Very dry scalp

[QuakingQuiche]

I don't have dandruff (at least I don't think so) but have very dry tiny flakes on my scalp (not itchy at all and anti-dandruff shampoos don't clear it) (like a fairly thick powdery accumulation of dry skin on my scalp plus my hair is also dry).

In the last 3.5 months, I've not used any hot tools (blow dryer, hair straightener etc.) on it at all, don't over-wash, use deep conditioner on the bottom half of my hair.

I've tried using shampoo in the past which made my hair like straw-dry even when applied to scalp only so I've just been using conditioner on the bottom half and nothing but warm water on my scalp (followed by a cold rinse sometimes).

I've always had a icky scalp so not sure what I can do :( I have very very thick hair too.

Have you tried the Body Shop ginger shampoo? And rinsing with cold water?

Two ideas here both tried and tested by me...

Get a scalp brush. Use this to massage and really get the crap off your scalp when washing. www.superdrug.com/Hair-Brushes-%26-Combs/Hair-Brushes/Denman-D6-Shampoo-%26-Shower-Massage-Brush/p/438253?gclid=Cj0KCQjwpfHzBRCiARIsAHHzyZqZU_fte38prLWAlt9W6vJkQyqnk7QF2mYaEvAVMWTdiSuqj0s9Nv0aAqbTEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds

Use a scalp scrub. Frank Body does one that is gorgeous and really works.

Sounds like your scalp is dry and unable to shift the accumulated build up of dead skin. Both of these work xxx

Soak your scalp in oil, wrap and leave overnight - I like Jasmine but any would do the trick. I have also recently discovered pink hair and scalp mud from ESPA which is fantastic for my hair!

Use a gentle shampoo OP

Maybe speak to your doctor if this is a new condition

There are scalp treatments and oils you can get. Sorry can’t recommend any

I second scalp brush, I always thought I had dandruff as a kid but now I realise it's just a dry scalp that I'm not dislodging properly, Lee Stafford do a really nice one, I was gonna get a denman one but the spikes look painful, I've been using it for about a month now aand I only get the dry flakes when I don't use it, though be aware that the first time you use it you're gonna wanna double shampoo your hair, once with the brush and then a second time to help all the skin get out of your hair.

Shampoo brush/scan massager work wonders, I’ve just got a cheap one off eBay and if feels amazing using it and deffo less flakes!

I've had this problem too, OP. I found that using shampoos that are sulphate-free made a big difference to my scalp. I think OGX are the most readily-available, and can be pricey but you often find good 2-for-1 deals at supermarkets. I think I'll also try @Frankie's suggestion!

I have recently bought the L'oreal botanics shampoo and conditioner, which is meant for sensitive scalps. I must say my scalp is not itching and burning like it usually is, so might be worth a try. It was half price at Superdrug. I think I might buy one of these scalp brushes too.