Having a scalp that smells can be an embarrassing condition that may cause you to avoid social interactions. Some individuals experience a smelly scalp even after they have shampooed their hair normally, sometimes even within a few hours. You may find yourself not wanting to stand close to others out of fear that they may smell the unpleasant odor from your scalp.
Causes
Dr. Donnica Moore recommends consulting a dermatologist before attempting to treat a smelly scalp. There are various reasons for the condition, and it is important to single out the cause. Scalp smell may be caused by an overproduction of oil from the sebaceous glands in the area. Additionally, an overproduction of bacteria, yeast or fungus on the scalp might cause a persistent infection. If your scalp infection is caused by a fungus, using an antibacterial treatment will not cure the smell.
Sulfur Shampoos
Cosmopolitan magazine says to choose a sulfur-based shampoo to help clear the bacteria-producing oil on the scalp. Sulfur shampoos can be found over the counter in most drug stores or with a prescription from your doctor. Sulfur shampoos should not be used on broken-out, irritated skin or open wounds. The shampoo works by softening the skin and encouraging the dead, flaky skin cells to slough off. It is often used in combination to treat both dandruff and related scalp smells.
Anti-bacterial Shampoos
Moore says that some individuals have had success using anti-bacterial soaps, such as gentle anti-bacterial hand soaps, on their scalps, although there is no medical research that backs up this claim. If you suffer from a bacterial scalp infection, your doctor may prescribe anti-bacterial soaps for your scalp in addition to a course of oral antibiotics.
Pyrithione Zinc Shampoos
Pyrithione zinc shampoos are commonly used to treat occurrences of dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis, as well as to combat smelly scalp syndrome. Most over-the-counter dandruff shampoos contain pyrithione zinc. Mayo Clinic recommends using a shampoo with pyrithione zinc at least two times per week. In addition to a shampoo, pyrithione zinc products come in lotion form to be used after shampooing. Do not use this shampoo on irritated or broken-out skin. It is safe to use for children, elderly and pregnant women.
Considerations
The adage "less is more" may pertain to shampooing your hair. A National Public Radio report points to dermatological concerns that washing your hair frequently strips the hair of its natural oils. The sebaceous glands overcompensate by producing excess oil, which may cause greasy hair and scalp odors. Some individuals nix shampoo altogether and substitute a baking soda wash and vinegar hair rinse.
