Description Scalp irritation and itch is very common. It is estimated that almost 1/2 of the general population experiences scalp itch each year. Symptoms and Signs: Scalp itch can also be accompanied by burning, sensitive scalp, flaking of the skin, scaling, and redness. If the itchiness is stress related, scabs often form on the scalp.
Causes: There are a number of causes for scalp itch. It is often seasonal, occurring during the winter months because of the concomitant drop in humidity, which causes drying of the skin. Scalp itch can also be caused by allergies, dandruff, mites, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis. Stress is also a cause for an itchy scalp, as some people unconsciously pick at their scalp. Stress can also worsen an existing skin condition like seborrhea, thus intensifying the itch. Occasionally, using inappropriate or too many hair products can irritate the scalp causing itchiness. Many hair care products on the market are too harsh for the scalp and some people's itch is a reaction to the chemicals in the products. Two particularly popular culprits are para-phenylenediamine (in home hair dyes), and glycerylthioglycolate (a perm activator). They are both known to cause itching and even blistering in sensitive individuals. What to Expect: The outcome depends on the cause, genetics, biological factors, and stress management.
Remedies
Herbs Neem is a herb that is often used in Ayurvedic medicine and has been found to be effective in the treatment of many skin disorders. Try using shampoos and scalp creams with neem in them to loosen scales, soften the scalp, and clean the hair.
Lifestyle See your naturopath or other health practitioner to determine the cause of your scalp itch. If the cause is seborrhea, psoriasis, dandruff, or lice, they must be treated. It is imperative to reduce your stress level. Work towards viable solutions to reduce daily demands and take "time-outs" for yourself to help slow down and relax. If the cause is allergies to chemicals, avoid using the offending hair care product. Regular shampoos can also be very irritating. Always choose a mild shampoo and/or conditioner, preferably one that is pH balanced (between 4.5 and 5.5). Choose a shampoo and conditioner that is best suited to your hair and scalp type. Do not use a milled bar to shampoo your hair. And do not shampoo your hair every day, as this practice strips away the natural oils that protect your scalp from dryness. Use lukewarm water when washing your hair as opposed to hot water, which tends to be too irritating and drying to the scalp. Some people find symptomatic relief from scalp itch by using shampoo with menthol in it. Reduce your intake of fatty foods and sugar, as these foods can exacerbate skin conditions.
Minerals Sulfur is important for the structural integrity of the skin. You can consume more garlic in your diet, as it is high in sulfur, or supplement with garlic tablets. Ideal sources of sulfur include dried beans, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, eggs, fish, garlic, kale, whole grains, wheat germ, turnips, onions, meats, horsetail (the herb), and the amino acids cysteine, cystine, glutathione, lysine, methionine, and taurine. Zinc is important in regulating the activity of oil glands and for maintaining healthy skin. Raw pumpkin seeds are an excellent source of zinc. Other sources include mushrooms, seafood, spinach, sunflower seeds, whole grains, soy beans and legumes, lamb chops, pork loin, chicken, eggs, milk, fish and liver. If supplementing, take 30 to 50mg daily.
Miscellaneous Some people find relief by massaging coconut oil into their scalp at night, then shampooing the next morning with a mild shampoo. Some have found relief with the use of coal tar shampoo to reduce itch and inflammation. Tea tree oil shampoo can also be beneficial.
Actions and Remedy Listings
| Avoid Harsh Hair Care Products | Coal Tar Shampoo | Do Not Shampoo Daily | | Identify Cause | Neem | Reduce Intake of Fats and Sugars | | Reduce Stress | Sulfur | Tea Tree Oil Shampoo | | Use Mild Shampoo/Conditioner | Zinc | |
See also Dandruff
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