When the scalp is coated in oil, it creates an environment that can contribute to itching and discomfort rather than alleviating it. Here's a breakdown of what's happening:
1. Sebum Production and Scalp Oiliness:
- The scalp naturally produces sebum, an oily substance secreted by sebaceous glands. Sebum helps lubricate and protect the scalp, but excessive production can lead to an oily buildup. When additional oils (like hair oils or leave-in products) are applied, they can create a layer that traps sweat, dead skin cells, and environmental pollutants.
2. Oxygen Deprivation of Hair Follicles:
- Hair follicles require a certain level of oxygenation to maintain healthy skin and hair growth. When the scalp is covered in oil, the dense layer can reduce the skin's ability to "breathe" and limit oxygen reaching the follicle. This lack of oxygen can cause the scalp to feel irritated.
- When you shampoo, the oil layer is broken down, and oxygen can once again reach the scalp. This sudden exposure to oxygen may trigger a tingling or itching sensation as the scalp adjusts to the restored balance.
3. Bacterial and Mite Activity:
- The scalp is home to various microorganisms, including bacteria and mites (e.g., *Demodex* mites), which are typically harmless in controlled numbers. However, a thick layer of oil can create a moist, warm environment that fosters bacterial overgrowth and supports mites.
- These organisms feed on the oils, and their metabolic byproducts can irritate the scalp, contributing to itching and inflammation. The temporary soothing effect that oil might provide could just be masking the underlying problem by reducing friction rather than addressing the root cause.
4. Shampooing and Itch Response:
- Shampooing not only removes excess oil but also washes away accumulated debris, bacteria, and microorganisms. This process may lead to the reactivation of nerve endings, causing itching as the scalp re-establishes its normal environment.
- Additionally, if the scalp has been compromised by bacterial overgrowth or mite activity, the shampoo can sometimes irritate sensitive areas, further contributing to itching.
Oil can give the illusion of a calm scalp by temporarily reducing friction, but it can actually contribute to bacterial growth and create an environment favorable for mites. When shampooing removes the oil and reintroduces oxygen to the follicles, it may cause a temporary itch as the scalp readjusts. This reaction is a result of restoring balance to the scalp's microenvironment and bringing it back to a healthier state.
If you’ve been consistently oiling your scalp and then stop, you might experience itching as your scalp adjusts to the new routine. Here’s why:
1. Change in Routine:
- When you stop oiling your scalp after a long period of regular oil application, your scalp needs time to rebalance itself. Your sebaceous glands may still be producing excess sebum, expecting the added oil layer. This change can lead to an adjustment period where the scalp feels dry or itchy as it normalizes.
2. Accumulated Debris and Microorganisms:
- Regular oiling can sometimes contribute to a buildup of dead skin cells, sebum, and debris on the scalp. When you stop oiling and focus on keeping the scalp clean, this debris is removed. However, during this transition, the scalp might feel more sensitive or irritated, leading to itching.
3. Disruption of Microbiome:
- Oils can foster a specific balance of microorganisms on your scalp. When you stop oiling, this balance changes, which can lead to a temporary increase in irritation or itching as the scalp’s microbiome adjusts to the new, cleaner environment.
4. Scalp Sensitivity:
- After stopping oiling, your scalp may become more sensitive to external factors like air exposure, sweat, or shampoo, leading to itching. This sensitivity should decrease over time as your scalp gets used to being clean and free from excess oil.
In summary, it’s normal for the scalp to itch after you stop oiling, especially if your scalp has become accustomed to it. Maintaining a consistent cleansing routine without over-oiling will allow your scalp to regulate itself and reduce itching over time.
Taking herbs internally can be beneficial for addressing the root causes of an itchy scalp, as it allows the body to absorb the active compounds that promote overall health and balance. Here’s why this approach can be effective:
1. Nutritional Support: Many herbs provide essential nutrients and antioxidants that support skin and scalp health from within. For example, herbs like rosemary and chamomile can help improve circulation and reduce inflammation in the body, which can alleviate scalp issues.
