Itchy Scalp Treatment Online

An itchy scalp, also called scalp pruritus, is a common condition that makes you want to scratch your head. While it’s often harmless, it can sometimes signal an underlying issue like an allergy, dandruff, or even head lice.

An itchy scalp may have visible symptoms like flaking, redness, or scabs, but sometimes it itches without noticeable changes. It can feel uncomfortable, irritating, or even painful, depending on the cause. Many factors can trigger an itchy scalp, such as certain hair products, dry skin, or dermatitis.

One study found that around 25% of people experience an itchy scalp, making it a widespread issue. However, pinpointing the exact cause can be tricky. Understanding the possible triggers and symptoms can help you find the proper treatment to relieve the itch and improve your scalp health.

If you’re dealing with an itchy scalp, figuring out what’s causing it is essential. With the proper care and advice from a doctor, you can address the discomfort and enjoy a healthy, itch-free scalp.

An itchy scalp can feel uncomfortable, tingly, or even painful. While the itch is the main symptom, it’s often accompanied by other signs that can help identify the cause. Recognising these symptoms can guide you toward the proper treatment.

Common symptoms that may come with an itchy scalp include:

• Flakes: White flakes in your hair or on your clothes, often a sign of dandruff.
  
  
• Thick, Greasy Patches: These could indicate seborrheic dermatitis.
  
  
• Small White Nubs On Hair: Nits or lice eggs often require a visual check by a professional.
  
  
• Raised Bumps: These can be caused by scabies or allergic reactions.
  
  
• Hives: Often appear on the scalp and other areas of the body.
  
  
• Redness And Pus-filled Bumps: Signs of a scalp infection, such as ringworm, especially if hair loss is also present.
  
  
• Dry, Silvery Scales: Often linked to scalp psoriasis.
  
  
• Red, Dry Skin: Could indicate atopic dermatitis or eczema.
  
  
• Flaking Skin On The Upper Back Or Chest may suggest seborrheic dermatitis.
  
  
• Bald Patches Or Hair Loss: These Can occur with conditions like ringworm or psoriasis.
  
  

Severe itching that disrupts sleep might be due to lice or scabies. Since conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, and eczema share similar symptoms, working with a healthcare provider is often necessary to find the exact cause and the best treatment.

An itchy scalp can happen for many reasons, ranging from mild irritation to underlying medical conditions. Here are some common causes:

• Dandruff: Often caused by seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff leads to itching, flaking, and redness. It’s linked to oily skin, seasonal changes, stress, or yeast overgrowth on the skin.
  
  
• Seborrheic Dermatitis: This condition affects oily areas like the scalp, causing redness, flaking, and greasy scales. In babies, it’s known as cradle cap.
  
  
• Psoriasis: A chronic condition where the scalp develops thick, itchy, scaly patches called plaques. These can appear red with white scales on lighter skin and brown or purple with grey scales on darker skin.
  
  
• Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): This causes dry, itchy, inflamed skin, which may appear red on pale skin or grey, brown, or purple on darker skin. Triggers include shampoos, soaps, or other irritants.
  
  
• Tinea Capitis (Scalp Ringworm): A fungal infection causing an itchy rash, hair loss, and sometimes swollen lymph nodes. It can spread from pets or other people.
  
  
• Head Lice: Tiny insects that feed on blood and cause severe itching. They are easily spread through close contact.
  
  
• Contact Dermatitis: An allergic reaction to hair products, like hair dye, can cause itching and rashes.
  
  
• Scalp Build-Up: Not rinsing shampoo or conditioner thoroughly can irritate the scalp, causing flaking and itching.
  
  
• Other Causes:
  
  
• Hives: Red, raised, itchy bumps that can appear on the scalp.
  
  
• Scabies: Mites burrow into the scalp, causing intense itching.
  
  
• Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like discoid lupus or alopecia can lead to itching and inflammation.
  
  

If you’re experiencing persistent or severe itching, it’s essential to identify the cause with a healthcare provider to find the best treatment.

The treatment for an itchy scalp depends on its cause. Once the cause is identified, specific remedies can help relieve the itch and restore scalp health.

Common Treatments

• Dandruff Or Seborrheic Dermatitis: Frequent hair washing with medicated shampoos or treatments can reduce dandruff and flaking. Common ingredients include:
  
  
• Antifungal creams.
  
  
• Keratolytics like salicylic acid or coal tar to reduce scaling.
  
  
• Pyrithione zinc to soothe the scalp.
  
  
• Corticosteroid lotions for severe inflammation.
  
  
• Head Lice: Lice are treated using pediculicide shampoos or medications that kill lice. A fine-tooth comb can remove nits (lice eggs), while the treatment eliminates active lice. Additionally:
  
  
• Wash clothing, bedding, and towels in water above 130°F to kill lice.
  
  
• Treat close contacts to prevent reinfection.
  
  
• Tinea Capitis (Scalp Ringworm): Antifungal medications are prescribed to kill the fungus causing the infection.
  
  
• Psoriasis: Treatments may include medicated shampoos, corticosteroid lotions, or psoriasis-specific medications to reduce scales and itchiness.
  
  
• Allergic Reactions: If a hair product causes an allergic reaction, stop using it immediately. Consult a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.
  
  

General Scalp Care

Moisturising creams, ointments, and shampoos for sensitive skin can help soothe irritation and keep the scalp hydrated.

If your itchy scalp continues or worsens, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your condition.

Taking care of your scalp can help stop it from getting itchy. Here are some simple tips to keep your scalp healthy:

• Wash your hair regularly with a gentle shampoo.
  
  
• Use scalp-friendly, fragrance-free hair products.
  
  
• Keep your scalp moisturised with conditioner or hydrating shampoos.
  
  
• Avoid sharing combs, brushes, hats, or towels.
  
  
• Test new hair products on a small area before full use.
  
  
• Eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of water.
  
  
• Limit the use of heat-styling tools like hairdryers or straighteners.
  
  
• Protect your scalp from sunburn with hats or sunscreen sprays.

Mobi Doctor can help you manage an itchy scalp by providing expert advice and personalised treatment plans through online consultations. Whether it’s dandruff, lice, or an allergy, our doctors can guide you toward the best solutions from the comfort of your home.