Derms Recommend This Ingredient to Fix Dry, Flaky Scalps (and It Only Costs $13)
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@jordanrisaNo skin or hair issue is fun to deal with, but there are a few that go beyond irritating and verge into uncomfortable. A dry, flaky, itchy scalp is one of them. This might be TMI, but I deal with it all the time, especially since I recently moved back to a cold, dry climate. Since I put so much time, effort (and, let's be real), and money into making my hair and scalp the best it can be, it's discouraging when I see tightness, redness, and flakiness instead of a healthy, fertile scalp.
So what can I do to remedy the situation? I can invest in the right scalp care products. I can also use a naturally anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial ingredient that costs less than $20. Yep, and it's recommended by dermatologists too. I'm talking about tea tree oil—an ingredient that can fix dry, flaky scalps in a pinch. Ahead, learn everything you need to know about this ingredient and how it can fix one of the biggest winter beauty woes.
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@devapollonGeeta Yadav, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Facet Dermatology. She says tea tree oil comes from the tea tree (melaleuca alternifolia), which is native to Australia. It's so good at fixing dry, flaky scalps, that it can even help manage full-blown dandruff… and reduce the greasiness of hair. Cool, right?
"Studies show that tea tree oil can be very beneficial in treating flaky scalps, especially in those managing mild to moderate dandruff," she says. "It can improve the appearance of the dandruff lesions as well as itchiness and perceived greasiness of the hair."
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@britcorreiaThe best part about tea tree oil is that it can benefit anyone—regardless of hair type or texture. "So long as you don't experience a negative reaction to tea tree oil, it can be used daily," Yadav says.
That doesn't mean you can go all in and start using tea tree oil with abandon. As with any new skincare ingredient or product, performing a patch test is key. "Though it is an anti-inflammatory ingredient, tea tree oil is potent and can cause some irritation. It's important to patch-test any new ingredient, especially if you have sensitive skin, before adding it to your regular routine," Yadav cautions.
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@maryljean
"This formula contains mint oils and charcoal as well as tea tree, which can help cool, soothe, and purify an itchy and uncomfortable scalp," Yadav says.
Another Briogeo product that contains tea tree oil, this is specifically formulated to remove build-up from styling products (like dry shampoo. IYKYK).
Here's another residue-busting product. It blends tea tree oil with peppermint and witch hazel for the ultimate detoxifying formula.
Yadav also recommends this scalp serum. "Beyond tea tree oil, this formula contains a blend of caffeine, peptides, and rosemary oil to promote stronger, thicker hair growth," says Yadav.
An easy way to incorporate tea tree oil into your routine is to use a shampoo that's spiked with it. This one pairs it with hair growth-boosting rosemary oil.
This scalp serum soothes dryness and itchiness with only a few drops.
Perhaps the most iconic tea tree product, this Paul Mitchell shampoo is tried and true. Plus, if you experience any burning sensations with your dry, itchy scalp, this will provide an instant cooling effect.
Dial up the shampoo and conditioner by adding this salt scrub to your routine. It's sure to remove pesky flakes.
If you experience a lot of flaking, you can't go wrong with good ol' Head & Shoulders. This 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner uses tea tree oil to soothe the scalp.