Six Helpful Tools That Can Relieve An Itchy Weave

Don’t Pat Your Head to Death

Ladies, we all are guilty of the infamous 'pat your weave until it stops itching' movement.

I know I'll pat my head until I get a headache. We do this because; #1 we are too lazy to get up and get something to scratch with, #2 we don't know what to use or #3 we don't know what is causing it to itch so badly.

Let's quickly discuss why are hair extensions can cause so much itching once installed. Then, you can check out these simple tools and tips to help rid yourself of that itchy install.

Treat your hair before you get your hair extensions installed

It’s not rocket science that you have to wash your hair often, especially right before you install hair extensions for your weave.

The key to an adequately clean scalp is the right shampoo and the right conditioner. You want to make sure that you are using products that are moisturizing and will not dry out your hair. Once you thoroughly wash or condition your hair, it is always best to apply a moisturizing agent before styling.

That product can be anything from light oil, soothing cream or even leave-in conditioner. It is always the stylist's job also to make sure that their client's hair is ready for the install. They usually will grease your scalp upon completion of the braiding foundation.

Now that 'take care of your hair 101' is over, let's get to the meat of this article which talks about tools to help relieve you of an itchy weave.

Six Scalp Soothing Tools

Yes, I know what you are thinking: can’t you just use something pointy or pat your head until the itching stops? Of course, you can; you are free to do what you please ladies but just know that there are more efficient ways to relieve yourself of that annoying itch.

Queen Bey did tell us to pat our weaves, but we have to do better; especially when there are products that we can use. Stop giving yourself a headache and try out these tools below: 

Rat Tail Combs

Yes, using the end of a rat tail comb will help sooth the constant itching of your weave. This styling tool has been around for decades and helps with more than just combing and parting your hair. I’ve found that the rat tail combs work the best for getting to those tight, hard to reach spots. Definitely, one of the most iconic soothing tools for itchy weaves.

If you can, stay away from the steel ended rat tail combs as they can cause you to scratch your scalp beyond just getting at the itch of your weave. You can pick at your scalp so much with the steel end that you can draw blood and cause further irritation.

Scalp massaging brushes

These things work wonders on the scalp, and they feel amazing! You are probably familiar with that part of the shampoo when your stylist brushes your hair, and it just feels so good and tingles? This brush is what they use, the scalp massaging brush.

Many companies make these, so you have options. These brushes are also great for dandruff as well, multifunctional at its best!

Scalp Soother

This three-prong tool is similar to a hair pick. It is relatively long but has a curve to it. The scalp soother is the ideal tool to use to scratch that itch on your head and in between your weave. This tool is another multifunctional tool that can be used during wash day also.

Scalp Bliss Itch Calming Dipstix Set

This is nothing like the other tools mentioned, but this might just be the answer you ladies were seeking.

Not only is this tool not a probing pointer that scratches, but it’s also an organic serum that helps relieve that itchy sensation. This soothing scalp tool can be applied directly to the scalp before, during or after you have your hair extensions installed.

With many organic ingredients and nourishing oils, this tool will be sure to help out with itching.

Dry Shampoo

Apply dry shampoo directly to your scalp. It acts as a sort of cooling spray when applied to your scalp as opposed to your hair. On top of serving as a cooling agent, dry shampoo helps pull excess oils and dirt from your scalp: the main reason for the itching.

For women with thicker hair, in my experiences, this does not take the place of regular shampoo as it can make your hair sticky and weigh it down. So remember, apply directly to the scalp to receive that itch.

Natural remedies for scalp itching

You can make the concoction that works for you and spray it on your scalp before and during the install of your weave. One that works well for me is apple cider vinegar or witch hazel, water and Seabreeze.

Seabreeze is an old school scalp treatment but works wonders for a sensitive or irritated scalp. Always do your research on ingredients before making this mixture. This tool is still helpful and can be inexpensive and lasts forever because you won't need that much when applying.

Reasons why your scalp is itchy

It's best that before you buy tools or products to relieve the itch, know what is irritating first. Knowing precautions will always save your time, effort and money and who doesn't want to save!

A dry scalp

The main reason for your hair to itch once your hair extensions are in place. Always make sure you are using moisturizing products before getting your hair extensions installed.

Do not use too much oil though as it will cause your hair to become dirty and where there is dirt, there will be an irritation. Don't be afraid to wash, moisturize and condition your install in between salon visits if you see fit.

An irritated scalp

Along with the right duo of shampoo and conditioner, you always need to make sure that your scalp isn’t irritated before or during the install. Make sure that your stylist isn’t braiding your hair too tight. Weaving too tightly can cause the scalp to tense up which will cause irritation which leads to dryness, therefore creating an itchy weave.

Your Braid foundation is too tight

Make sure your stylist isn't braiding too tightly together. Braiding too closely together leaves little to no breathing room for your scalp. What does something do when it cannot breathe? It will suffocate and so can your scalp.

Medical/Skin related issues

Of course, there are medical or skin associated issues that can cause an itchy, dry and irritated scalp.

Don’t Forget The Basics

If you have any medical or skin related problem the effects your scalp, please see a dermatologist or your physician before you try, and self-medicate.

Some conditions can cause a person’s scalp to be extremely sensitive which will lead to the main topic of this article. If you have any situation like the mentioned, please find another method of wearing extensions so that your scalp can breathe and repair.

In the grand words of Queen Bey, “pat your weave ladies “ but before you pat yourself into a coma, check out these tools and some natural remedies. Don't forget to check out the reasons why your scalp is so itchy. Continue to take care of your hair, properly wash it before and while you have in your hair extensions.

See a dermatologist if the itching persists to no avail after you have exhausted all options. Oil is your friend but never uses too much because dirt will become your best friend and then your scalp is dirty and irritated.

I hope this helped and comment below with any other helpful tools or tips you have and let us know if any of the above has been of great use.