Itchy Scalp Causes and Treatment

Causes –

Dandruff and Dermatitis: When there is response of the body to a yeast overgrowth known to be mostly caused by dandruff or dermatitis. Then it can trigger severe form of itching resulting into flakes present on the scalp. Yeast is known to be mostly found in the scalp region as well as other parts of the body where most of the hair is located. The presence of the yeast is quite common and when there is over presence then it tends to become a problem. Dandruff is known to mostly occur on the scalp and then it involves flaking of the skin and itchiness.

Psoriasis: It is basically a chronic autoimmune disorder that leads to red coloured scaly and itchy patches on the scalp.

Tinea capitis: This is basically a fungal infection or also known as ringworm which can infect the scalp thereby leading to irritation and itchiness. It is known to mostly happen by a deep extension of the fungus which occurs in the hair follicles thereby developing into round patches of hair loss. This fungus is also known to live on the dead tissues present in the hair, outer skin regions and nail.

Lice present on the head: Head lice is seen as a common scenario for school children. They can enter into anyone’s scalp and lead to itchiness on the skin.  Few of the symptoms of head lice are common form of itching on the scalp, ears and neck region. This basically occurs due to an allergic reaction to the saliva which is produced by the lice. The eggs of the lice in certain cases are super tiny and it gets attached to the strand of the hair hence it can also appear as a dandruff but unlike the flakes which can be shaken off easily, these ones do not shake off and have a firm grip to the hair shaft.

Allergic reactions: Use of hair dyes, eczema and atopic dermatitis are all known to cause an itchiness in the scalp. Foods are also known to cause allergic reactions, few of those food items can be processed food, soy items, sugary items or peanuts. They are known to contain inflammation and fungus which can ultimately lead to such reactions.

Treatment –

Shampoos for providing relief from itchiness: Those shampoos which contain sodium lauryl sulfate or sodium laureth surfactants are good for providing relief from itchiness in the scalp.

Lemon: The juice of lemon is known to contain some incredible antiseptic properties which is known to cause soothing to the itchiness present in the head. You can just apply some fresh lemon juice on to the scalp and leave it for around five to ten minutes after which you can rinse your hair.

Baking Soda: The alkaline characteristics present in baking soda is known to play an important role for balancing out the pH levels of the hair thereby providing relief from itchiness in the scalp. Make a paste of baking soda and water and then apply it directly on to the scalp. To get best results you can also rub few drops of olive oil on the scalp before applying the paste of baking soda. Allow this paste to soak into the scalp for around ten to fifteen minutes and then rinse it properly with water.

Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is considered to be a well-known remedy for most of the conditions. It helps to provide ease to the itching scalp. You can massage few drops of coconut oil on the scalp and allow it to stay for few minutes and then rinse it out with a mild shampoo. Coconut oil basically creates a barrier which helps in maintaining the moisture of the skin hence it is termed to be very much effective. Gently heat coconut oil so that it melts well and add it to your regular use shampoo before you wash your hair.

Apple cider vinegar: Spraying little apple cider vinegar on to the scalp and it can work wonders on the itchiness of the scalp. This remedy is known to have powerful anti-inflammatory wonders which can help in killing the yeast as well as the virus which has caused itchy scalp. It also helps to balance the pH levels of the scalp thereby providing relief from dryness and itching.