The 5 Most Common Scalp Conditions

The 5 Most Common Scalp Conditions

Itchy Scalp

While there are many causes of an itchy scalp, one of the most common is just not cleansing your scalp correctly. Not washing your hair correctly can lead to a buildup of dirt, sebum, and hair product on your scalp. This buildup can make the scalp feel itchy.

To treat an itchy scalp at home, wash hair three to four times per week with a gentle shampoo. When washing your hair, massage the shampoo into your scalp with your fingertips to remove dirt and excess sebum. Be sure to rinse hair thoroughly to remove all shampoo and conditioner from the hair and scalp. Additionally, use a clarifying shampoo once per month to help to remove excess buildup.

Dandruff

Anyone who’s had flakes show up on their dark clothing is familiar with dandruff, which is actually a mild form of seborrheic dermatitis. Dandruff is a buildup of dead skin on the scalp. Dandruff can also cause an itchy scalp. While there’s no cure, you can control dandruff by washing your hair with medicated shampoo.

Eczema & Dry Scalp

Are you experiencing patches of dry, rough, itchy skin on your scalp? When the skin’s naturally protective lipid barrier is compromised, it may result in an itchy and inflamed eczema rash.

Switch to using fragrance-free formulas of hair care products, since fragrance can irritate your scalp. If your eczema persists, you can ask your dermatologist for a cream that will restore the scalp’s natural lipid barrier.

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis appears on the scalp as greasy scale with dandruff. This condition can be triggered by stress and weather, especially in climates with cold, dry winters.

While scientists aren’t sure of the cause, it’s thought that a type of yeast is the culprit. When left untreated, seborrheic dermatitis can result in hair loss. Thus, if you suspect you have the condition, you should visit your doctor right away for treatment.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that can cause pink or silver scaly plaques to appear on the scalp or elsewhere on the skin. While there’s no cure for this condition, your dermatologist can prescribe you a topical spray or cream. Psoriasis can also be a sign of a food allergy, so your doctor may recommend dropping gluten or dairy from your diet to see if your symptoms improve.