Excessively itchy scalps can be quite bothersome and rarely heal up on their own. A variety of skin conditions can cause your scalp to itch constantly. Often, treating an itchy scalp is as simple as identifying the irritant, such as a new shampoo, and eliminating it from your regimen. However, some issues do require medical attention and specialized treatments.
Causes
According to CNN's Dr. Jennifer Shu, there are several possible causes of an itchy scalp. The first, and simplest, is a change in weather. Cold, dry air tends to sap your skin of moisture and make it itchy. Sometimes, a substance that you're using on your head, such as a shampoo or hair dye, can trigger an allergic reaction called contact dermatitis. Dandruff, caused by an excess of bacteria on your scalp, is also an option. If the skin on your scalp is thickened, red and scaly, psoriasis is likely the culprit. A case of head lice can also make your scalp itch quite a bit.
Removing Buildup
If you suspect that your itchy scalp was triggered by a new hair care product, you should discontinue use immediately. It can also help to strip the irritating buildup that shampoo, hair gel and other products leave on your scalp and hair. After shampooing with a mild product, rinse your hair with 2 to 3 tbsp. of apple cider vinegar dissolved in 1 cup of warm water. This rinse can also help kill the bacteria that causes dandruff and invigorate dry scalps in the wintertime.
Avoiding Episodes
To avoid contact dermatitis episodes in the future, the book "Beauty: The New Basics" recommends switching to a very mild, water-based shampoo and using natural oil treatments instead of conditioners. These treatments will also keep your scalp moisturized. If dandruff was your main issue, using a medicated dandruff shampoo can keep the bacteria at bay.
Considerations
If the itching is severe or accompanied by lesions or a scalp rash, you should consider more serious conditions. Have someone check your scalp for head lice and their eggs by looking carefully at the base of the hair shaft and behind your ears. If you have symptoms of psoriasis, visit your doctor. This condition is likely to worsen without medical attention.
Further Attention
Head lice requires an over-the-counter treatment that includes an insecticide-based shampoo. You may also need to comb through your locks to make sure all the lice and eggs are gone. Psoriasis can be treated with prescription ointments, medicated shampoos and oral steroids. Inn both cases, you'll need to keep an eye out for recurrences and inform your doctor if your itchy scalp either returns or does not improve.
References
- FamilyResource.com: What Causes an Itchy Scalp?
- CNN Health: Why is My Scalp So Itchy?
- "Essentials of Dermatology for Chiropractors"; Michael R. Wiles and John Williams; 2010
- "Beauty: The New Basics"; Rona Berg, Anja Kroencke, and Deborah Jaffe; 2001
