Having to reach up and scratch your scalp is distracting and frustrating, and if you rub too much, you could end up with sore, painful broken skin. An itchy scalp, also known as scalp pruritus, has a wide range of causes. Keep reading to find out what can cause the itch, and discover the soothing, all-natural products to calm and balance your delicate scalp.

7 Reasons for an Itchy Scalp

An itchy scalp often comes in the form of dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. For some people, an itchy scalp can be temporary, with itchy patches subsiding quickly, but for others, it can be an ongoing problem. If you’re struggling with an itchy scalp, here are some possible causes.

1. Dandruff

Dr. Anna Chacon, a board-certified dermatologist and published author based in Miami, Florida, told VEGAMOUR, “Dandruff is a common cause of itching. When dandruff irritates the scalp, the outer skin layer sheds to combat the inflammation, causing it to feel itchy. Dandruff is caused by dead cells of the skin, which drop off the scalp and appear as white flakes on the hair.”

The development of a fungus known as Malassezia yeast is the primary cause of dandruff. Malassezia relies on sebum and the scalp’s natural oils to nourish the dandruff-causing fungus. So even if you don’t see noticeable flaking on your scalp, you might still develop dandruff if your scalp is unhealthy. Severe dandruff is also called seborrheic dermatitis, and if the problem persists, it’s worth checking in with a dermatologist to get specialist care.

What it feels and looks like: White flakes and a near-constant itchy scalp.

Causes: An overly oily scalp or a buildup of dead skin cells, styling products or Malassezia

To get relief: You might also try using natural remedies such as peppermint oil or tea tree oil with a bacterial or fungal infection with seborrheic dermatitis. Menthol essential oil and peppermint oil can have a particularly soothing effect on the skin if you suffer from seborrheic dermatitis.

2. Scalp Psoriasis

Psoriasis commonly appears on the elbows, around the knees and along the body’s trunk, but did you know it can also show up on your scalp?

“A flare-up on the scalp occurs in approximately 50% of people with plaque psoriasis,” said Dr. Velusamy MP of iCliniq. “Reddish patches, dandruff-like flaking, silvery-white scale and a dry scalp are all possible. Scalp psoriasis is frequently itchy, with itch ranging from mild to severe. Skin conditions, such as scalp psoriasis, impact the hair follicles as patches cover the scalp, preventing hair from growing as it should. As a result, those affected can experience hair loss, worsening if the flaky skin is hand-picked off.”

What it feels and looks like: You’re itching one specific spot, your skin feels raised and you notice scaly patches.

Causes: Scalp psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that tends to be genetic. Stress, a weak immune system, hormonal changes and dry weather can exacerbate the situation.

To get relief: Seek advice from a dermatologist who might suggest shampoo with coal tar or salicylic acid to soothe the area. One study also found that zinc pyrithione can significantly reduce the itch intensity. Apple cider vinegar may be effective in relieving a psoriasis-related itchy scalp because it has antifungal properties. The National Psoriasis Foundation suggests diluting one part organic apple cider vinegar in one part water and applying it to the scalp. Rinse your scalp with water after the solution has dried. Avoid this remedy if you have open wounds or your skin is cracked or bleeding.

More: Scalp Psoriasis vs. Dandruff — What’s the Difference?

3. Allergic Reactions

“An itchy, dry and flaky scalp could signify that you must rinse the shampoo out of the hair more thoroughly,” advised Velusamy. “Leaving shampoo on the scalp can irritate. An itchy scalp could also be due to allergic contact dermatitis. People who dye their hair frequently experience this. The culprit is frequently a dye ingredient called para-phenylenediamine (PPD), which is found in black hair dyes. It could also be an allergic reaction to a shampoo, conditioner or other product that comes into contact with the scalp.”

What it feels and looks like: Your scalp might feel unbearably itchy, oily or greasy. In addition, if you use many hair products, you might further irritate the area.

Causes: Various ingredients in some hair products can irritate. If you’ve started using a new product, that could be the culprit.

To get relief: Consider non-toxic, moisturizing hair products with anti-inflammatory properties.

4. Head Lice

Velusamy said that you can get head lice by having close contact with someone who has it or by sharing items that they’ve used, such as a hat, brush or comb.

