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Remedies for Itchy Sore Scalp From Alopecia

Alopecia is the medical term for a loss of hair, generally from the head. Those afflicted more commonly refer to is as baldness. Hair loss may be rapid or gradual, but is only noticed when a significant amount of hair fails to replace what has been lost. To make matters worse, alopecia is frequently accompanied by itchy scalp and sore, tender skin in the affected area. To relieve these symptoms, some remedies recommend applying one or all of the following oils to the scalp, naturally reducing inflammation and discomfort while diminishing the urge to scratch.

  1. Neem

    • Neem oil is taken from the mature leaves of the neem tree, an evergreen which is commonly found in India. The oil nourishes and soothes dry skin, and the chemicals within the oil reduce inflammation, itching and irritation. With regular applications, those suffering from alopecia may even see re-growth of hair from previously damaged follicles. Neem oil is very strong and should be diluted by mixing one teaspoon of neem into one teaspoon of a mild carrier oil, such as olive oil or almond oil prior to application on the skin. Once diluted, apply directly to the affected area with your fingertips, massaging gently until all of the oil has been absorbed. Wait 15 minutes and then sponge the area with warm water to remove surface oils.

      Alternatively, 15 to 20 drops of neem oil can be added to one to two tablespoons of shampoo for an easy daily application.

    Lavender

    • Lavender oil can provide a soothing, aromatic solution to painful, itchy scalp. The essential oil of this garden favorite has natural antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can greatly benefit alopecia patients. Simply mix 10 drops of lavender essential oil into ½ cup of warm water. Briskly blend the two and quickly apply the solution to the affected area, as the natural tendency is for the substances to separate. Leave it on for 15 minutes and then shampoo it away.

    Rosemary

    • Not only does rosemary oil smell great, it moisturizes and helps to repair damaged skin. Additionally, it increases circulation at the application site, which helps to stimulate sluggish hair follicles, enhancing hair growth. To amplify the effect, combine rosemary oil with lavender oil, mixing five drops of each into your normal shampoo. Try chopping up one teaspoon of dried rosemary if you don't have rosemary oil on hand. Pour one cup of boiling water over the herb and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes. Strain the herbs from the water and use the "tea" on your itchy skin.

    Tea Tree

    • One of nature's most powerful antifungal, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory topical treatments, tea tree oil is famous for its beneficial, healing properties. The analgesic effect reduces pain at the application site and the fragrance is refreshing and woodsy. To use tea tree oil to treat your scalp, either combine 1 tsp. of tea tree oil with 1 tbsp. of avocado or almond oil and dab it on the affected area with a cotton ball, or mix 10 drops into a small amount of shampoo and use it to wash your hair.

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