Do you have an itchy head that you just can't scratch? If these tingling and tingling go far beyond what seems normal, you might be wondering what the culprit is. Is it an allergy? Infection? Something even more serious? We've compiled some common (and unusual) causes of an itchy scalp, as well as information on what you can do to stop itching for good.
USUAL SUSPECTS
The flaky, itchy dandruff that plagues half the population has three main causes: oily scalp (not dry), buildup of dead skin or styling products, or a yeast called malassesia. Rub the shampoo vigorously into the scalp (not just the hair) to get rid of product buildup, but if flaking persists, use a shampoo containing zinc or salicylic acid, which treat fungus, buildup, and oil; tryHead & Shoulders Classic Clean Shampoo ($6, amazon.com). Still itchy after a few weeks? You may need to visit the dermis to see if something else is going on.
HIDDEN INGREDIENTS
"Ingredients in some hair products can cause an allergic reaction," says Maria Hordinski, MD, professor and chair of the Department of Dermatology at the University of Minnesota at Minneapolis. "The allergen is often a fragrance or moisturizing agent called propylene glycol." If the whole head itches, stop using these suspects for a week; if irritation subsides, replace old products with unscented or PG products (for the latter, try the lineAlba Botanica available in pharmacies and Target.com). Burning from styling tools such as hair dryers, flat irons, and curling irons can also dry out the scalp and cause itching, so keep the temperature at a moderate level.
When you're itchy in just one spot, it could be a skin condition like psoriasis, an autoimmune disease that causes raised, scaly patches, says dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. If your dermatologist determines this is the case, use a coal tar shampoo - sounds weird, but it works. If necessary, your doctor may prescribe stronger drugs.
One itch that's rare but shouldn't be ignored: A hard spot about a quarter-inch in diameter could be a precancerous lesion called actinic keratosis, the result of years of prolonged sun exposure, Khordinsky says. About 10 percent of them become cancerous, so go to your dermis as soon as possible to check and, if necessary, remove. Get rid of future damage with a sunscreen specially formulated for the scalp, such asBanana Boat Sport Quik Dri Scalp Spray Yes, even in winter.
This article originally appeared in the January/February 2018 issue of Women's Health magazine. For another great tip, buy the newsstand issue now!