What it feels and looks like: Head lice can create a creepy, crawly, itchy feeling all over the scalp. Lice feed on human blood and lay their eggs near the roots.

Causes: As mentioned, sharing a hairbrush or coming into close contact with someone with lice will likely be the cause because lice are highly contagious.

To get relief: Use permethrin shampoo. You’ll also need to comb out the lice and the eggs to ensure the scalp is clear. If the problem persists, discuss the issue with a doctor. Tea tree oil may also help with a lice-related itchy scalp.

5. Actinic Keratosis

Actinic keratosis, aka sun damage, can lead to growths and dry, scaly patches across the scalp. These legions are often considered pre-cancerous, so you must get any signs checked out with a doctor.

What it feels and looks like: The skin can feel dry, scaly and like sandpaper. Patches are usually 1cm to 2cm in size, and the color ranges from pink to red or brown.

Causes: This skin condition grows slowly and can develop over time due to consistent sun exposure. It is often found on the scalp, ears, lips and the back of the head.

To get relief: Reduce sun exposure and use sunscreen daily. Talk to your doctor about prescription creams and gels. You might also discuss freezing the patches or even removal surgery.

6. Scalp Dysesthesia

Scalp dysesthesia is actually a cervical spine condition that can cause itching around the scalp.

What it feels and looks like: This condition can be very itchy, and sufferers might also experience a burning sensation.

Causes: If you have ever experienced a traumatic head or neck injury that impacts the spinal cord and then experienced itching, you could have this neurological condition. It’s a nerve-related itch that can signal physical or psychological distress.

To get relief: Speak to a doctor and don’t panic. This condition is usually seen in elderly patients, and the key treatment is a low dose of antidepressants.

7. Atopica dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is an inflammatory skin condition commonly known as eczema. It can occur anywhere on the body, including the scalp, and it’s very itchy.

What it feels and looks like: You’ll notice itchiness around the scalp, and you might spot some redness. 

Causes: Atopic dermatitis is usually hereditary, and you might experience it if other family members have it too.

To get relief: Speak to a dermatologist to ensure a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. 

Nourish Your Scalp

An itchy scalp is deeply irritating and can be a symptom of many different conditions. You can use at-home remedies to resolve the issue, but if the itching is severe or you experience broken skin or open wounds, consult with your doctor.

Healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp. To keep your scalp balanced, healthy and itch-free from day to day, commit to using calming, natural products that remove buildup, moisturize, protect and soothe!

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Author

Sophie O’Kelly

Author

Sophie O’Kelly

Sophie O’Kelly is a well-being writer with over a decade of experience working with international beauty and fashion brands. She recently qualified as a mental health therapist, teaches yoga in her spare time and writes about the psychological and physical importance of solid and ongoing self-care. She currently lives in London, England.

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For six months or so jeggings has been a hard find, an expensive endeavor or an unflattering experience. Now I am happy to report that anyone who wishes to try out and purchase this legging jean should stop into Gap. They have six washes to please everyone, an incredibly flattering fit, a refreshing range of sizes (00-20 with tall and petite options) and did I mention they are yum-yum comfortable? They are, I stopped in yesterday to try them on.

Some perks to mention for those on the fence about jeggings, this is a thick yet stretchy material that will cover any skin flaws and reveal svelte legs and a tight ass. I couldn't believe how thin I looked in them. The waist isn't very low either. It almost reaches my belly button in a sexy retro way. I also like that you can get away with wearing shorter tops with them, unlike traditional leggings.

When buying or ordering these babies, order a size smaller than usual because the fabric is already stretchy and it will stretch a whole size more. For instance, I have a 30-inch waist and I ended up having to get a 28-inch waist because I could put my fist down the 30-inch jeans. My fist shouldn't be able to go down my pants, on many levels.

Now here is the problem with walking into a Gap store to buy the denim legging, at least my local Gap. There are not a lot of sizes available including the standard run of 0-10. So, I was forced to buy the size I wanted (6/28) online, which I don't like to do; but since this time I enjoyed a lovely online discount, I shan't complain too much. What I will complain about is the uninformed and slightly insolent customer service that I run into there.

