Q. What are some causes of itchy scalp?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Itchy scalp can have a number of causes. These can range from small things, like overly dry skin or too much product buildup, to serious medical issues, such as lice or psoriasis.

The most common cause of itchy scalp is dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis. Dandruff is caused by an imbalance in the pH levels of your scalp and overproduction of natural oils on the scalp that trap dead cells and clog pores. Seborrheic dermatitis is a type of eczema that creates inflamed patches on the skin with redness and flaking.

Another frequent source of an itchy scalps is contact dermatitis, which typically occurs when someone comes into direct contact with materials like hair products and detergents that irritate the skin's surface layer, leading to inflammation.  Allergens such as dust mites may also be responsible for triggering itches in people who are allergic to them. Harsh weather conditions (hot sunny days) also often create itchiness due to increased perspiration levels causing irritation at the follicle base level on the head area .

More rare but still possible culprits include infection from viruses or bacteria present on your head—like ringworm—or more systemic symptoms due to hormonal imbalances such as psoriasis or alopecia areata (which often cause loss of hair). Normally this sort of problem needs you see your doctor about getting treatment for whatever issue is underlying it before any other treatments will work properly; otherwise you’re just treating symptoms not causes.  Furthermore heat rash can be another factor if there has been excessive exposure to long periods directly under a source such as sunlight/heat lamps over time – this allows sweat glands present around roots become inflamed creating discomfort in form itching sensation which again should be treated medically preferably under supervision physician/medical practitioner specialist depending upon severity & intensity experienced!

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Q. Hello Doctor, from past 3 weeks I have too much dandruff problem and it cause hair loss will you suggest any best solution for this?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Dealing with excessive dandruff leading to hair loss can be frustrating, but there are effective ways to address this issue. Here's what you can do:

1. Switch to a Gentle Shampoo: Opt for shampoos specifically designed for dandruff, containing ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or selenium sulfide. Use these shampoos regularly to reduce dandruff buildup.

2. Scalp Massage: Gently massage your scalp while shampooing to help remove flakes and improve blood circulation, which can promote healthier hair growth.

3. Avoid Hot Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can dry out your scalp and worsen dandruff.

4. Balanced Diet: Ensure you're eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for healthy hair and scalp, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins.

5. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate dandruff problems. Practice stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise to help manage stress levels.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Consider using diluted apple cider vinegar as a rinse after shampooing. It can help restore the scalp's pH balance and reduce dandruff.

7. Consult a Dermatologist: If the issue persists despite trying home remedies or over-the-counter solutions, seek advice from a dermatologist. They can provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific scalp condition.

Remember, consistency is key when dealing with dandruff. Give these remedies some time to work, as immediate results might not always occur. It's essential to find what works best for your scalp, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate improvements.

Taking care of your scalp health not only addresses dandruff but also aids in reducing hair loss associated with this issue. Feel free to incorporate these tips into your routine and observe how your scalp responds. If the problem persists or worsens, seeking professional guidance is always recommended.

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