Chronically Itchy Scalp

[Saint Michael]

My scalp has been itchy for a long time. Several years ago I had dandruff and used some sort of shampoo to get rid of it, then switched to regular shampoo. The dandruff has never really come back, but when I run my fingernails across my scalp little bits of dead skin always come off, and lots of them. Lots. If I don't wash my hair every day my scalp itches on the off-days, but I have tried various hair washing intervals and different shampoos/conditioners to see if it's just a moisture/dryness issue. Also, I would go to a dermatologist but I don't have any money, so... any ideas?

Edit: Also my scalp frequently aches when I touch my hair if I go more than a day without washing.

 

[irishScott]

If shampoos/conditioners/washing intervals didn't help, only step I can really suggest is dermatologist.

That said, back when I had insane dandruff/itch I started using H&S Intensive Care, WAY more effective than the standard stuff. Might want to try it if you haven't yet.

 

[GenHoth]

What he said

 

[skace]

Why would you go a day without washing? Why do you say you don't have dandruff yet running your hands through your hair creates lots of dead skin? Isn't dandruff just dead skin? Your scalp is dry if you can do that. And a dry scalp is one of the causes of dandruff.

I don't know what to suggest to you, but I would think you should be able to get to a point where your scalp isn't so dry. Just like if you were moisturizing your arms everyday, I would expect you to get to a point where the skin wasn't flaking off your arms. If you haven't then I question the product or the process. However, there is a possibility that a condition exists that is preventing the desired results and since I'm not a doctor, I have no idea what that would be.