Tidbit about Gap: Gap generally has a scant, unstylish selection of clothing for women, but two to three times a year there is a timeless must-have piece that deserves attention. These jeggings are one of them.

Global chemical and ingredient distributor Univar Solutions has been appointed as distributor of Cabot Corporation’s specialty carbon black products for the plastics and batteries markets in Brazil.

The agreement builds on the companies’ existing relationship. Cabot’s specialty carbon black products are used for multiple applications in the automotive market, including helping improve the efficiency, durability, performance and lifetime of hybrid and electric vehicle batteries. In addition to batteries, the versatility of carbon black products make them well-suited for other specialty applications such as plastics, consumer electronics and industrial parts, delivering value through a range of functionalities including colour, ultraviolet (UV) protection, surface smoothness and conductivity.

“As we continue growing our ingredients and specialties business in Latin America, it’s critical that we partner with world-class suppliers who are also committed to helping meet customers’ product performance needs while keeping sustainability top-of-mind. The addition of Cabot’s specialty carbon black products to our expansive product portfolio allows us to better serve those looking to innovate, grow and differentiate their business,” said Jorge Buckup, president of Latin America for Univar Solutions.

“Customers will benefit”

“We’re excited about our collaboration with Cabot in Brazil, which further expands a key supplier relationship and adds to our product offering to our customer base,” said Chris Fitzgerald, global vice president, CASE, Rubber and Plastic Additives for Univar Solutions. “We are confident our customers will benefit from the consistent focus we bring within the plastic compounding and battery markets, backed by strong local and technical support and commercial excellence.”

The global chemical company OQ Chemicals has resumed production at its sites in Oberhausen and Marl. The failure of a supplier’s synthesis gas plant had previously had previously led to OQ Chemicals having to declare “force majeure” for certain products.

During the temporary interruption of operations, OQ Chemicals implemented strategic improvements to optimise production processes, including data flows and workflows in plant management, operational technology and engineering. The company is thus increasing the efficiency and reliability of its plants and driving forward digitalisation and process development in line with its corporate strategy.

“We are delighted to be able to ramp up our plants in Germany again,” said Albrecht Schwerin, COO of OQ Chemicals. The unforeseeable shutdown was not exactly easy for OQ Chemicals, as the company has reported high customer demand since the beginning of the year. As an alternative, customers were supplied from other OQ Chemicals sites to minimise the impact on their operations and supply chains.

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Sophistication and elegance are hand-in-hand in our stylish Rose Gold Mercury Tumbler Jars. Warmer than gold, rose gold is found in aesthetics ranging from glamorous to vintage modern to romantic.

The rose gold mercury finish on the outside of the glass gives the tumblers a shiny, speckled effect. Metallic silver on the inside of the tumbler adds a beautiful contrast and depth, and a soft, entrancing glow shines through the speckled finish once the candle is lit.

We also carry the Straight Sided Tumbler Jar in additional colors and sizes.

Candle Maker’s Note:
If you typically wick our Straight Sided Tumbler or similar tumblers by sight alone, note that the reflective interior of this container can make eyeballing the center of these tumblers difficult. A wick setter is recommended.

Looking for a lid?
Our straight sided tumbler jars have the most versatile lid options. 

• Our Metal Flat Lids in rose gold, silver, bronze, gold, matte black, and black lend a modern, sleek aesthetic. 
• Sustainable and stylish, our 3.25″ Bamboo Lids add a contemporary touch. 
• Glass Tumbler Lids in black, amber, or white provide an upscale feel that’s anything but ordinary. 
• Appeal to both rustic and modern senses with the natural beauty of 3.25″ Pine Wooden Lids in brown, black, or natural. 

How much wax will it hold? 
See this information in the Properties section of this page. Learn more about container wax weight and volume.

Looking for a wick suggestion?
Check out our wick guide to see recommendations! Our recommendations are estimates and should be used as a starting point for your own burn testing.

Looking for labels?
Put the finishing touch on your candles with the perfect product label from Avery WePrint. Browse designs, create your own, and take 10% off all label orders!

