Whats The Connection Between An Itchy Scalp And Hair Loss
Although they can arise separately, we can find a thin line between these two conditions. Heres what connects them most often:
- Allergic reactions to hair products can cause scalp itching, damage hair follicles, and lead to hair loss.
- Scar tissue formed after hair loss can lead to itching.
- If you scratch your scalp aggressively, you are likely to damage your skin and hair follicles, which automatically leads to hair loss.
Its vital to mention that hereditary hair loss has nothing to do with this topic. In these cases, itching wont be the main culprit for your hair loss, but guess who will? Heritage!
Is An Itchy Scalp Related To Hair Loss Scalp Itching And Shedding Explained
Having an itchy scalp can be an annoying occurrence, but it doesnât necessarily mean that something is going on with your scalp or hair.
An itchy scalp from time to time can be a perfectly normal thing to happen. But, it may also signal scalp concerns like dandruff, psoriasis, ringworm on the scalp, or an allergic reaction. It is important to take note of anything else going on with the skin on your scalp to help identify any root cause.
If you are experiencing hair loss or excessive shedding at the same time as dealing with an itchy scalp, there may be a few scenarios where they may be connected. Luckily, most of the time, treating the underlying issue with the scalp can help stop the hair loss and may allow your hair to regrow in time.
Below, we will cover just what sorts of scalp issues may cause itchiness, which scalp conditions may also come along with some degree of hair loss, and discuss if male or female pattern hair loss can be connected to scalp itching.
Causes Of Itchy Scalp Leading To Hair Loss
The following conditions can cause an itchy scalp and hair loss:
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What Is The Best Shampoo For Getting Rid Of Candida
When you have an overgrowth of yeast on the scalp, dealing with it from the inside probably wont get rid of it altogether. Using a topical treatment is necessary to help heal the skin and soothe the symptoms.
One of the best shampoos for candida is Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo. This shampoo is meant to treat a variety of different scalp conditions. It can help with severe symptoms like itching and flaking, giving you relief from the buildup of yeast on your scalp.
You can also use an anti-dandruff shampoo to help with candida, such as Nizoral A-D. Nizoral is specifically formulated to stop the growth of yeast and get rid of the fungus. The main ingredient in Nizoral is Ketoconazole. This ingredient works by killing fungus at the core. It will also help to get rid of the buildup of dead skin cells on your scalp. This will reduce the appearance of unsightly dandruff and flaking.
You dont need to use shampoos like Neutrogena T/Gel or Nizoral A-D every day. They are developed with potent formulas that are designed to be used only a few times a week for best results. Its not enough to just get rid of the symptoms of yeast overgrowth. These shampoos do that, but they also work to get to the root of the problem and deal with the fungal issues caused by too much yeast.
How Will Onion Juice Help With An Itchy Scalp
Onions have antimicrobial qualities which will combat infections. Onion juice or pulp has also been used since time immemorial for curing dandruff, which causes an itchy scalp.
How to apply: Take a new juicy onion, dont take one that looks dry. Peel and grate the onion, and squeeze out the juice. If you dont mind the pulp with onion bits on your hair, then dont squeeze, simply use the pulp. Apply the juice or pulp on your scalp using a cotton ball. Leave it on for 20 minutes and then rinse it off with a mild shampoo and lukewarm water.
Frequency of treatment: You can use this treatment once every week.
Tip: Cover your head with a shower cap while you wait, since the pungency of onions will cause your eyes to water.
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When To Worry About Scalp Itchiness
Most of thetime, an itchy scalp isnt cause for concern. But there are times when it canindicate something more serious. See your doctor when:
- Over-the-counter shampoos dont make any difference.
- The itching keeps you up at night and affects your work or study.
- You see lice or nits in your hair.
- The itchy spots are very sore to the touch.
Dr. Piliangsays that its always a good idea to see your dermatologist when you have apersistent itchy scalp even if you think its just common dandruff. Yourdermatologist can check it out and tell you which remedies will bring you somerelief.
An Attack On Hair Follicles
In alopecia areata, your immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, causing hair to fall out — often suddenly. Most people will have one or two bald patches, which can be treated easily with injections but in some cases all body hair falls out. Alopecia areata isn’t harmful or contagious, but it can be tough psychologically. Hair may grow back on its own, and treatment may help it grow back more quickly. Unfortunately, some people may experience alopecia areata repeatedly.
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Preventing An Itchy Scalp At Night
There are a few ways to reduce the likelihood of an itchy scalp at night. In addition to treating any skin conditions that are causing your scalp to itch, sleep experts recommend making certain adjustments to your sleeping area, including:
- Make sure your sheets and pillowcases are clean and made of material that wont trigger itching or irritation.
- Consider running a humidifier near your bed. This infuses the air with moisture, which may reduce itchiness.
- Keep your room at around 65 F. Cooler sleeping temperatures have been shown to help with the bodys own temperature regulation.
Traction Alopecia Damages Follicles
Pulling hair too tight — as can happen with ponytails, braids, and cornrows — can damage hair follicles and cause hair to break or fall out. Hair extensions and hairpieces can sometimes cause traction alopecia, too, because their extra weight pulls on existing hair. Changing your hairstyle usually lets hair grow back. Pulling hair back tightly for a long time, though, can lead to permanent hair loss.
