Many find scalp itching to be embarrassing as well as painful, as scratching can result in flakes.

As it turns out, the culprits can be anything from product ingredients to skin conditions.

Keep reading for what they had to say.

Rear view of a woman with a short haircut holding her on the back of her head

Clique Images / Stocksy

However, when diagnosing a dry scalp, our experts name sulfates as a top culprit.

According to Portela, sulfates are among the most common irritants in shampoos.

Products that are harsh on your scalp can cause excess dryness and lead to itching.

“I recommend sticking to shampoos with more natural ingredients, including hydrating ingredients,” he adds.

Using Irritating Products

Rubin tells us that properly-formulated haircare products can help improve signs of dry scalp.

Many haircare products contain ingredients and allergens that may cause irritation and inflammation of the scalp, such asfragrance.

“Consider incorporating a soothing scalp serum into your haircare routine,” says Rubin.

Rubin cautions that using hot water when rinsing shampoo and conditioner can lead to a dry scalp.

There are many benefits to takingcolder showers, including helping to prevent scalp dryness.

If you decide to eliminate PPD from your beauty routine, there are other options.

There are hair dyes formulated without PP andnatural alternativesthat may not have the same negative side effects.

Be sure to apply ascalp sunscreento any exposed scalp skin, especially your part.

Dandruff is an inflammatory reaction to an overgrowth of a yeast called malessezia on the skin, explains Rubin.

However, Portela explains that dandruff can be exacerbated by not washing your hair frequently enough.

Inflammatory Skin Conditions

Sometimes a dry scalp is not just a dry scalp.

Portela explains that several inflammatory skin conditions can lead to dry scalp, such aseczema or psoriasis.