Are you plagued with the dreaded condition of itchy scalp? If so, then read on and better your understanding of why the condition occurs and what you can do yourself to relieve the dreaded itch.

Itchiness is a symptom of disease in many cases. Generalized itchiness can be caused from a range of conditions, examples being conditions such as liver pathologies, various skin conditions (dermatitis, atopic conditions, psoriasis, and pediculosis) or it could very well be as a result of dry scalp that comes about when we don’t take the appropriate measures in nourishing and maintaining scalp health.

Let’s take a deeper look at what could actually be causing your itchy scalp.

Dry scalp

Some believe that by washing your hair several times a day one actually can cure dry scalp or prevent it, the fact, however, is excessive washing of hair with shampoos or soap can actually lead to symptoms appearing or becoming worse. After a hot shower, dry scalp symptoms usually can intensify causing the urge to itch even more.

Special hair products that allow a protective layer to form on the dry scalp for recovery are available out there. Harsh soaps and shampoos should be avoided. A conditioner that contains moisturizing elements should be used and applied sparingly after shampooing. The scalp actually does not require you to shampoo every day. Scientists theorize that shampooing as little as 3-4 times a week is sufficient and washing your hair less can actually aid in your hairs’ overall health.

Allergic conditions

Histamine release being the main culprit here. In allergic conditions, there is a hypersensitive reaction that causes excessive release of histamine and other substrates. The reaction being spearheaded by coming in contact with an allergen. So, the reaction is exaggerated and histamine is released in the circulatory system and dermis.

The allergen in question can be from a list of substances, i.e. dust, medicine, foods, dust mites, insects, animal fur, soaps, shampoos, household washing products, and even linen or clothing. The best thing to do in such cases is identifying the allergen and avoidance of the substances that cause the allergy in the first place or to accommodate the body to the allergen by graded exposure measures. Control of symptoms can be achieved by the use of antihistaminic medications and steroids in severe cases.

Infections

Most common being a fungal infection. Usually diagnosed by seeing distinctive margins of exfoliated skin and red skin on the scalp. A skin biopsy can confirm the diagnosis. Antifungal medications are available over the counter, however, in severe or chronic cases the best thing you can do is to go and see a specialist, i.e. dermatologist.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis a condition that manifests as hyperkeratinization in the outer most layer of the skin, the epidermis, in specific spots. The disease manifests as a result of a disruption in the usual turnover of skin cells leaving patches of raised dry scaly skin and red patches where it has been peeled off or fallen off. The immune system being the main etiological factor in this disease.

Stress

Stress hormones, adrenaline, cortisol, etc., can all cause changes in the scalp. Glands present in the scalp are sensitive to these hormones and react according to their release in the bloodstream. Sebaceous glands release an oily substance that protects the scalp and hair but when overly stimulated can cause detrimental effects.