7 common causes of scalp itching

Could an itchy scalp be a sign of hair loss?

Itchy scalp - 7 causes of itchy scalp and tips to get rid of the problem

Why does my scalp itch? Is this a question you recognize? If so, you are not alone! Itchy scalp is a common problem that many people suffer from. But what is it that causes an itchy scalp? In this article, we explore the most common causes of itchy scalp and focus on ways to get rid of the problem. Read on to find out more!

7 common causes of scalp itching

An itchy scalp can have many different causes - most often it's due to something in your daily routine that doesn't quite match how your scalp wants to feel. It can also be a sign of some kind of skin disease. Here are 7 of the most common reasons why your scalp itches

1. Shampoo with sulphates
2. You wash your hair too often
3. Dandruff
4. Stress
5. Dry scalp
6. Wrong styling products
7. Eczema, psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis

1. Shampoos with sulphates can cause an itchy scalp

Sulfates are a type of ingredient found in many shampoos and cleaning products. They are effective at removing dirt and grease, but they can also be irritating to the skin. If you have sensitive skin or if you already suffer from seborrhea (a skin disease that causes oily and flaky skin), sulphates can make your symptoms worse.

There are several alternatives to shampoos with sulphates that are more gentle on your skin. Try a sulfate-free shampoo with natural ingredients.

2. Washing your hair too often can cause an itchy scalp

Washing your hair too often can cause an itchy scalp. It is a common mistake to think that you have to wash your hair every day to keep it looking healthy and beautiful. In fact, on the contrary, it can be detrimental to the hair, and in some cases it can even cause an itchy scalp.

There are several reasons why washing your hair too often can cause an itchy scalp. Not only does it dry out the skin on the scalp, but it also removes the natural oils that protect and nourish the skin. This makes it easier for bacteria and fungi to attack and irritate the skin, which in turn leads to itching.

To get rid of an itchy scalp, you should therefore avoid washing your hair too often. Aim to wash your hair 2-3 times a week at most and be sure to use a sulfate-free shampoo.

3. Dandruff can cause an itchy scalp

Dandruff is a common cause of an itchy scalp. Dandruff is dry, whitish flakes that form on your scalp from dead skin cells and sebum. Dandruff can be irritating and difficult to get rid of. However, there are some things you can do to prevent dandruff:

- Try to wash your hair often, but not too often. Washing your hair too often can make it dry and irritated, which in turn can lead to dandruff. Washing your hair one to three times a week is usually enough to keep it clean and healthy.

- Avoid shampoos that contain sulfates or alcohol, as they remove too much of the sebum from your scalp and thus dry out your scalp.

4. Stress can cause an itchy scalp

Stress can cause a variety of physical and mental health problems, including an itchy scalp. Stress causes the body to release cortisol and other hormones that can disrupt the normal balance of chemicals in your body. When this happens, it can lead to an increase in inflammation throughout the body, including on the scalp. This inflammation triggers itching due to increased nerve endings in the skin that have become hypersensitive due to stress hormones.

Long-term elevated levels of stress suppress our immune system, which in people with underlying conditions such as eczema or psoriasis can lead to flare-ups and more itching than usual.

5. Dry itchy scalp

Dry scalp can cause an itchy scalp. It's usually not a serious problem, but it can be annoying. If you have a dry scalp, try using a mild shampoo and moisturizing conditioner designed for dry hair. Avoid products that contain sulfates or alcohol, as these can further dry out your scalp. Exfoliate your scalp regularly with a gentle scrub to remove dead skin cells and stimulate circulation.

6. Excessive styling

Excessive styling and products with too many chemicals can cause an itchy scalp. This is a common problem that occurs when you use too much wax, gel or mousse in your hair, or when you wash your hair too often with shampoos containing lots of chemicals.

Could an itchy scalp be a sign of hair loss?

Itchy scalp is associated with hair loss in several ways. First, an itchy scalp can be a sign of chronic inflammation at the base of the hair follicles, which can lead to damage and weakened roots that eventually cause hair loss. This inflammation can be due to many factors such as allergies or infections like ringworm or psoriasis. In addition, excessive scratching and rubbing of the scalp can cause irritation and inflammation that weakens the follicles, leading to hair breakage resulting in thinning hair or bald patches.

Secondly, an itchy scalp can also indicate a fungal infection called seborrheic eczema, a type of dandruff. Dandruff is caused by the overgrowth of yeast on the skin's surface and causes scaling of the scalp along with itching. If left untreated, this condition can lead to further damage causing significant hair loss from both active hairs and newly dormant ones, which will result in an overall decrease in the volume/thickness of your hair over time.

Finally, if you experience itching along with other symptoms such as redness/irritation or even pain, you should immediately consult a doctor as these may point to some kind of allergic reaction which may require medical attention for proper diagnosis treatment plan including medications/lifestyle changes etc.

The products below are perfect for combating an itchy scalp.