An itchy flaky scalp can be quite embarrassing and discomforting for a person. Read this story to know the causes and treatment options to get rid of it.
An Itchy scalp can annoy and irritate a person to no end. A person suffering from this condition cannot stop the urge to scratch his head again and again. It can be quite embarrassing, especially if the person is in a public place. Here are the reasons why people suffer from this, followed by some effective medical and home treatments for the same.
Causes
Dandruff: One of the most common causes is dandruff. Dandruff occurs on the scalp because of a fungus known as pityrosporum ovale that feeds on the oils secreted by the human glands. If the scalp is not kept clean, it results in dandruff. Dandruff also occurs if the person consumes food that is too sweet, salty or spicy. In some cases, dandruff runs in families and is inherited from one generation to another. Excess dandruff for a very long time can result in an itchy scalp and hair loss.
Seborrheic Dermatitis: This problem could also be due to a condition known as seborrheic dermatitis. The main causes behind this skin condition are stress, change of season (gets severe during winters), diseases such as AIDS, Parkinson's disease, and lastly, a yeast that grows on the scalp known as malassezia.
Seborrheic Eczema: This is an inflammatory skin condition that causes scaly itchy skin. There are two main causes behind seborrheic eczema, namely, over production of oil and a yeast called malassezia. This itchy skin problem, is often hereditary and passed from one generation to another.
Psoriasis: Due to this condition, dead skin cells get accumulated and form a thick flaky layer on the scalp.
Allergy: This issue can also be due to an allergic reaction caused by the usage of shampoos or other hair products that contain chemicals which do not suit the person.
Medical Treatment
The treatment will depend on the reason behind this condition. If it is caused due to a yeast or fungal infection, a dermatologist should be consulted. The dermatologist will do a thorough examination of the scalp and suggest medication such as topical steroid creams, to treat the condition.
An Itchy scalp caused due to an allergic reaction from some hair product can be avoided and treated by discontinuing such products with strong chemicals, and shifting to milder or herbal products.
Itchy flaky scalp due to psoriases can be treated by application of topical corticosteroid lotions, gels, and solutions. Certain shampoos and oils with corticosteroid may also be used as treatment for scalp psoriasis.
Home Remedies
Apple Cider Vinegar: Use apply cider vinegar on the scalp. For this, first of all, clean the hair and the scalp using a mild shampoo. Now mix together two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with one tablespoon of lukewarm water. Add a few drops of natural oils such as rosemary oil.
Apply this mixture on the hair and the scalp, and massage with your fingertips for about ten minutes. Leave the mixture on for some time till it is dry, and then wash it off. Repeat this treatment twice every week till you get rid of the itchy scalp.
Fenugreek Seeds: Take about two tablespoons of fenugreek seeds and keep them overnight soaked in water. By morning, the seeds will become soft. Take these seeds and grind them to form a smooth mixture.
Add two teaspoons of lemon juice to it, and apply the mixture on the hair and scalp. Leave the mixture for about an hour and then wash it off. Regular application of fenugreek seeds will help in curing dandruff and the resultant itch and flaking.
Besides these treatments, there are a number of things that a person can do to get rid of this condition. Conditioning the scalp and hair, post washing, is a way to keep the skin on the scalp hydrated, and hence, cure a dry, itchy scalp.
Massaging the scalp with oils as well as brushing the hair few times a day helps in improving the circulation, and hence, helps avoid dandruff. Lastly, supplementing the diet with foods that contain zinc and vitamin B is also very effective in preventing and curing itchy flaky scalp.
Disclaimer: This story is for informative purposes only, and should not be replaced for the advice of a medical professional.