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Brits Battle Itchy Scalps: Is Your Water to Blame?
9 Dec
Summary
- Hard water and winter conditions exacerbate scalp dryness and itchiness.
- Actress Martine McCutcheon linked London's hard water to scalp issues.
- Over half of UK adults believe their local water worsens dandruff.

The harsh winter conditions, combined with dry air and indoor heating, are significantly impacting scalp health across the UK. Lack of moisture and frequent hat-wearing can lead to an uncomfortable, itchy, and sore scalp. These issues are further compounded by factors such as hormones, genetics, and importantly, the type of tap water used.
Celebrity Martine McCutcheon recently highlighted how moving to London exacerbated her scalp sensitivity and dandruff due to the city's hard water. She found a medicated shampoo beneficial for managing these conditions, crucial for her profession. Her experience echoes findings from a report indicating that 52% of Brits experience dandruff, with London and the South East reporting the highest impact from local water on scalp health.
Solutions range from specialized shower heads to more accessible options like switching to clarifying shampoos. The Polytar Scalp Shampoo, containing antiseptic tar, is noted for cleansing and treating conditions like psoriasis and dandruff. While it has received positive reviews for reducing itching and buildup, some users report a medicinal scent or slight impact on hair color.



