How to get rid of an itchy scalp?

An itchy scalp is a common problem that thousands of people regularly face. It can occur for a variety of reasons, and it can be difficult to get rid of. But sometimes it is enough to simply remove the triggers and improve your care to ease your condition and even completely get rid of the unpleasant symptoms. But to do this, you first need to understand the causes of the discomfort and the needs of your own hair and scalp. Let's try to understand in more detail why scalp itching occurs, what to do when it appears, and how to properly treat scalp itching.

Main Causes of Itchy Scalp

In fact, there may be many different answers to the question of why the head is itchy. Such symptoms may be caused by:

• Dry scalp. This is one of the most underestimated reasons. Many people think that itching is always associated with oily skin or dandruff, but in practice, the opposite is often true - the skin is overdried. This may be due to frequent washing of the head with shampoos containing aggressive surfactants, the use of alkaline products or dyeing, especially bleaching. Sometimes the causes of dryness are quite atypical, it can be caused by dry air in the room (for example, in winter or with active air conditioning), as well as insufficient consumption and deficiency of fatty acids in the diet. Very dry skin becomes sensitive, reacts even to water, there is a feeling of tightness, itching and peeling.
• Seborrheic dermatitis. A very common, but often underdiagnosed condition. It is caused by yeast fungi of the genus Malassezia, which are normally present in everyone, but under certain conditions (oily skin, stress, decreased immunity) begin to actively multiply and cause inflammation. Seborrhea is manifested by itching, which intensifies after washing the head, a person is concerned about hair loss, oily dandruff, as well as redness of the skin in the hair growth zone, on the back of the head, behind the ears and on the eyebrows. This is a dermatological disease that requires a visit to the doctor. Without specialized care and therapy, it can become chronic. Allergy and irritation. If the itching appeared suddenly - especially after dyeing, using a new shampoo or mask - it may be contact dermatitis. It can be caused by various substances, such as dyes (especially PPD - paraphenylenediamine), preservatives and fragrances in cosmetics, as well as alcohols, sulfates, silicones and even natural oils. Allergic itching can be accompanied by a rash, swelling, a burning sensation. In case of a strong reaction, you should immediately consult a doctor.
• Improper care. Even if cosmetics are expensive and popular, this does not mean that they are right for you. Itching can be provoked by daily washing of the head with aggressive products. Also, this symptom can be caused by applying masks and balms to the scalp, when they are intended only for the length. Sometimes discomfort is provoked by excessive use of dry shampoos. Also, the cause of itchy scalp can be hidden in the constant wearing of hats that do not allow the skin to "breathe".
• Stress and hormonal imbalances. The scalp directly reacts to the internal state of the body. Under stress, the barrier function of the skin can be disrupted, the secretion of the sebaceous glands changes, microinflammations appear. The same applies to changes in hormonal levels: adolescence, pregnancy, menopause, thyroid disease, menstrual cycle irregularities - all this can become a trigger.

Sometimes itching is a symptom of more serious disorders: from vitamin deficiency to liver disease, anemia, diabetes. In such cases, the scalp is a "litmus test", and the problem can only be eliminated through diagnosis and treatment of the underlying disease. Also, a symptom of a serious problem can be itching in only one place.

What to do if there is already itching?

If the itching persists for more than two weeks, intensifies, or is accompanied by dandruff, redness, or rashes, do not self-medicate. Consult a trichologist or dermatologist. Modern diagnostics include:

• trichoscopy (examination of the scalp and hair follicles under magnification);
• sebum composition analysis;
• dermatological examination;
• if necessary, laboratory tests (vitamin D, ferritin, thyroid hormones, glucose).

Only on the basis of this data can a specialist suggest how to get rid of scalp itching and select, if necessary, dermatological products.

How to properly care for your scalp when itching?

Those who are interested in what to do if their scalp is itchy should first review their care. Doctors recommend:

• using mild cleansing shampoos without sulfates and aggressive surfactants;
• choosing products labeled "sensitive scalp";
• refusing to apply leave-in products to the scalp unless they are intended for this purpose;
• limiting the use of dry shampoos and styling products that can leave a film and interfere with the skin's breathing (or better yet, giving them up altogether for a while);
• not washing your hair with too hot water;
• introducing scalp peeling into your routine.

Scalp cleansing can be beneficial for different skin types. It helps:

• remove dead skin cells;
• cleanse pores;
• improve microcirculation;
• reduce itching and inflammation.

Choose a mild, acidic or enzyme peeling that suits your skin type. Frequency of use: once every 7–10 days.

Also, when thinking about what to do if your scalp is itchy, you should pay attention to sprays or serums for skin care. They may contain panthenol, niacinamide, allantoin, plant extracts (for example, aloe and witch hazel). Such products relieve irritation, strengthen the barrier and improve the overall condition of the skin. Such products can also provide deep hydration of the scalp.

If you are concerned about severe scalp itching, your doctor will tell you how to get rid of it. And you can buy products for the care of sensitive scalp from us - on the pages of the Brazil Prof online store. You can also order professional products for home hair care from us, including various shampoos and masks - without sulfates, parabens, silicones and other potentially dangerous components.