Dry Scalp? Oily Scalp? Dandruff That Never Ends? Here's What Your Scalp Is Trying to Tell You

Dry Scalp? Oily Scalp? Dandruff That Never Ends? Here's What Your Scalp Is Trying to Tell You

“Why do I get pimples on my scalp?” “Why is my hair falling out in patches?” “Why does my scalp feel itchy even after washing?”

If you’ve asked yourself any of these questions lately, you’re not alone. Scalp problems are more common than you think — and they’re not always caused by poor hygiene. From seborrheic dermatitis to alopecia areata and scalp acne, your scalp may be trying to signal an underlying issue. Let's break down the most common scalp conditions, what causes them, and which ingredients you should look for (or avoid!) in your hair care products.

 

 

Persistent Dandruff & Seborrheic Dermatitis

We’re not talking about the occasional dry flakes. We mean the stubborn, greasy dandruff that keeps coming back no matter how many times you wash your hair — often accompanied by redness, itchiness, and irritation. This condition is likely seborrheic dermatitis, a chronic inflammatory scalp disorder caused by an overgrowth of yeast (Malassezia) and an imbalance in your skin's oil production.

⚠️ Common Symptoms:

  • Yellowish, greasy flakes that stick to the scalp

  • Itchy, inflamed skin around hairline, ears, eyebrows

  • Flaky buildup that returns quickly after washing

 

 

💥 Other Related Scalp Issues

1. Scalp Acne

Just like your face, your scalp has oil glands too. When excess sebum, product buildup, and bacteria clog your hair follicles, it can cause:

  • Painful pimples on the scalp

  • Itchiness and tenderness

  • Post-acne dark spots or scarring on the scalp

2. Alopecia Areata (Sudden Hair Loss / Bald Patches)

This is an autoimmune condition where your body attacks its own hair follicles. It often presents as:

  • Round bald patches on the scalp

  • Sudden, unexplained hair loss

  • Thinning in localized areas

While not caused by dandruff directly, chronic inflammation from conditions like seborrheic dermatitis can contribute to hair shedding over time.

 

 

What Causes These Scalp Issues?

  • Fungal overgrowth (Malassezia) on the scalp

  • Product buildup from shampoos containing harsh surfactants (like SLS)

  • Oily scalp + humidity, especially in tropical climates like Malaysia or Indonesia

  • Stress, hormone imbalances, and immune system reactions

  • Over-washing or under-washing your hair

  • Using irritating hair products (fragrance, alcohol, etc.)

 

 

🌿 The Hero Ingredient You Need: Piroctone Olamine

You’ve heard of ketoconazole and zinc pyrithione, but piroctone olamine is the underrated scalp savior you should know about.

Why It Works:

  • Antifungal properties: Targets the root cause of dandruff — Malassezia.

  • Soothes inflammation: Reduces redness and irritation from seborrheic dermatitis.

  • Milder than ketoconazole: Effective but gentle, making it suitable for long-term use.

Piroctone olamine is clinically proven to reduce dandruff, itchiness, and improve hair density over time.

 

 

🚫 What to Avoid: SLS in Your Shampoo

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is a common foaming agent in shampoos, but it can strip your scalp of natural oils and cause:

  • Dryness and irritation

  • Increased oil production (rebound effect)

  • Worsening of seborrheic dermatitis or scalp acne

✅ Try switching to:

  • Sulfate-free shampoos with piroctone olamine, salicylic acid, or tea tree oil

  • Gentle cleansers with soothing ingredients like aloe vera or panthenol

 

 

📝 Final Thoughts

Scalp care is the new skincare. If you’re dealing with uncontrollable dandruff, greasy buildup, scalp acne, or bald spots, don’t ignore the signs. Start by choosing shampoos and treatments with active ingredients like piroctone olamine, and avoid harsh chemicals like SLS that strip your scalp barrier. Our recommendation product is Ivy & Lily Ocean Breeze which contains active ingredients like Piroctone Olamine, plus it is a non-SLS shampoo which is safe for sensitive skin, pregnant women, and breastfeeding moms.

Taking care of your scalp isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s the foundation of healthy hair growth.

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