Are you constantly reaching out and getting in a few good scratches on your scalp whenever no one is looking? Do you always shy away from going out to a social event because that itch is too overpowering, and you do not want to end up embarrassing yourself? If your answer is a positive nod, then you have a case of an itchy scalp that needs immediate attention. So how to treat your itchy scalp?
Don't worry. This is a common condition faced by many, and while an itchy scalp isn't usually a sign of something serious, it may be a sign of something that should not be taken lightly. Find out what's causing your itchy skin, as well as how to treat and avoid it, in the sections below.
The most common causes of an itchy scalp include the following:
- Seborrheic dermatitis (SD)
The most common explanation is that Seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is a disease that affects areas of the body with many oil-producing glands, including the scalp, ears, and back.
- Dandruff
Dandruff is a mild type of SD, which occurs when the scalp becomes too dry and begins to itch and flake off.
- Inconsiderate haircare practice
If people don't rinse their shampoo off after washing their hair, it can build up on the scalp, causing scratching and flaking.
- Lice on the head
These parasitic insects, which feed on human blood and are transmitted primarily through close personal contact, are common among young children and their families.
- Dermatitis due to touch
Hair products, such as black hair dye, can cause allergic reactions in certain people, causing itching and rashes on the skin.
- Scabies
Scabies occurs when human itch mites burrow into the skin, causing extreme itching that prevents a person from sleeping.
- Hives
Itchy bumps that are often red and raised can appear anywhere on the body, including the scalp.
- Ringworms
Ringworms are a parasitic infection that affects the scalp as well. This disease, also known as Tinea Capitis, is caused by a fungus, despite its name.
- Psoriasis of the scalp
Around half of people with plaque psoriasis on their bodies experience symptoms on their scalp as well.
- Atopic dermatitis
This is a form of dermatitis that affects the scalp, which causes excessive itching that can lead to infection.
What is the best way to deal with an itchy scalp?
The cause will determine how to treat your itchy scalp. Dandruff, for example, is handled with topical agents and daily hair washing. Each scalp medicine has a different mechanism of action, such as reducing scalp oil or killing fungus.
Head lice need medical attention, such as shampooing with a lice-killing shower or applying a lice-killing ointment to the scalp. While the medication destroys active lice, a fine-tooth comb will extract lice eggs (nits).
People who live in close quarters may need preventive care in addition to these treatments. All clothing, bedding, and towels that came into contact with the infected person must be washed or dry cleaned at temperatures above 55 degrees Celcius.
If an allergic reaction causes your itchy scalp, you must stop using the product that caused it and seek medical help if the reaction is severe. And it really comes down to the individual's response to the specific ingredients. It could be caused by vigorous towel drying or by using too hot water since water strips the top layer of sebum from your scalp. If you live in really low humidity areas, it could be the dry scalp; if you're not drinking enough water, itchy scalp is also worse during the cold, dry winter months.
Take care of the itch and the flakes on your dry scalp in two steps. Since itching is often caused by inflammation, ingredients that help reduce inflammation may also reduce itching. Here are three winning techniques that use ingredients that you may already have on hand:
- Apple cider vinegar
Not only does apple cider vinegar have anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial effects, but it can also be used as a clarifying rinse to remove excess chemical build-up (diluted with water). Its high acidity helps to keep bacteria and fungus that cause dandruff at bay.
- Vitamin E
Vitamin E is found in vegetables such as asparagus and broccoli and fresh fruits such as mangoes and papaya. Almonds and wheat germ may be added to smoothies and cold cereals for a balanced nutrient dose. If you're not sure if you're getting enough from your diet, consider massaging pure vitamin E oil directly onto your scalp once a week for three to five minutes. It will help balance the pH levels of your scalp and increase overall circulation while also reducing dryness.
- Coconut oil
Coconut is one of the best home ingredients for a dry scalp, and it's just an overall wonder cure for natural hair, whether you have dry strands or a dry scalp. This hair oil is formulated with Lauric acid, which has antimicrobial properties and aids in the efficient absorption of coconut oil by the skin. As a result, you're getting the itch-relieving medication on the surface of your scalp as well as under the skin. Coconut oil can also help reduce the risk of infection if you've been scratching a lot.
What about shampoos and conditioners?
Well, the harsh reality is that though many companies claim that their shampoo will give you the desired results and rid you of your itchy scalp, the truth is that they don't. However, this miracle cure, the Eucerin DermoCapillaire Calming Urea Shampoo, helps cleanse, moisturise, and soothe an itchy scalp. This shampoo has given the desired results, which you can notice within a short period, and it is safe for children above three years of age. Simply apply it on dry scalp, leave it to soak for a while, rinse it and watch the magic happen.
How to treat your itchy scalp is something that all should stay clear from by early detection and the aftercare that follows. Remember, your hair is the most visible part of you, and anything which causes discomfort via itching can cause low self-esteem and lack of confidence. Get rid of it by following the tips and tricks mentioned in this write-up.
