Your Girl Knows’ product recommendations are handpicked by our editorial team and given the seal of approval by Harman herself. When you buy something through our affiliate links, we might earn a little commission—at no extra cost to you! We only recommend products we genuinely love. Please read my Disclosure Policy for additional information.

You know that feeling. You’re sitting in a meeting, out running errands, or just minding your business on the couch, and suddenly it’s like a thousand tiny bugs are doing the cha-cha on your scalp.

You’re scratching away like it’s a life-or-death situation, praying nobody’s noticing your little (okay, maybe not-so-little) itch session. Yikes!

I know you need a solution asap, girl, and I’m here to take it all under control 😉

Why does your scalp itch in the first place?

How to Get Rid of Itchy Scalp Before You Literally Lose Your Mind (and your edges)

Well, there are tons of culprits that could be to blame.

It could be something as simple as product buildup from your favorite dry shampoo or the shampoo you’re currently using that’s too harsh.

Or, it could be more complicated, like dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, or even allergies. Stress, diet, or a dry winter might also be adding to the itchiness.

But good news, i’ve got just the remedies for itchy scalp!

1. Double Cleanse Scalp

I can almost bet my last dollar that you’re not washing your hair correctly. Do you know you’re supposed to clean your scalp twice every time? Yep.

Start with a gentle cleansing shampoo to remove product buildup and dirt. Follow up with a hydrating or medicated shampoo that works deeper to calm irritation.

I love using a clarifying shampoo first if my scalp is extra itchy, smelly or I’ve got a bit much dandruff that week.

Pro Tip: Use your fingertips (NOT your nails!) to gently massage your scalp to boost circulation and avoid scratching irritation.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse

If Grandma swears by apple cider vinegar, it’s for a reason! ACV has antibacterial and antifungal properties that can neutralize itch-causing bacteria while restoring scalp pH.

Dilute 2 tablespoons of ACV in 1 cup of water and pour it over your scalp post-shampoo. Trust me, you’ll feel the soothing magic instantly!

Bonus Tip: Hate the smell? Add a drop of lavender or tea tree essential oil for a fresh, spa-like scent.

3. glycolic acid rinse

What is it that glycolic acid cannot do? I’ve used it for ingrown hair dark underarms, acne, dandruff and even itchy scalp.

It gently sloughs away dead skin cells and clears up stubborn buildup, leaving your scalp itch-free and happy.

Just don’t go overboard! Use a glycolic acid rinse once a week and follow with a hydrating conditioner for balance.

You can either look for scalp care products containing glycolic acid (like shampoos and treatments), but my favorite way is by directly applying The Ordinary’s glycolic acid toner onto the scalp and shampooing normally after 30 minutes.

4. Finish with a Cold Rinse

Oh, I love my hot water showers, but not everything I love is always right. 😉 Basically, hot water opens up your pores, not only on your skin but also on your head. And if you don’t close them with a cold water rinse, you’re obviously prone to hairfall, smelly scalp, and so many more scalp issues.

And of course, it also locks in moisture, along with reducing scalp inflammation and irritation. Think of it as a refreshing cherry on top of your scalp-care sundae!

Hack: If you can’t brave a full cold rinse, tilt your head and just rinse the scalp. Guess lazy minds do find a way out, lol.

5. Yogurt + a Pinch of Boric Acid

Wait, yogurt on your head? Hear me out. Yogurt is an absolute dream for your scalp because it’s packed with probiotics and hydration magic. When you combine it with a teensy-tiny pinch of boric acid, you get anti-fungal properties tackling flaky, itchy zones head-on.

Gently massage this soothing mask into your scalp, leave it for 20 minutes (Not one minute more!), and rinse it off with lukewarm water.

Pro Tip: Use plain, unsweetened yogurt (none of that fruity stuff, please). It’s less mess and more hydration! And remember, you only need a pinch of boric acid; please don’t go overboard.

6. Tea Tree Oil + Jojoba Oil

Is there anything tea tree oil can’t do? This powerful oil is a game-changer for scalps dealing with itchiness caused by bacteria or fungus.

Combine a few drops of tea tree oil with jojoba oil, which is lightweight and mimics your scalp’s natural oils (hello, balance). Rub the mixture gently onto your scalp overnight or for at least 30 minutes before washing.

Pro Tip: Don’t go overboard with tea tree oil; it’s potent! Mix 3-4 drops with 2 tablespoons of jojoba oil for best results. Oh, and make sure to test it on your wrist first to avoid any irritation surprises!

If you don’t have jojoba oil, try mixing 3-4 drops of tea tree oil with your shampoo and washing as normal. It’s easy and can work just fine. Make sure you’re cleaning thoroughly. A scalp massager will just make it better!

7. Onion Juice + Ginger Combo

Okay, I know this sounds a little wild, but trust me on this one. Onion juice is a powerhouse for soothing scalps. It’s all thanks to its sulfur compounds, which reduce inflammation and encourage better blood circulation (which means healthier hair, too!).

The ginger? It adds an extra kick of anti-inflammatory goodness. Blend equal parts onion and ginger juice, massage it gently onto your scalp, and leave it for 30 minutes before rinsing it out. Yes, the smell is intense—but the results are so worth it!

Pro Tip: Worried about the smell? Rinse your hair with a mix of water and a splash of apple cider vinegar after you’re done to neutralize odors.

8. Switch to Sulfate-Free & Fragrance-Free Shampoo

Sometimes, the answer lies in your shower. Many mainstream shampoos are loaded with sulfates and synthetic fragrances that strip your scalp of its natural oils. (Yikes!)

Sulfate-free and fragrance-free shampoos are a gentler option for keeping your scalp clean while avoiding unnecessary irritation. It’s like giving your scalp a much-needed hug instead of a slap!

Pro Tip: When shopping, look for shampoos labeled as “gentle,” “sensitive scalp,” or “dermatologist-tested.” Bonus points if they also include natural soothing ingredients like aloe vera or oatmeal!

Itchy Scalp FAQ Guide

Why does my scalp itch so badly?

Your scalp might be crying out for help due to dryness, dandruff, allergies, or even product buildup. It could also be a sign of an underlying condition, so don’t ignore it!

Does lemon stop hair itching?

Yes! Lemon’s acidity can help balance your scalp’s pH levels and reduce itchiness. Plus, it smells so fresh and zingy!

Is applying lemon directly on hair harmful?

Sure, it’s tempting, but hold up! Lemon juice can make your scalp sensitive to sunlight, so dilute it with water or mix it with oils to play it safe.

What can I drink to stop itching?

Stay hydrated! Water, green tea, and even coconut water can help from the inside out. Bonus points for foods rich in omega-3s!

How can I stop my scalp from itching at home?

A soothing scalp massage with coconut oil or tea tree oil is a lifesaver. Or, whip up a DIY mask with aloe vera to cool things down. Your scalp will thank you!

Is coconut oil good for an itchy scalp?

Absolutely! Coconut oil is like a hug for your scalp. It moisturizes, fights bacteria, and leaves your hair glossy. Talk about multitasking!

Got more questions? Don’t scratch your head (literally), just ask! ✨

How to Get Rid of Itchy Scalp Before You Literally Lose Your Mind (and your edges)

Why does your scalp itch in the first place?