There are several potential causes of a dry scalp. These include washing the hair too frequently, not drinking enough water, and having a reaction to harsh hair care products. Health conditions such as psoriasis could also result in a dry scalp. However, a person may be able to treat their dry scalp at home.

Although they may not work for everyone, the following are some potential home remedies that may have some merit when it comes to treating a dry scalp.

Coconut oil

Coconut oil has some recognition in the medical community as being an effective moisturizer.

A review of research found that coconut oil is safe and effective in treating dry skin, which may indicate that it could also be useful in treating scalp dryness. However, another study showed that although coconut oil did not have any ill effects, there was no noticeable difference between the scalps of people who used the oil and those who did not. In this study, the researchers compared the hair care practices of 240 medical students.

Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is a popular essential oil that lots of people use for its many potential health benefits. According to a research review in the journal Clinical Microbiology Reviews, tea tree oil may have antifungal, antiseptic, and antibiotic properties that could help with scalp dryness.

Aloe vera

Some people use aloe vera for relief from sunburn and dry skin. Research suggests that people may experience relief with aloe vera due to its anti-inflammatory effects.

When a person applies it to the scalp, aloe vera may help alleviate the itching associated with a dry scalp. It may also help with moisturizing the scalp. An old study comparing the use of aloe vera gel with a placebo in 44 participants with seborrheic dermatitis — which is a condition that causes scaly, flaky skin — found that the aloe vera gel was more effective in reducing scaliness and itching.

Olive oil

In the diet, olive oil has displayed anti-inflammatory properties. Some research suggests that these properties could also be present when a person applies it to the skin.

A review of research notes that olive oil has helped boost wound healing and skin regrowth in animal studies, largely through its anti-inflammatory effects. Skin inflammation can lead to dry skin.

Mashed bananas

Witch hazel may also help with the symptoms of a dry scalp, such as itchiness.

According to some research, the nutrients in bananas may provide effective scalp treatment.

One research paper, for example, suggests that the potassium, oils, and vitamins in bananas can help moisturize the scalp, treat dandruff, and improve hair health. The authors state that people can try this natural remedy by making their own banana hair conditioner at home.