Itchy Scalp Hair Loss
Are Itchy Scalp and Hair Loss Linked Together?
For years now people have been wondering whether itchy scalp and hair loss could be related. The truth is that there are certain conditions which can manifest the symptoms of itchiness, dryness, hair thinning, and even hair loss. Some are caused by bacteria while others are simply a result of excessive oil buildup. We are going to take a look at a few of the conditions that can lead to itchy scalp and hair loss, as well as the treatments available for these conditions.
Oily Hair and Scalp
The scalp has many glands which secrete an oil called sebum. The same types of pores reside all over the human body, but are especially active on the face. The sebum oil secretes into the hair follicles to coat them. This coating of oil provides protection and moisture for the hair. In some people, the sebaceous glands can become overactive, which causes an excess of oil production.
The easiest symptom to spot is greasy hair, but there are other symptoms that can crop up due to an overabundance of oil. For instance the hair follicles can become clogged with oil and skin cells. Flakes also build up on the skin and the follicles that have become blocked soon become inflamed. Inflammation leads to redness, itchiness, and general discomfort of the scalp. Bumps and sores can even develop if the blockage is quite substantial. As the buildup of oil and flakes continues, bacteria can become trapped against the scalp which can lead to further irritation that becomes increasingly difficult to treat. Treating oily hair and scalp should start with a good quality but gentle shampoo designed to tame oily hair. Don’t apply conditioner to the scalp and roots of the hair. Washing the hair with shampoo every other day and rinsing with cool water in between will keep the scalp refreshed and help to cleanse away the buildup more frequently.
Ringworm
The name for this condition can be a little misleading. Ringworm is not caused by a worm, but is actually a fungal infection caused by many different types of fungus. Humans can pass ringworm on to one another, but it can also be passed via objects such as brushes or combs, as well as from animals such as cats and dogs to humans.
The symptoms of scalp ringworm are quite obvious. The most noticeable sign is a round or oval-shaped patch on the skin. This patch is often gray and scaly in the center but red and sometimes raised along the border of the infection. This red ring is the reason this condition is called “ringworm”. The infected area can turn red, crusty, and become very scaly. Ringworm does tend to cause itchiness of the immediate area and the hair will eventually thin and fall out where ringworm is present. Ringworm should be treated immediately because the longer it is left, one’s chances of developing a kerion increase. A kerion is a puss-filled bump that develops on the scalp. If the kerion is left to ooze and grow, it can lead to scarring and the permanent loss of hair in the area. The most effective form of treatment against scalp ringworm is an oral anti-fungal medication taken over the course of six to eight weeks.
Allergies
An allergic reaction can also cause itchy scalp and hair loss. Using styling products that contain irritating compounds can increase one’s likelihood of experience an allergic reaction on the scalp. Someone who suddenly experiences an itchy scalp with or without hair loss after using a new styling product should discontinue use immediately. Hair dye can also be a huge contributor to this condition. A “patch test” should always be performed when using hair dye. This test is conducted by using the dye on only a small patch of hair, preferably a place that is unnoticeable. After 24 hours, if one has experienced itching, burning, hair loss, or other similar symptoms, then the remaining hair dye should be disposed of as these are signs of a dye allergy.