An itchy scalp often comes from the ongoing skin condition of dandruff, which leaves your scalp dry and flaky. Dandruff has a variety of causes, including a reaction to hair products, not shampooing frequently enough and dry skin. An itchy scalp can also come about from a buildup of sweat and oil, which produces bacteria, common with dreadlocks, hair weaves and extensions that don’t let you brush, wash or otherwise stimulate your scalp.

While one of the typical treatments for an itchy scalp is a medicated shampoo, Listerine (yellow color only) is a remedy recommended by lots of beauty gurus. The mouthwash kills off built-up bacteria and is best used on mild dandruff or itchiness caused by shampoo or oil. Listerine’s antiseptic properties are too harsh for extreme dandruff or dry scalp with broken skin or open lesions.

Don’t use this treatment if you have open sores or irritation spots on your scalp since the Listerine may sting, burn or irritate any sores or similar.