Quick answer: An itchy or dry scalp is usually caused by dryness/barrier stress, irritation, or build-up (styling + oil + pollution). The fastest, most realistic fix is a gentle routine: mild scalp-friendly shampoo, 1× weekly scalp scrub, plus light protection (leave-in/conditioner) and optional scalp oil if you feel tightness.
Related quick reads: What helps itchy scalp? (Causes + quick relief) · Best shampoo for itchy scalp (fast calming routine)
Contents: Causes · Quick relief · Best routine · Products · FAQ · UK shipping
Why is my scalp itchy or dry? (Most common reasons)
Itch doesn’t automatically mean “dandruff”. Very often it’s a mix of environment + washing habits + product residue.
- Dryness & barrier stress: hot showers, central heating, cold wind.
- Over-cleansing: harsh shampoos or washing too aggressively (“squeaky clean” can be a warning sign).
- Build-up: dry shampoo, hairspray, wax, silicones, pollution particles.
- Sensitive scalp: reacts to fragrance, friction, strong actives, rough scrubbing.
- Mechanical irritation: tight styles, heavy brushing, scratching with nails.
- Stress & sleep: can worsen skin sensation—yes, also on the scalp.
Note: If you have weeping skin, pain, open sores, or symptoms that don’t improve, please consult a dermatologist. This guide is not medical advice.
What you can do today (10 minutes)
- Rinse lukewarm, not hot.
- Massage with fingertips only (never nails).
- Pause styling for 48h (especially dry shampoo + hairspray) if build-up is likely.
- Switch to a mild shampoo for the next 2 weeks.
- If itch hits on day 2–3: do a 1× scalp reset with a scrub (see below).
Mini-check: Itch right after washing = often dryness/barrier. Itch day 2–3 = often build-up/imbalance.
The best scalp routine (simple, realistic, effective)
Stick with this for 3–4 weeks to let your scalp calm down.
Step 1: Gentle cleansing (2–4×/week)
- For sensitive/itchy scalp: Vixxar Scalp Shampoo 400ml
- For tight, dry feeling: Vixxar Moisturising Shampoo 300ml
How to wash properly: lather in hands first → apply section-by-section to scalp → massage gently for 60 seconds → rinse well. If you use lots of styling products: shampoo twice (1st loosens residue, 2nd cleans).
Step 2: The weekly reset (1×/week)
A scalp scrub is a game-changer when build-up is part of the problem.
Recommended: Deep Cleanse Scalp Scrub Rosemary & Mint 170ml
- Apply to wet scalp section-by-section.
- Massage 30–60 seconds (gentle).
- Rinse thoroughly.
- Follow with Scalp Shampoo or Moisturising Shampoo.
Want the full scrub tutorial? Scalp scrub: why 1× a week changes your scalp.
Shop the Scalp Relief Routine (UK)
- Scalp Shampoo 400ml – gentle base for itch & sensitivity
- Deep Cleanse Scalp Scrub 170ml – 1×/week reset for build-up
- Rosemary Hair & Scalp Oil 30ml – optional if you feel dryness/tightness
Quick start: Begin with Shampoo + Scrub. Add oil only if you’re dry/tight.
Step 3: Protect + reduce friction (after every wash)
Dry lengths = more tugging and rubbing = more scalp irritation. Keep lengths smooth and protected.
- Leave-in protection: Keratin Shine Leave-In Hair Mist 100ml
- Light conditioner (lengths only): Fresh Conditioner Citrus Cocktail 370ml
Choose your routine by goal (fast picks)
- Itchy/sensitive scalp: Scalp Shampoo + 1×/week Scalp Scrub
- Dry/tight scalp: Moisturising Shampoo + optional Rosemary Oil pre-wash
- Want gloss/colour/volume too? Best shampoo routines (Gloss vs Colour vs Volume)
Browse all hair care here: Organic Hair Care Collection.
FAQ (short answers)
How long does it take to calm an itchy scalp?
Many people feel improvement in 7–14 days. More stable results usually need 3–4 weeks of consistency.
Do I need an “anti-dandruff” shampoo?
Not always. If your scalp is sensitive, a milder routine + weekly reset often works better than going stronger.
Shipping to the UK
- Free shipping: orders over 85 EUR
- Standard delivery: typically around 4–7 working days (plus ~2 days fulfilment)
- Express delivery: typically 2–3 working days (plus fulfilment)
Call to action: If you change just one thing: use a mild scalp shampoo + add a 1× weekly scalp scrub. Start with Scalp Shampoo + Deep Cleanse Scalp Scrub.
