How to Handle an Itchy Scalp, According to Experts

Stop the itch with these expert-proven remedies.

Dealing with an itchy scalp is a common yet very annoying experience. It's that relentless itch that often finds us absentmindedly scratching our heads, disrupting our focus during daily tasks—including that important Zoom call with your boss about your promotion.

The good news? You don’t have to live with an itchy scalp forever as long as you get to the root of the cause.  

According to experts, the reason for your discomfort could be anything from your body reacting to stress to a more complex condition like psoriasis. In this article, we’ll help you identify possible triggers and offer guidance on managing—and potentially resolving—your itchy scalp problems.

Common Causes and Symptoms

An itchy scalp can be triggered by several factors, says Anna Chacon, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and medical reviewer for MyPsoriasisTeam. The most common triggers are dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis, she notes. "[These] occur due to yeast overgrowth on the scalp," she says, and are the most common culprits behind the bothersome itch and flaking.

Some less common conditions include psoriasis (an autoimmune condition) and contact dermatitis stemming from reactions to hair products, adds Dr. Chacon. Lastly, the presence of head lice, which may feel like bugs are “having a party on your scalp,” is another potential cause of your never-ending scalp itching, she says.

Typically, when you have an itchy scalp, it is accompanied by flaky skin (dandruff), dry skin, oily skin, inflamed skin (red, puffy, and heated), or raised bumpy skin, says Enrizza P. Factor, MD, a clinical dermatologist and researcher with MyEczemaTeam.

Ways to Stop an Itchy Scalp

An itchy scalp can be more than just annoying. It can disrupt your focus, sleep, and even social interactions with the people you love the most. However, according to our experts, there are ways to tackle an itchy scalp at home before resorting to medical intervention (more on that in a bit). Here are some things you can do.

• Wash your hair regularly with a mild shampoo. The build-up of oils, dirt, and hair products can exacerbate scalp irritation. Regular shampooing with a mild shampoo helps maintain a clean scalp, reducing the likelihood of itching. However, it's crucial to avoid over-washing or using harsh shampoos, as this can strip your scalp of natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation—and ultimately more itchiness.
  

• Use a conditioner to moisturize your scalp. A hydrated scalp is less likely to itch. Using a conditioner post-shampoo can help lock in moisture. Always opt for products specifically designed to hydrate the scalp, particularly those free from sulfates and parabens, which can irritate sensitive skin.
  

• Avoid using harsh hair products. Many styling products, including gels and hairsprays, contain chemicals that can irritate the scalp. Ingredients like sulfates, parabens, alcohol, synthetic fragrances, dyes, and propylene glycol can provoke itchiness, especially for those of us with sensitive skin or pre-existing scalp conditions. Use hypoallergenic products when you can and thoroughly rinse the shampoo from your hair and scalp, suggests Dr. Factor.
  

• Apply a cool compress. For immediate, short-term relief, a cool compress can soothe an itchy scalp. The coolness can help dull the itch receptors in the skin, reducing the sensation. But keep in mind that this is only a temporary solution.
  

• Perform a scalp massage. Massaging the scalp can increase blood circulation, promoting skin health and easing tension and itchiness. Using your fingertips, apply gentle pressure and rub in small circles, covering the entire scalp.
  

• Use essential oils. Certain natural oils, such as tea tree or peppermint oil, have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can alleviate itchiness when massaged into the scalp. However, they must be diluted with a carrier oil (such as jojoba oil) to prevent further irritation. Also, they should be patch-tested on a small area of skin to check for potential allergic reactions.

Medical Treatments for Itchy Scalp

Scalp itching requires a distinct strategy for treatment, and each case is unique, says Dr. Factor. ”When at-home remedies don’t quite help alleviate the itching in your scalp, going the medical route is your next best bet."

Below are some common medical treatments for itchy scalp, according to our experts. 

Medicated Shampoos

Specialized shampoos containing ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, coal tar, and salicylic acid can help manage conditions like dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis.

Topical Steroids

Topical steroids are creams or ointments that can reduce inflammation and alleviate itching. They're often prescribed for itchy scalps that stem from psoriasis or severe seborrheic dermatitis.

Antihistamines

If your scalp itchiness is related to an allergic reaction, antihistamines can be your best friend, as they help control itching. However, it’s equally important to steer clear of the irritant that caused the allergic reaction in the first place.

Antibiotics or Antifungal Treatments

In some cases, a bacterial or fungal infection might be causing the itchiness. For these scenarios, healthcare providers may prescribe antibiotics or antifungal treatments.

Light Therapy

Phototherapy helps treat various itchy skin conditions, including scalp psoriasis. This treatment should only be used with professional supervision, though.

Side Effects

These medical treatments might have side effects, too, notes Dr. Chacon. For example, medicated shampoos could cause dryness or irritation, topical steroids need to be used sparingly to avoid skin thinning, antihistamines could lead to drowsiness, and antibiotics or antifungal treatments might cause an upset stomach.

A holistic approach, including proper hair care, stress management, and appropriate medical consultation, is vital to relieve yourself of the itch. But managing an itchy scalp goes beyond quick fixes—it requires understanding its underlying causes, from lifestyle choices to potential medical issues.

“If your scalp itchiness persists for more than a week, is severe, or is accompanied by symptoms such as hair loss, sores, or a rash, it's time to seek professional help," Dr. Chacon advises.

Related: This $15 'Miracle Shampoo' Clears Dandruff and Stimulates Hair Growth, According to Shoppers

For more Shape news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on Shape.