An itchy scalp can be annoying, though it is common. There are many causes of an itchy scalp and equally as many treatments. To determine the right course of action for your super itchy scalp, consult your doctor. There are ways to help alleviate the itching and restore your skin and hair to normal. A healthy scalp is important for healthy hair.
Identification
An itchy scalp can indicate a few scalp conditions such as dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, dry scalp or scalp psoriasis. Dry scalp and dandruff are often confused with one another as they both cause itching, flaking and irritation, but dandruff is an infection. Seborrhea dermatitis is inflammation of the skin that results in itching, flaking and redness. Scalp psoriasis is also an inflammatory condition that causes itching, flaking and redness but with an added symptom of scales.
Risk Factors
A dry scalp can be caused by cold or dry weather and moving in and out of heated areas, according to the Hair Finder website. It can also be the result of overuse of hair products or a blow-dryer. Your scalp may feel tight and very itchy. A skin infection can trigger dandruff, and seborrheic dermatitis is thought to be caused by a fungal infection, according to the Surviving Hair Loss website. Scalp psoriasis can be caused by an autoimmune disorder and triggered by stress, injury, infection or medications.
Treatment
Depending on the cause of your super itchy scalp, there are a variety of treatments. Anti-dandruff shampoos include either selenium sulfide or ketoconazole to relieve the itching and flaking associated with dandruff, according to the National Institutes of Health. Seborrheic dermatitis can be treated with anti-dandruff shampoos as well. Shampoos containing salicylic acid or coal tar help treat scalp psoriasis by causing the outer layer of skin to shed, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation.
Effects
Selenium sulfide shampoos are anti-infective and come in two strengths: 1 percent and 2.5 percent. The 2.5 percent is usually by prescription only, according to the Mayo Clinic. It treats dandruff by getting rid of the underlying infection while soothing your itchy scalp. Salicylic acid shampoos are effective as they are considered to be peeling agents, causing the skin to shed. Coal tar shampoos work by reducing inflammation and itching, slowing the rapid production of skin cells to restore your scalp's natural surface, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation.
Considerations
Other treatments for an itchy scalp include deep conditioning treatments, lotions or moisturizers. Scalp massages work by enhancing blood circulation to the scalp to encourage oil production at the hair follicles, according to the Hair Finder website. A home remedy of wrapping your head in a warm, moist towel can aid in alleviating an itchy, dry scalp.
References
- Hairfinder: Scalp Problems -- Scalp Basics
- Short Hair Style: Hair and Scalp Problem?
- U.S. National Library of Medicine: National Institutes of Health: Selenium Sulfide
- MayoClinic.com: Selenium Sulfide (Topical Route)
- National Psoriasis Foundation: Treating psoriasis: Over-the-counter (OTC) Topicals
- Surviving-HairLoss.com: Handling Seborrheic Dermatitis
