An itchy scalp is one of the most common, and most annoying, problems that a person can encounter when dealing with scalp-related issues. There are a number of things that can cause the head to itch, including dermatitis, parasites, and drys skin, and sometimes the best way to approach the problem is through trial and error. There are some things an individual can do to help determine the cause and find a quicker solution, however.
Even thinking about an itchy scalp can cause people to scratch their heads, but in most cases, the cause is not mental, but physical. Contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, head lice, and dry skin all can play a role, and each needs to be discovered or ruled out in order to come up with an effective treatment strategy.
The most important thing to do is determine whether or not the scalp itch is caused by lice. These small parasites, if present, often move around in the hair laying eggs and causing severe itching, especially behind the ears and at the base of the neck. Lice are often treated with a specially-medicated shampoo, available at most pharmacies. They can usually be seen by a person when checking the hair. If treated, it is also important to thoroughly wash all clothes, hats, bedding material and furniture to ensure future infestations do not occur.
Lice should be detected as soon as possible because they can spread to other people very easily. Children who have lice can often pass them on to classmates or siblings, especially those living in the same household. These parasites are a serious nuisance and a public health concern, and therefore should be treated immediately.
Seborrheic dermatitis, or dandruff, is another common cause of an itchy scalp. This is caused by an overproduction of skin cells that can lead to excessive dryness. Dandruff is easily recognizable in the form of white flakes. A number of shampoos are available to specifically combat this condition, and most also offer a great deal of relief for itchy conditions as well.
Contact dermatitis is caused by an irritation that develops when the scalp comes into contact with something. This could be a type of clothing, but most often, it is caused by the type of shampoo or soap a person uses. The best way for a person to combat this problem is to switch shampoo brands and always make sure the hair is thoroughly rinsed and dried after each shower.
The scalp may also itch if the head becomes excessively dry. The best way for a sufferer to relieve dry scalp is to switch soaps or shampoos to one that is gentle and moisturizing. Making sure hair is thoroughly dried after showers and swimming also helps because it allows the natural oils in the scalp and the hair to return uninhibited. Brushing with a clean brush helps distribute these oils uniformly over the entire head.