Itchy Scalp

Causes of Itchy Scalp

Itchy scalp can be one of the most embarrassing problems one can face. If the itching of the scalp is excessive it should not be ignored. Itchy scalp may be a symptom of a skin disease starting from the scalp.

Painful and Itchy scalp can be caused by a number of reasons. Dandruff could be one of the reasons. In dandruff the skin of scalp becomes dry and starts to flake. The dry skin causes the scalp to itch.

Another reason could be head lice. Head lice are generally found in small children in the age group of 4-11. Head lice also cause an itchy scalp.

Eczema can also lead to an itchy scalp. Eczema is a skin disease which can happen on any part of the body. The skin becomes patchy and dry in that particular area where it has occurred. It feels very itchy and rough. Eczema on the scalp can be troublesome as it causes a lot of itchiness and affects the hair too.

Another cause of an itchy scalp can be formation of ringworms on the scalp. These are patches which are circular and with a red rash border, they look like rings and hence called ringworms. If one sees the symptoms of ringworms on the scalp one should also check if it is getting developed at any other body part.

Common diseases like psoriasis, seborrhea can also cause an itchy scalp. Lichen planes could also cause itching. It is generally caused due to stress and fatigue.

 

Scalp Problem Treatment

As we read the various causes of itchy scalp, there are various treatments and drugs available to cure the itchy scalp. We have already discussed in our previous pages the cure for itchy scalp caused due to dandruff. Itchiness due to dandruff can be cured be using appropriate type of shampoos and conditioner.

Itchy scalp caused due to head lice can be cured by using proper anti-lice shampoos and lotions for over a period of time.

Eczema is a skin allergy which requires a doctor’s attention. If there is excessive itchiness in the scalp and you have ruled out all the common causes then may be it is the start of eczema. In such state one should visit the doctor for consultation. The doctor after diagnosis will give the necessary oral medicines and ointments as per the rash. It is best to visit the doctor and take a second opinion before doing any treatment yourself.

In diseases like ringworms, psoriasis, seborrhea etc. it is best to consult a skin specialist or a physician before taking any kind of treatment. A doctor’s consultation gives a clearer picture of the allergy and its treatment.

 

Natural Remedies for Itchy Scalp

For itchy scalp due to dry skin and dandruff, you can try the recipes below:

  1. Take a little coconut oil orolive oil in a bowl and heat it mildly. Take a small cotton ball and dip it in the oil. With it, gently apply oil on the entire scalp. Now gently massage the scalp for at least a half hour. After the massage, take a small tub of hot water and a small towel to fit your scalp. Then dip the towel in the hot water, squeeze the excess water out and then apply the hot towel on the head and leave it for a while. Repeat the same a few times. The steam opens the pores of your scalp and further helps the oil to nourish the roots. After the entire procedure, you can wash as usual with a mild shampoo.

  2. Also see the recipes mentioned on the dandruff cure page.

 

Itchy Scalp Prevention

Itchy scalp can be caused due to number of reasons. Prevention of the same can be done to a certain extent. Prevention from too much of climatic changes can help. Dirty water can also be a cause of skin allergy, by taking care of water hygiene one can be saved from unnecessary skin allergies. Less stress and a balanced diet with lot of liquids definitely helps in keeping the skin healthy in turn reduces scalp problems.

Sometimes things are not in our hands. Our environment that we live in also plays an important role in our lives. So changing everything in limits can just make us live a healthier and stress free life.