Have you tried massaging (organic) castor oil into your scalp regularly, leaving it on for a while (under a towel or shower cap)? It’s known to stimulate hair growth. I find it to be quite effective.

Hi Martha, and thank you so much for reaching out with your question.

Itchy scalp without dandruff is a common issue, especially as we age. As the skin matures, it naturally becomes drier and more sensitive, which can lead to irritation—even in the absence of visible flaking or rash. The scalp, like the rest of our skin, can lose moisture and its protective barrier, resulting in persistent itchiness. While your dermatologist’s comment that “older people get itchy scalp” may be technically true, it doesn’t mean there’s nothing you can do about it.

A gentle, scalp-focused care routine can often provide relief. Start by using a mild, fragrance-free shampoo and make sure you rinse it out thoroughly, as product residue is a common cause of irritation. Moisturizing the scalp is equally important—natural options like aloe vera gel, jojoba oil, or a few drops of cold-pressed plant oils massaged gently into the scalp can help restore hydration and soothe discomfort. Avoiding products with strong fragrances, alcohol, or harsh botanicals is also important, as the scalp becomes more reactive with age.

Additional steps like using a humidifier at home to combat dryness, gently exfoliating the scalp to remove buildup, and maintaining a skin-supportive diet rich in omega-3s, antioxidants, and key nutrients (such as zinc and vitamin D) may all help. If the itch persists, consider revisiting your dermatologist to explore underlying causes like mild seborrheic dermatitis or sensitivity to hair care ingredients that may not be obvious. You might also ask about trying a gentle medicated shampoo with ingredients like zinc pyrithione or ketoconazole.

Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your routine. Thanks again for being part of the community—I hope these suggestions help you find relief soon. –Ina, Food Revolution Network Team

Hi Elvia! It’s never too late to support your hair health. While it’s natural for hair to thin with age—especially in your seventies—there’s still potential to slow further loss, improve the strength and appearance of remaining hair, and even stimulate modest regrowth depending on the condition of your hair follicles. Many follicles remain viable even in later life, and with the right care, they can respond positively to supportive measures.

A plant-based, nutrient-rich diet can be a key part of this approach. Prioritizing foods rich in protein, iron, zinc, B12, and vitamin D, along with a wide variety of colorful fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, can help nourish the scalp and hair from the inside out. Gentle hair care routines that avoid harsh treatments, combined with managing overall health—especially hormone or thyroid-related imbalances—can also make a meaningful difference. While results vary, taking consistent, supportive steps can go a long way in preserving and caring for the hair you have. –Ina, Food Revolution Network Team

Thank you for sharing your story, Sheila! It’s amazing how all of our body organs and systems are so connected. A problem in one area can show up in a completely different area of the body. I’m so glad you found your answers and that you were able to heal! –Ina, Food Revolution Network Team

Hi Sarina! I’m sorry your daughter is going through this annoyance!

Sudden increases in scalp oiliness can feel confusing, especially when hair appears greasy shortly after washing. While no single vitamin deficiency is universally linked to oily hair, a few nutrients may play a supporting role in scalp health. Specifically, deficiencies in B vitamins—especially B2 (riboflavin) and B6 (pyridoxine)—have been associated with disruptions in fat metabolism, which could affect oil production. Zinc and vitamin D are also involved in skin and scalp function, though their link to excessive oiliness is less direct. Still, having blood work done to assess these nutrient levels could be helpful.

That said, oily hair is often driven more by hormonal fluctuations, scalp conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, or changes in hair care routines. Hormonal shifts related to stress, birth control, or menstrual cycles can increase sebum production. Product buildup or using overly harsh shampoos can also trigger the scalp to produce more oil in response. If your daughter’s routine or products have changed recently, it may be worth revisiting those choices.

For now, she might benefit from using a gentle, clarifying shampoo once or twice a week and ensuring she’s not applying heavy oils or conditioners directly to the scalp. Supporting her body through a whole foods, plant-based diet rich in legumes, whole grains, seeds, and leafy greens may also promote scalp balance naturally. If symptoms persist or worsen, we’d recommend she consult with a dermatologist to rule out scalp conditions or hormonal concerns. –Ina, Food Revolution Network Team

Thank you, Samir–glad you enjoyed it. –Ina, Food Revolution Network Team

Thanks very much for your feedback and recommendation, Ann! –Ina, Food Revolution Network Team

Hi Susan, thank you for your comment. I hope the information in the article (and your own further research) can help you find out what the source might be. I assume you’ve had your iron/ferretin checked as well? Yes, please keep us updated on whether or not the Biotin works. I would love to know. –Ina, Food Revolution Network Team

I’m so glad this information gave you a new place to start, Shelley. I hope you find the exact combination of things that help. I do know that it can take time for regrowth to happen, so keep working on it! Also, what an incredibly supportive thing you did for your friend. You are wonderful 🙂 –Ina, Food Revolution Network Team

You are very welcome, Kadagathur. –Ina, Food Revolution Network Team