• Already have an idea of what you’d like to do? Head to avery.com to get started.
• Not sure what label size or shape to use? Check out Avery’s Label Sizes Chart.
• Looking for labeling tips or want to see the latest in design trends? Explore Avery’s Candle Label Inspiration & Ideas for your candle line.

Need packaging for this jar? We have options!

• Try our Kraft or White Straight Sided Tumbler Boxes! We recommend using either a lid, OR a tumbler box, not both.
• For an upscale, tactile experience, try our Luxe Soft Touch Tumbler Boxes in Gray, White, or Black with or without a Metal Flat Lid, 3.25″ Bamboo Lid, or Glass Tumbler Lid. Our 3.25″ Pine Wooden Lids do not fit inside the box. 
• Want a sophisticated and recyclable option? Try our Black, White, or Kraft Paper Candle Tubes with or without lids.

Container Measurements
These containers are blown glass, which means that the container dimensions may vary slightly due to the nature of the manufacturing process. Tolerance allowance is as follows:

• Height +/-0.08” (+/-0.2 cm)
• Diameter +/-0.06″ (+/-0.15 cm)

Need shipping boxes?
Flush Packaging offers durable shipping boxes custom fit to a wide variety of CandleScience vessels—ensuring your finished candles get delivered safely.

Wholesale Ordering
View our wholesale page for more information on ordering in bulk.

Imported

Container Properties

Material GlassFinish ElectroplatedTransparency MercuryWax Weight (to Fill Line) 8.50 oz (240.97 g)Volume (to Overflow) 11.90 fl oz (338.12 mL)Height 3.39" (8.61 cm)Top Inside Diameter 3.03" (7.70 cm)Top Outside Diameter 3.20" (8.13 cm)Label Format RectangularLabel Placement SideLabel Width 10.00" (25.40 cm)Label Height 3.00" (7.62 cm)Prop 65 Warning No

A starch and glucose producer in South Africa fitted Vesconite wear-resistant deflectors to its centrifugal pumps in 2019, and substantial maintenance, component, and capital-cost savings resulted.

Deflectors are cylindrical rings placed at either end of the bearing assembly around the shaft. In this application, they fit at the end of oil lip seals to prevent the ingress of water and dust.

The producer had previously not used deflectors but in the food environment, in which the pumps are hosed down as part of hygiene practices, it was noted that the life of bearings could be improved with deflectors being installed.

Pump solutions provider SAM Engineering proposed deflectors and a cost-effective material that would protect the bearing assembly against dust and water was sought for. On most (sites/ pro-cess plants), fitting of deflectors are generally overlooked, as lip seals serve the purpose of retaining lubricant in the bearing housing and prevent water and dust ingress; however, installing deflectors provided added protection.

SAM Engineering reports that the Vesconite deflector is likely to improve the life of bearings and decrease the likelihood of mechanical seal replacement and, most importantly, protect the bearing assembly, the cost of which can be considerable.

The bearing assembly totals 30% of the cost of this chemical-process pump, so the Vesconite deflectors could be said to protect 30% of pump value, the pump solution company states.

Vesconite Bearings
www.vesconite.com

This is a very strong, thick glass jar and complies with ASTM 2179 AND 2147 testing methods. (Ensures glass is able to withstand heat and has no cracks or fractures)

Measurements: Height 7.5cm, Width 7.5cm.

Approximate Volume: 150mls

Finish: Black inner spray*

We recommend 2mm Cotton Wicks for this jar.

* As theses candle jars have undergone a water soluble paint finish, (rather than a solvent finish) they are more prone to scratching, so please take care when handling the jars. Washing, soaking and immersing the candle jars in soapy water will soften and deteriorate the finish. Use only a DRY – soft cloth (microfibre is best) to remove dust, prior to filling. The water soluble paint finish performs just like coloured glass during burning.

Whoever and whomever are both pronouns. Choosing which one
to use in a sentence, however, has been a challenge for many English speakers
and writers. You could’ve sworn these two are always interchangeable.

.