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White Flakes Pose No Health Risk
Dandruff isn’t contagious. So how do you get it? Doctors aren’t sure, but one theory is that it may be due to an overgrowth of a fungus. Other possible risk factors include oily skin, stress, obesity, cold, dry weather, and having eczema or psoriasis. Although it’s embarrassing — and the itching can be bothersome — dandruff isn’t harmful.
What Causes Itchy Scalp
There are many possible causes of an itchy scalp. Common conditions include:
- Dandruff white, dry flakes of dead skin on your scalp and hair from excessive skin production. Usually theres no obvious cause, but sometimes its caused by seborrhoeic dermatitis.
- Seborrhoeic dermatitis inflammation of the scalp that causes itch and skin flaking. It can lead to cradle cap in babies.
- Psoriasis a chronic skin condition that causes raised red scaly areas of skin .
- Tinea a fungal infection of the skin causing red, flaky patches and itching. Tinea on the scalp is called tinea capitis.
- Head lice contagious small insects that live in your hair and cause itching.
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Most Common Causes Of Scalp Inflammation And Hair Loss
If your scalp is irritated, if it itches, if it is inflamed, or if you feel burning sensations on the top of your head, you may be suffering from a common but treatable condition known as scalp folliculitis. In addition to these annoying and sometimes painful symptoms, scalp folliculitis can also cause hair loss. With a proper diagnosis by a trained and experienced hair loss professional who can identify the specific source of the problem, folliculitis can be remedied, as can any resulting hair loss.
Symptoms and Causes of Folliculitis
The most impactful aspect of scalp folliculitis, and the one most responsible for hair loss, is the moderate to severe irritation of the hair follicles. This irritation, in addition to being uncomfortable, may disrupt normal hair growth when left untreated, causing follicles to weaken, die, and eventually fall out.
The most common symptoms of folliculitis include pimples, itchiness, burning sensations, or discharge along the hairline, crown of the head, or rear/sides of the scalp. Dont make the situation any worse by scratching, which will only add to the discomfort and do nothing to solve the problem.
There is no one single cause of hair folliculitis it can be the result of many different factors, including:
- Yeast
- Blockage caused by irritants like sweat, oils, and cosmetic makeup
Treatment for Hair Folliculitis and Accompanying Hair Loss
Medical Treatments For An Itchy Scalp And Hair Loss
If the annoying itching doesnt stop and you lose a lot of hair daily, its time to see a doctor. Medical treatments vary on the origin of these conditions, ranging from steroids, antifungal creams, and immunotherapy to minoxidil, finasteride, and hair transplantation.
Of course, an expert will give you the right solution according to the nature of your condition.
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Avoid Sun Damage To Hair
Too much sun can turn your hair into a brittle, dry mop that breaks and splits easily. This is especially true in those with blonde or grey hair. And if you already have thinning hair, you risk a sunburn on your scalp. Choosing hair care products with sunscreen provides some protection, although it can be hard to coat your hair evenly. That’s why it’s a good idea to wear a hat when you’re out in the sun — especially if your scalp is exposed. Choose a hat made of sun-protective fabric with UPF 30 .
Hair Analysis Not Reliable
Some companies claim they can analyze hair clippings to see if you are deficient in vitamins or have health problems. Although hair analysis can detect some poisons like lead or arsenic, findings can be inconsistent and varied. Everything from air pollution to shampoo may affect test results. The American Medical Association is against hair analysis to determine treatment.
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Reasons Your Scalp Itches And How To Get Relief
When your scalp itches, it can be difficult to think about anything else. You may feel that the itch will never stop, but relief is possible. Getting rid of the itch begins with finding out why your scalp itches. Here are 10 reasons for an itchy scalp along with dermatologists advice on what can bring relief.
Dandruff. If your scalp is dry and itchy and you see flakes on your hair or clothing, you may have dandruff.
How to get relief: If you have dandruff, using a dandruff shampoo and scalp treatments can help. You can find out how to get the best results from these products by watching the short video, How to treat dandruff.
Dandruff
Dandruff often causes visible flakes on the scalp.
Hives. These are red, raised, and very itchy bumps that can form anywhere on the skin, including the scalp. Hives tend to come and go within a few hours. Sometimes, hives go away and come back. If hives come and go for longer than 6 weeks, theyre called chronic hives.How to get relief: Hives often go away on their own, but if theyre long-lasting, treatment can help. Dermatologists frequently treat hives.
Hives
When hives form on the scalp, you’ll often have a rash of itchy red bumps that look like the ones shown here.
Can Argan Oil Help With An Itchy Scalp
Natural argan oil has great nourishing and moisturising properties for the skin as well as the hair. This is why it is becoming a hot favourite among the people and experts alike.
How to apply: Get the purest variety of argan oil you can, and use it directly from the bottle. Gently massage the oil on your scalp for a few minutes, ensuring it is absorbed totally. Leave it on overnight, and wash it off in the morning with a mild shampoo and lukewarm water.
Frequency of treatment: Use this oil at least once a week to see the difference in the itchiness and also the improved lustre in your hair.
Tip: When purchasing the oil, check the bottle for ingredients to see that there is no other substance or chemical present.
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Genes Cause 90% Of Male Hair Loss
Though hereditary, the trait may be more influenced by your mother’s family than your father’s. So a look at your maternal grandfather’s locks may give you a better clue about the future of yours. Male pattern baldness often starts with receding hair at the temples, then on the crown, leaving a horseshoe-shaped ring of hair around the sides of the head. Medications to slow hair loss include finasteride and minoxidil .