Dandruff is not the only cause of an itchy scalp, although it is one of the top reasons that this itchiness occurs. Sometimes you need to get rid of an itchy scalp by examining the true diagnosis of the skin condition.
Common Reasons the Head Itches
As mentioned already dandruff (a.k.a. Seborrhea) is a main cause of scalp itching. Oftentimes a person who struggles with this condition notices that the skin is flaking and that the scalp is red. This could be a result of dry scalp caused by using the wrong shampoo, or it could be an allergy to a hair soap, conditioner, or styling product.
Another main origin of itching is psorisasis, which is a condition marked by scalp dryness, and red patches and scaling. This condition could also affect a person on the skin, elbows, knees, and genitals.
The third primary cause of scalp itchiness is headlice. This is a condition that should be taken care of immediately so you do not spread it around, especially to other children. Other adults could also become infected by lice, too. No one is immune.
Yet one more reason people may have an itchy scalp or skin is because of ringworm.
Here are some general facts to help you get rid of itchy scalp (by type of main condition):
- Consult a skin/hair care specialist or see a doctor. Before you choose a shampoo or dandruff care product, you are advised to seek a skin care or haircare specialist. You also should consider seeing a doctor to verify that it is dandruff and not another condition, especially if the flaking is severe. In some cases, a medication is needed to get rid of all the flakiness and itchiness.
- Find the right shampoo. After you have had your scalp and hair examined you are more than likely to receive information about the right kind of shampoo. Milder cases of itchiness and dryness can be taken care of using the appropriate brand name shampoo.
However, more severe cases may require a prescription scalp shampoo or medicinal treatment. The products or medicines you use depends on how severe the dandruff, head-lice or psoriasis is, and of course the solutions used are specific to symptoms/condition you have.
- Have someone your hair and scalp. If someone you know is able to spot head-lice, nits, and eggs at every growth stage the lice the lice can be easier removed. The sooner that this invasive bug is found nexting on the crown, side, and back of your head, the sooner you can eliminate it. Check behind the ears too.
- Refrain from itching your head. This will particularly help stop psoriasis from scabbing or spreading. It also helps prevent transmission of lice and eggs to another individual. It also helps stop flakes of dandruff from falling when you least want it to.
- Change your diet. If you take in enough B complex vitamins as well as enough supply of Vitamin A and E it will keep your scalp moisturized. As a result, you have less chance of experiencing dryness and itching.
As far as what foods to eat, include a balanced among of green and leafy vegetables as well as vegetables of other colors (i.e. orange, yellow, light green). Eat moderate servings of lean beef, or eat fish and chicken.
Cut down on high-fat foods such as bacon, deep fried meat, fried potatoes, and so on. Eating low fat foods helps prevent scalp oiliness versus scalp dryness.
- Participate in relaxation activities. Yoga, massage, saunas, and baths are way to reduce stress. This reduction in anxiety and distress will help improve the circulation to your scalp and thus will keep it healthier.
- Brush your hair regularly. This is one more way to get rid of an itchy scalp because it provides a similar benefit as a scalp massage. It helps improve the blood flow to the brain and helps send more blood to the scalp when you need it.
More Info
Most of the tips mentioned above help deal with cases of scalp dryness, itching, or scaling. Additionally, when head-lice is detected you can finally get rid of itchy scalp. However, beware of ring worms.
This is a skin condition that often requires an oral or anti fungal medication. You might also be given a anti-fungal shampoo as recommended by your doctor during your checkup.
In some cases, home remedies have also been successfully applied to help relieve all itchiness, dryness, and scaling (regardless of origin or condition): Tea tree oil, natural topical treatments, or herbal supplements. Use these or any prescription medicine with care.
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