A smelly scalp or smelly hair can be quite embarrassing. You may not want to bring it up but the truth is, you need to address the problem before it gets worse. Try some home remedies to reduce the odor, such as washing your hair with baking soda, lemon juice or use a medicated shampoo, according to Keral.com. These are only temporary solutions though, especially if the odor from your scalp is caused by infection. In the case of an infection, you will need to seek help from a licensed health care professional.
Fungus
A fungal infection of your scalp can cause bad odors, according to DrDonnica.com. The Mayo Clinic states that ringworm of the scalp is a common fungal infection. Ringworm of the scalp is most common in adolescent children who are school-aged, according to the Mayo Clinic. The fungus invades your skin, creating itchy patches on your scalp. As the skin flakes, it can cause an undesirable odor. For a fungal infection, your primary care physician or dermatologist can prescribe oral and topical medications to cure the fungal infection on your scalp. For more severe fungal infections, a topical cream or ointment may need to be applied to the infected area along with the use of an oral medication.
Bacteria
Bacterial infections of the scalp may also cause a bad odor. According to the Mayo Clinic, folliculitis is a bacterial infection caused by Staphylococcus or other bacteria. You may experience large, swollen bumps and have pus-filled blisters which can break open, causing scabbing. The clusters of scabs, containing infection and dead skin cells, can lead to scalp odor. Bacterial infections will not go away without proper treatment. Your dermatologist or primary health care physician can prescribe antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria that are causing the infection and possibly a topical ointment to help heal sores on your scalp.
Overactive Oil Glands
Overactive sebaceous oil glands on your scalp can cause bad odor, according to DrDonnica.com. This happens when your oil glands are very productive and your scalp develops an oily build-up. The oily build-up on your scalp can cause your hair to become matted and stuck to your scalp. To make matters worse, the bad odor gets worse when you sweat and your hair traps the sweat along with the oil on your scalp. You can shampoo frequently to avoid oily build-up and matted hair but you may want to consider seeing your dermatologist for a recommended shampoo.