If you’re one of those people who are still confuse about
which one to use, just remember this simple rule:

• he/she = whoever
• him/her  =
  whomever

Whoever vs. Whomever Explained

Whoever

Keep in mind that whoever
is a subject pronoun. Its role is to be the subject of a verb. Here are some
examples:

• Give the flyers to whoever asks for them. (Whoever
  is the subject of the verb asks)
• Whoever
  is ready can go first. (Whoever is
  the subject of the verb is. We can
  verify it by saying “He is ready”)
• My boss will hire whoever is nice to him.
• The coach will kick out whoever skips basic training.

.

You can also use whoever
as a subject complement.

• Whoever you are, I like you already.
• Whoever it was did not leave any fingerprint.
• Whoever he was appeared lonely.

Whomever

Whomever is an object pronoun. It follows a verb or
proposition. Examples:

• You can marry whomever you love. (Whomever is the object of the verb love . “You love him, so you can marry him.”)
• Whomever
  Jack chooses is OK to me. (Whomever
  is the object of the verb chooses. “Jack chooses her and it’s OK to me.”)
• I will be happy to welcome whomever you hire today.  (Whomever is the object of the verb hire. “You hire him/her”)

Just get rid of them

Still can’t tell which one to use? Just remove
whoever/whomever altogether. Rewrite your sentences so you won’t need either.

.

Rewrite this:

.

Give this memo to whoever/whomever at the legal department
downstairs.

.

Into this:

.

Give this memo to somebody at the legal department
downstairs.

.

And this:

.

Whoever/whomever eat my
donuts, you’re in big trouble.

.

Into this:

.

The one who eats my
donuts is in big trouble.

.

See?  Problem’s
solved.

.

Anyway, if grammar is not your strong point and you have
more than just whoever/whomever to think about, just get some help. We’re
talking about using the online
grammar and spelling checker. It’s free and easy to use so you really don’t
have any excuse for not using it.

The Future of Peptide-based Drugs
David J. Craik, David P. Fairlie, Spiros Liras, David Price
Chem. Biol. Drug Design, 2013, 81, 136–147.
DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.12055

The suite of currently used drugs can be divided into two categories – traditional ‘small molecule’ drugs with typical molecular weights of <500 Da but with oral bioavailability, and much larger ‘biologics’ typically >5000 Da that are not orally bioavailable and need to be delivered via injection. Due to their small size, conventional small molecule drugs may suffer from reduced target selectivity that often ultimately manifests in human side-effects, whereas protein therapeutics tend to be exquisitely specific for their targets due to many more interactions with them, but this comes at a cost of low bioavailability, poor membrane permeability, and metabolic instability. The time has now come to reinvestigate new drug leads that fit between these two molecular weight extremes, with the goal of combining advantages of small molecules (cost, conformational restriction, membrane permeability, metabolic stability, oral bioavailability) with those of proteins (natural components, target specificity, high potency). This article uses selected examples of peptides to highlight the importance of peptide drugs, some potential new opportunities for their exploitation, and some difficult challenges ahead in this field.

Here's the lowdown on how to subscribe to Allure's print edition for more beauty routines, recommendations, and features.

Lucy Hale is known for her thick, luscious, and highly photogenic eyebrows — but as it turns out, the former Pretty Little Liars star wasn't always a fan of the bold brow look. We know because, this weekend, she shared several throwback photos of herself on Instagram, including one from her teenage years in which she had pencil-thin brows á la the infamous '90s beauty trend. And well, we won't lie, folks: It's a little shocking to see Hale without her signature arches.

The Almay ambassador took to her Instagram Stories on Friday night to share the aforementioned photo with fans. As you can see, it's a black-and-white number that features Hale with a moody facial expression, long flowing hair, and barely-there brows. "Omg, look at my brows," Hale can be heard saying on her Story, followed by, "Yikes…"

It's definitely wild to see the actress without her the dramatic brows she's become famous for, and yet, it's also cool to see how far they've come over the years. Of course, we have to imagine Hale has received a slew of DMs from fans and friends who are just as mind-blown by the throwback photo as we are. It just goes to show how much impact brows can have on a person's whole look.

Ever wonder how Hale got so blessed in the brow department? In 2017, Hale revealed she inherited her gorgeous bushy brows from her father in an adorable selfie with him. "Ya wonder where I got my brows from?