ADMIT IT!! We all have a love and hate relationship with an itchy scalp.
While there’s no point denying that shoving your finger into your greasy hair is not something that we all look forward to. But the feeling of relief you get after aiming your fingernails high towards your head and scratching up the scalp is indescribable. Heaven, right??
Well, not exactly. Although it does feel great to scratch your scalp, once you enter into this vicious cycle of itching, there isn’t coming back. So, that is, for sure, not helping.
And don’t even get us started with the hair loss that comes with it. The deadly combination of itchy scalp and hair loss will give any horror movie a run for its money.
But why is your scalp so itchy? How to stop itchy scalp? What about hair loss?
Don’t panic, this guide contains everything you need to know about scalp irritation and how to get rid of itchy scalp.
What is an itchy scalp?
An itchy scalp, more popular by the name of scalp pruritus, is a condition that strikes us often. It is a sense of discomfort marked by a constant urge to scratch your head scalp. The interpretation to prickling scalp can be many.
Scalp pruritus can be the result of dermatologic, systemic, neurologic, and psychogenic diseases.
While a scalp itch may seem like a common issue that doesn’t have severe implications, if it’s accompanied by hair loss, splitting, or hair brittle, then you should probably consider digging deep into the root of the issue to make those hair roots strong.
The most possible causes of itching irritations are dandruff (Seborrheic dermatitis), infection, inflammation, in-born disorders, and allergic reaction.
At other times, they can be an indicator of underlying medical conditions such as:
- Diabetes
- Anxiety disorder
- Lupus or hypothyroidism
- Eczema
- Scalp psoriasis
- Scarring alopecia
- Ringworm or tinea capitis
What Causes An Itchy Scalp?
The causes of the scalp irritations might vary from one person to another and can be identified depending upon the frequency, severity, and duration of the condition. If left undiagnosed, the excessive scratching can lead bacteria or fungus to develop into the layers of the scalp, which results in secondary infections.
Some of the scalp irritations might even result in hair loss. So, it is crucial to know the reason behind the tingling scalp.
Some of the causes of an itchy scalp are:
1. Dandruff
Also known as Seborrheic dermatitis, this is probably one of the most common forms of scalp irritations encountered. This happens due to an overreactive gland on the scalp.
Resembling snowflakes, this condition is caused by a combination of oily skin and yeast and is also promoted due to lifestyle and environmental factors, such as hair products, acne, stress, and obesity. They are prominent during the winter season.
Dandruff can also be an indicator of certain diseases like HIV or Parkinson’s disease. Treatment with a commercial potentiated zinc pyrithione shampoo or the presence of active elements like salicylic acid and antifungals such as ketoconazole or selenium sulfide can be a saviour.
2. Psoriasis or eczema
Psoriasis occurs when the immune system triggers too many cells to develop on the different parts of the body. It is a chronic condition that results in a dry, itchy buildup of skin cells that may crack and bleed.
Often confused with dandruff, they are identified with silvery-white scale and dry scalp. They are visible across the back of the neck or behind the ears.
Meanwhile, eczema is a condition common among babies. It includes itching, redness, swelling, and scaling of the skin. These symptoms develop due to allergic or inflammatory reactions in the skin.
Try consulting a doctor or health professionals to getting proper treatment with special shampoo or medication.
3. Allergic reaction
We all have that one moment where we did things for a sport and regretted it later on. Come on!! Maybe a crazy hair color at the peak of existential crisis. DON’T LIE?
While such moments will make your life so lively, they can sometimes mess up your hair and scalp. Sometimes, different hair products and hair dyes can irritate your scalp and spoil your experience.
You want to watch out for the ingredient called para-phenylenediamine (PPD), which is included in black dyes. The allergic reaction can also develop due to shampoo, conditioner, or any other product that comes in contact with your scalp. Try giving your hair a little break and go all-natural.
4. A tight ponytail
Something that we all are culprits of. We all can agree that a ponytail is never going out of style and definitely help with getting that cute look. But the aftermath, who’s gonna talk about it?
Wearing your hair up all day in a tight scrunchie or rocking different hairstyles like braids, buns, extensions, and weaves can result in exerting much pressure on the hair and scarring over time. This eventually leads to hair-splitting and hair loss.
This not only results in hair breakage but also affects your baby’s hairs, surrounding nerves, and muscles in an unnatural direction. And ultimately makes your scalp sore and itchy.
So let down that lovely hair and let them be. Try using loose hairstyles.
