An itchy scalp can be frustrating but it is a common occurrence. There are both many causes for an itchy scalp and many ways to help alleviate the itching. The symptoms you experience may range anywhere from a mild itch to a more severe itch, and treatments may be as simple as switching to a better shampoo or using a medicated shampoo. Contact your doctor to help you determine the best course of action.
Identification
Scalp conditions such as dandruff, dry scalp, scalp psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis can cause an itchy scalp. Dandruff is a condition caused by many other factors and some types of dandruff require medical treatments. It can make the scalp itchy, red and irritated and produce white, oily flakes of dead skin. Dry scalp is a result of a disruption in the oil glands on the scalp. A lack of oil can cause the scalp to itch. Scalp psoriasis is an inflammatory condition that causes redness, itching, scales and plaques. Seborrheic dermatitis is also an inflammatory condition but is caused by a build up of excess oil, resulting in flaking, redness and itching.
Risk Factors
Itching is usually a sign of dryness. A dry scalp can be caused by the weather. Winter weather creates cold, dry climates where the humidity levels fall, resulting in excessive dryness, notes MayoClinic.com. Central heating and air conditioning equally dry out the air, leaving humidity levels low. Frequent shampooing, taking hot showers or using hot hairdryers can dry out your scalp. Skin infections can result in either dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis, and an autoimmune disorder may cause scalp psoriasis.
Treatment
There are a variety of treatments depending on the reason for your itchy scalp. Dandruff shampoos that contain either selenium sulfide or ketoconazole are effective for relieving the itching and flaking, according to the National Institutes of Health. Anti-dandruff shampoos can help with seborrheic dermatitis also. Salicylic acid and coal tar are common ingredients for treating scalp psoriasis. Avoiding the risk factors can help alleviate a dry scalp.
Effects
Anti-dandruff shampoos work by getting rid of the underlying skin infection while soothing the itchy scalp. Salicylic acid shampoos cause the outer layer of skin to shed, which treats the overproduction of skin cells caused by psoriasis. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, coal tar shampoos help to slow the rapid production of skin cells, reduce inflammation and itching and restore your scalp's natural surface.
Considerations
Other treatments for an itchy scalp can include deep conditioners or hot oil treatments. Eating a healthy diet will also benefit your hair and scalp. Drinking plenty of water to keep yourself well hydrated will also help your skin stay moisturized.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Dandruff
- PubMed Health: National Institutes of Health: Selenium Sulfide
- MayoClinic.com: Selenium Sulfide (Topical Route)
- National Psoriasis Foundation: Treating Psoriasis: Over-the-Counter (OTC) Topicals
- Surviving Hair Loss: Handling Seborrheic Dermatitis
- Surviving Hair Loss: Overcoming Scalp Psoriasis
