp just means dry scalp. Discovering what causes itchy scalp will require you to look deeper into your total body wellness. A few areas in your life that are worth evaluating when you are experiencing itchy scalp with locs are your stress levels, diet, hygiene and hair care.
Stress. Anxiety and stress can go as far as to cause bald patches in the hair. However, before bald spots show up you can experience recurring itching in the same spots.
Food Allergies. It’s crazy that they can develop at any point in your life. Some of my favorite foods now cause my scalp (and entire body) to itch like crazy. If you notice a pattern between what you eat and when your hair starts itching, it’s worth a doctor’s visit.
Dirty Bonnet. I’m not judging you here; just sending a gentle reminder. Wash your bonnet. You should do this every time you shampoo your hair.
Sweat Left on The Scalp. Anytime you sweat in your scalp, you should cleanse your scalp. It doesn’t need to be a full shampoo but you have to remove the sweat. When the sweat is not removed, it can dry and leave salt deposits on the scalp which causes itching.
Now, no matter the cause of the itching, I know you would like to know some ways to get rid of itchy scalp.
ITCHY SCALP REMEDIES
Scalp Revitalizer. You don’t want to scratch your scalp with your nails. Scratching your scalp with your nails can cause thinning and breakage at your roots. Instead, using a tool such as the Scalp Revitalizer will soothe your scalp, protect your roots and not disturb the locking process. It’s a must have.
Astringent Moisturizer. Remember I said you should cleanse your scalp but you don’t need to always shampoo your hair? An Astringent Moisturizer is what you need. It soothes the scalp, deodorizes the hair and helps to balance the pH. (But, please be careful of astringents with alcohol like Seabreeze— that’s a NO-NO!).
No Oil Routine. If your itchy scalp is caused from a scalp condition like dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis or scalp psoriasis you want to stay away from oils. Oil will only make things worse. Instead of oils opt for medicated shampoo (prescription or OTC) and herbal hair treatments for shine.
Don’t let itchy scalp discourage you along your loc journey. You can grow and cultivate healthy locs—just listen to your scalp!
Let us know in the comments how you handle your itchy scalp!
If you still feel like the itchy scalp, flaking or thinning at the roots is taking over your loc journey, check out the “Battling Buildup” workshop for professional insight on scalp relief.
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