5. Scalp ringworm
Scalp ringworm is a fungus that affects your scalp and causes itchy, scaly, and bald patches on the head. They are highly communicable and common among toddlers and school-age children.
They are identified by patches that slowly expand or enlarge and include fragile hair that easily pulls out. Unlike other forms of hair issues, the hair falls out or can easily be pulled out.
The treatment includes medications that are consumed orally to kill the fungi, or different shampoos, rinses, or creams to use on your head.
Individuals with these conditions should make sure that their belongings are not shared or used to prevent the spread of this condition.
Also Read: Hair Transplant in Nepal
Can an itchy scalp cause hair loss?
Ok the moment of the truth, we’ve been waiting for. Is an itchy scalp and hair loss long lost friend who is all set to rip your hair apart?
The answer to this depends upon the circumstance. Apart from the aforementioned causes of the tingling scalp, other issues can lead to scalp irritations and hair thinning. Hair loss happens when there is aggressive scratching or the scalp condition impacts the structure or strength of hair follicles.
Inflamed hair follicles can make the scalp itch and deteriorates hair follicles, leading to hair loss.
In certain instances, scars occur on the scalp due to constant itching, thereby scar tissue destructs the nerve fibers in the skin. This is eventually followed up by hair loss.
It is to be noted that not all hair loss is evident through an itchy scalp. People with hereditary conditions can have hair breakage without any noticeable signs of an itchy scalp.
How To Get Rid Of Itchy Scalp
Now that you have known the A-Zs of itchy scalp and hair loss in general. Treatment for itchy scalp depends on the cause. So, make sure to identify the cause before opting for a solution. Some of the ways on how to stop itchy scalp are mentioned below:
- Selenium sulfide
Selenium sulfide is a product used for treating seborrheic dermatitis. It operates by hindering the growth of yeast on the scalp. You can find it as shampoo and lotion. It is available in commercial stores. However, it’s always a good idea to get a prescription from your doctor.
The prescribed dosage tends to be twice weekly for the first two weeks and then once a week up to a month. The commercially bought product often has label instructions in it to ease the process.
2. Ketoconazole shampoo
Recommended for decreasing Malassezia yeast, this is an antifungal product. This shampoo is recommended for people with psoriasis, tinea infections, dandruff, and is even known to promote hair growth.
In some cases, ketoconazole shampoo can have side effects. This includes skin irritation in the form of pimple-like bumps or oiliness or dryness of the scalp, changes in hair texture, and discolouration. So make sure to consider these things.
3. Salicylic acid
Shampoos with salicylic acid are appropriate for psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis. Present in evergreen leaves and white willow tree bark, it is a beta hydroxy acid with anti-inflammatory properties
The range of the shampoo containing this ingredient might vary as per the shampoo. So, follow along with the instructions given. People with aspirin allergies shouldn’t use this product. Salicylic acid operates by dissolving skin cells and also known to rejuvenate by providing enough moisture.
4. Zinc Pyriothione Shampoo
Zinc Pyriothione Shampoo is an antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antifungal property-based product that helps individuals with dandruff, scalp psoriasis, and acne. It works by stopping the growth of yeast.
The shampoo is considered to provide relief to itch. You may notice significant changes from washing your hair every two or three days. This shampoo is highly effective for people with itchy scalp from allergies by increasing histamine levels.
Zinc Pyriothione is also available in the cream. It can be used to treat seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis on the body.
5. Tea tree oil
If you’re in a mood to go for a chilled-up version of hair treatment, then you can give tea tree oil a chance. It is widely known for its antimicrobial, antifungal, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Be a little cautious with their use as they can be irritating to the skin. So dilute it prior to its use. They can help to alleviate itch related to dandruff and head lice. Mix about 10-20 drops of tea tree oil with shampoo or dilute it with olive oil and massage it on your scalp to ease the itch.
There are even some long-term treatments that help with hair loss. They include minoxidil, finasteride, and hair transplantation.
Conclusion
So remember to keep these factors into consideration. Your hair share countless stories: stories of change, a messed-up attempt, and a narrative of bravery(we’re sure you’ve pulled up a bold haircut that didn’t sound like a good idea).
That’s why the foundation on which they stand i.e, scalp needs proper nurturing. So. the next time if you ever happen to stumble with the thoughts of ‘’Why am I losing so many hairs?’’ or ‘’how to get rid of itchy scalp’’, remember these aspects. Follow these tips and fix those itchy scalp and hair loss. If the problem persists then please consult your nearest dermatology clinic.