An itchy scalp is a bothersome condition for some, as it involves frequent scratching of the head and discomfort. Along with irritation of the scalp, it also reduces one’s self-confidence when mingling with other people.
Causes
Scalp itching has various causes. According to Health Line, contact dermatitis is one. As per the publication, it refers to a condition that is characterized by red or inflamed skin after direct contact with a specific substance or object. Moreover, it is caused by an irritant or an allergen. While the condition is not usually severe, they can be uncomfortable until the itching is resolved.
Tinea capitis or ringworm of the scalp is another cause of itchy scalp. It refers to a fungal infection that affects the scalp and as per the publication, the infection results to small patches of itchy and scaly skin on the scalp. A person can get ringworm when he touches the skin of an infected individual, as well as when he uses combs, linen, or other articles that have been used by that person.
Another cause for itchy scalp is head lice. According to the publication, a person may become infected with head lice when they crawl onto the person’s head. Head lice infestation may result from touching one’s head to an infected person’s head, sharing personal items like comb, and using a fabric item after an infected person used it.
Signs and Symptoms
Itchy scalp is accompanied by several symptoms. According to Dr. Axe’s official website, itching comes along with redness, swelling, balding, damaged hair, and skin infections.
Home Remedies
In line with the condition, the following are some remedies a person can do.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is one of the natural remedies for itchy scalp. According to Dr. Axe’s official website, the oil is also known as melaleuca and it has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. This suggests that tea tree oil is capable of fighting microbes, such as viruses, fungi, and bacteria. As per the study published in the “International Journal of Dermatology,” findings revealed that the oil has demonstrated efficacy when it comes to dealing with inflammatory symptoms, which cover seborrheic dermatitis.
In a trial published in the “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology,” it was found that participants who used a shampoo with five percent tea tree oil reported an improvement of 41 percent. This helped them relieve itchy scalp and dandruff.
Acid
Lemon juice and apple cider vinegar are two remedies for an itchy scalp, since they are both acids, which may provide an unfavorable environment to the cause of the itch. Lemon juice helps treat an itchy and dry scalp, as it has antiseptic properties. To prepare, fresh lemon juice is thoroughly applied on the scalp and is left on for five minutes. Next, the hair is shampooed. The lemon juice is diluted in water if dandruff is absent. Also, the lemon juice can be mixed with yogurt and is applied on the scalp before the hair is washed with a mild shampoo. The process is done daily until resolution of itchiness and dryness.
Meanwhile, apple cider vinegar has potent anti-inflammation properties, which aids destroy viruses and fungi that cause scalp itching. In addition, apple cider helps balance the pH levels on the scalp. As per the person, the person rinses his hair and scalp with water and allows it to dry. Then, water and apple cider vinegar are added and the mixture is poured into a spray bottle. Once done, the mixture is applied directly onto the scalp with the help of cotton balls. After few minutes, the hair is shampooed with normal water.
An itchy scalp is not as serious as cancer or tuberculosis, but the discomfort it gives each day serves as a punishment to the person who is affected. Thus, it is vital to seek medical consult for proper assessment, planning, and implementation.
