Scratching That Itch
Does an itchy scalp mean you’re losing your hair?
Disclaimer: Your healthcare provider is the best source of health and medical information. Articles written by UPGUYS are informed by peer-reviewed studies and research, as well as governmental health authorities and agencies — but they cannot replace advice from a healthcare professional. Talk to your healthcare provider about any physical or mental health concerns you might have.
There’s nothing quite as satisfying in the human experience as scratching an itch — or better yet, having someone to scratch it for you. While itches resulting from a mosquito bite or dry skin are straightforward, an itchy scalp can be a more complex situation.
If you’re one of the millions of Canadian men experiencing hair loss, an itchy scalp might add some extra stress to an already stressful situation. But are the two actually related?
Let’s start with the good news right up front so you can take a breath. Male-pattern baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia, usually doesn’t involve a noticeably itchy scalp. Instead, it usually occurs gradually as a result of your body turning testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which has been closely linked to hair loss in men. So, in the event you are experiencing an itchy scalp, it’s unlikely it has anything to do with male-pattern balding.
That doesn’t mean that an itchy scalp should be ignored. It might be a sign that you need to make some changes to your hair care routine, or that you’re experiencing one of a wide-variety of temporary or chronic skin conditions that can cause discomfort or even pain. In some cases, these conditions can result in temporary hair loss, though unrelated to male-pattern baldness. Here are few of the potential causes and what you can do to treat them.
Shampoo/Hair Spray/Hair Care Products
Cleaning, maintaining, and styling hair is a daily experience for many people around the world. As technology and research have become more advanced, so too have the formulations that have made their way into hair care products. For example, depending on the type of shampoo, there can be as many as 30 different ingredients. Given the complexity of these formulations, it’s possible that individuals might experience an itchy scalp in reaction to one or many of the ingredients. The same goes for hair spray, conditioners, gels and waxes.
Sometimes, the solution can be as easy as switching shampoos. Certain brands and types of hair care products are marketed as “natural”, or “organic”. If they have generally fewer ingredients — especially ones to which you’re not sensitive — making the switch could be worthwhile. If you’ve tried a few different products and are still experiencing an itchy scalp, consider visiting a dermatologist to determine the root cause of the itch.
Ringworm/Folliculitis/Seborrheic Dermatitis
These three conditions are among the most common causes of an itchy scalp. Though their names can look intimidatingly scary — especially ringworm — they are mainly temporary and treatable.
- Ringworm is a fungal infection that affects the scalp and hair shafts. Symptoms vary, but usually include itchy and scaly scalp, and even bald patches on the head. It’s most common among younger children, and is highly contagious. It’s treatable with medicated shampoos or oral medication. See a dermatologist if you or someone in your household develops symptoms for ringworm
- Folliculitis can be caused by bacteria, fungus or yeast. It can also be caused by irritation as a result of shaving or tight clothing. It usually takes the form of what look like red pimples, with a hair in the middle. It often goes away on its own within two weeks, but can be treated with antibiotics or medicated shampoo if the condition persists
- Seborrheic Dermatitis symptoms usually include scaly patches, red skin and dandruff. It generally affects only the scalp, but can also affect other parts of the face and chest. It can go away on its own, but, depending on the individual, it might require further treatment. Treatments usually include soaps and shampoos.
Psoriasis
Though the three conditions listed above are either curable or manageable with treatment and extra care, on the off-chance that your itchy scalp is related to psoriasis, you may be dealing with a chronic condition long-term condition. Mild psoriasis can result in a small rash, whereas moderate and severe cases cause raised red areas topped with loose, silvery, scaling skin. It can affect areas like the knees, elbows, hands, feet, lower back, and — you guessed it — the scalp.
No matter the severity, psoriasis is treatable. A dermatologist or general practitioner can diagnose and prescribe treatment that focuses on keeping skin moist with creams and lotions. Medicated shampoos, ultraviolet light and prescription medicines can also help in alleviating symptoms.
What Was That Good News Again?
At best, an irritated and itchy scalp is a major annoyance. At worst, it can cause embarrassment, stress and anxiety. But here are a few points to remember that will hopefully limit some of the stress:
- Itchy scalps are treatable and temporary
- Itchy scalps are generally unrelated to male-pattern baldness
- Any hair loss you do experience should be temporary
If you’re experiencing hair loss due to male-pattern baldness, or any of the conditions listed above, talk to your family doctor or a dermatologist to find out treatment options available.
If hair loss is on your mind, click here to schedule a free doctor’s appointment through UPGUYS