2. Systemic Healing: Internal consumption of herbs addresses not just the symptoms (like itching) but also the underlying causes, such as imbalances in the digestive or immune system, which can manifest as skin conditions. For instance, tea tree taken as a supplement can enhance the body's immune response to fungal infections or inflammation.
3. Long-Term Benefits: While topical treatments can provide immediate relief killing bacteria on the surface, ingesting herbs can have long-lasting effects by promoting general well-being. Peppermint, for example, can help reduce stress (a common trigger for scalp issues) and improve digestion, leading to better overall skin health.
Herbs can be consumed as teas, tinctures, or supplements, allowing their healing properties to work internally to balance the body and reduce scalp irritation over time.
Here’s how Zen Gun Powder, Lavender, and Red Nile Chamomile extracts work internally to soothe an itchy scalp and promote healing, even after external application stops:
Peppermint:
- How It Soothes Itching: Peppermint extract contains menthol, which provides a cooling sensation that immediately soothes the scalp and reduces the itch. When used in a glycerin-based extract, peppermint can penetrate the scalp more deeply, calming irritated skin. Internally, menthol acts as a natural anti-inflammatory, helping reduce systemic inflammation that may contribute to scalp irritation.
- Internal Healing Benefits: Peppermint extract taken internally supports digestion and stress relief, both of which play roles in overall skin health. Stress and digestive issues can lead to scalp problems like dandruff and inflammation. By calming the nervous system and supporting digestive health, peppermint helps maintain a balanced scalp environment, reducing the recurrence of itching.
- Spray Application Benefits & Longevity: The glycerin in the peppermint extract helps to lock in moisture on the scalp while delivering the cooling effects of menthol. Once shampooed out, the internal benefits of peppermint continue to support a healthier scalp by addressing underlying issues, ensuring longer-lasting relief from itching.
2. Lavender:
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- How It Soothes Itching: Lavender extract has calming, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Applied as a glycerin-based spray, it soothes scalp irritation and fights off any fungal or bacterial causes of itchiness. Internally, lavender works to calm the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety that can exacerbate scalp issues.
- Internal Healing Benefits: Taken internally, lavender helps regulate stress, a common trigger for scalp conditions like itching and inflammation. Its anti-inflammatory properties also work throughout the body, helping to reduce overall inflammation and promote skin healing.
3. Chamomile:
- How It Soothes Itching: Chamomile extract is rich in anti-inflammatory and calming compounds, making it excellent for reducing scalp irritation and soothing itchiness. Applied in a glycerin-based spray, chamomile helps calm the skin and reduce redness and irritation on the scalp. It also has mild antiseptic properties that can prevent further scalp issues.
- Internal Healing Benefits: Internally, chamomile promotes relaxation and reduces systemic inflammation, which are important for maintaining overall skin and scalp health. By reducing stress and improving sleep, chamomile helps prevent stress-related scalp conditions such as itching and dandruff. Its antioxidant properties also support healing from the inside out, helping to repair and soothe irritated skin over time.
- Spray Application Benefits & Longevity:The topical application of chamomile in a glycerin-based spray helps to calm and nourish the scalp. After shampooing it out, chamomile’s internal benefits continue to support the body’s natural healing processes. By promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation, chamomile helps to ensure that the scalp remains less prone to irritation, even after the spray is rinsed away.
Application Method:
Using peppermint, lavender, and chamomile in glycerin-based extracts, sprayed on the scalp and left for 20 minutes, allows the active ingredients to penetrate and soothe the scalp. The glycerin helps lock in moisture and deliver the benefits deeply into the scalp. After rinsing with a clarifying shampoo, these herbs continue to work internally, addressing the root causes of scalp irritation and promoting long-term scalp health. This method combines immediate topical relief with internal support to prevent future itching and maintain a balanced, healthy scalp.
Learn more about the herbs within Cynple Apothecary!
Mmm this makes me want to make some rosemary chamomile tea. Thank you Cyn. I also noticed my scalp seems more sensitive after my hair cut and wearing it curly. It’s definitely more difficult to do oil pulling with this texture than straight. Practice makes perfect!