All You Need to Know About Scalp Problems
We’re quite guilty of prioritizing our hair’s health. That’s until we start seeing flakes or start feeling itchy on our heads. When this happens, that’s when you know that your scalp’s starting to scream for attention for some much-needed TLC, which it deserves. Without proper care and attention to our scalp, there tend to be several conditions that may arise. The good news is, much like with various hair problems, there are also a lot of treatments made available for the majority of scalp problems.
Let’s look into the different types of scalp problems, their causes, and treatments you can do to show some good loving to your scalp.
Types, Main Causes, and Treatments of Common Scalp Problems
There are different types of scalp problems. All of which can be attributed to general root causes such as fungal and bacterial infections, imbalance and irregularities in the immune system, and other common skin conditions that affect the scalp.
Let’s take a look at some of the most common scalp problems, what causes them, and possible treatments that you can look into.
Fungal Infections
Dandruff
Dandruff is caused by an overgrowth of a yeast called Malassezia on the scalp. Along with visible flaking, this scalp problem also causes redness and intense itchiness. Treating dandruff is as easy as choosing the best shampoo for this scalp problem.
Editor’s tip: We recommend using CLEAR Complete Soft Care Anti-Dandruff Shampoo. This gentle anti-dandruff shampoo has Nutrium 10, which not only gets rid of dandruff but also prevents it from recurring.
Ringworm
Ringworms are caused by fungal infections that can appear as scaly, red, bald patches anywhere on the scalp. This condition tends to affect children more than adults, but can be prevented by avoiding infection from another person or even your pet. Maintaining good hygiene would also help in preventing transmission or even the onset of the fungal infection on your scalp.
Bacterial Infections
Folliculitis
Folliculitis develops when bacteria enters your scalp through damaged hair follicles, and then causes to have red rings develop around each follicle. The good thing about this is that folliculitis tends to clear up on its own over time. It can also be prevented by washing a freshly shaved scalp more often to prevent bacteria from entering.
Impetigo
Impetigo often affects children and can be contagious. This can be caused by the Staphylococcus and Streptococcus bacteria and manifests into red sores that burst, leaving a yellow-brown crust. It can also appear like fluid-filled blisters that break and leave a sore. Impetigo usually requires seeking medical treatment. A doctor would normally prescribe a topical antibiotic cream and in more severe cases, you may even need to take antibiotic tablets as well.
Immune System-Related
Psoriasis
One of the most common scalp problems is psoriasis, which is caused by a problem with the immune system. It’s important to note that according to some findings, around half of those with psoriasis have it develop on their scalp. With this, red patches and scales tend to appear on the scalp.
Editor’s tip: Psoriasis is a long-term condition, which can be maintained by using a soothing shampoo like Dove Dermacare Scalp Soothing Moisture Shampoo. If you’re looking for the best shampoo for scalp problems, this may be it. This is because it can keep your scalp nourished, while also getting rid of other scalp problems like dandruff and itchiness.
Common Skin Conditions
Eczema
Other notable hair and scalp problems include common skin conditions like eczema. Scalp eczema can manifest into a range of symptoms, which can include flaking skin, redness, swelling, scaly patches, itchiness, and burning. When it comes to eczema, it’s important to note that it can manifest into what’s known as an eczema flare. In the chronic phase, the scalp may be itchy and scaly, while in the acute phase, it can turn painful and inflamed.
Causes of eczema can’t be zeroed in on just one root cause. It can be attributed to a variety of causes like genetics, hormonal changes, and even yeast overgrowth. Treating eczema can be done by combining lifestyle changes and swapping your traditional hair products for specially formulated ones.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis is actually considered a type of scalp eczema and is also considered a common scalp problem. Much like its overarching skin condition, seborrheic dermatitis can manifest into having dandruff, itchiness, and redness on the scalp.
Editor’s tip: A great way of preventing and treating seborrheic dermatitis is by going for a shampoo that’s focused on improving your scalp’s health like CLEAR Botanique Scalp Care Shampoo. The fact that it’s infused with more natural ingredients makes it more gentle on your scalp as it also provides deep cleansing, as well as treating the main symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis like flaking.
Other Factors
On a less severe level, scalp problems can also be attributed to our lifestyle and our environment. These factors include experiencing a high level of stress, not having a proper diet, and putting our hair and scalp under various chemical treatments like bleaching, hair dye, relaxing, rebonding, and so on. In these cases, it’s important to focus on restoring your scalp’s health and nourishing it as you should.
Love Beauty and Planet
Love Beauty and Planet Tea Tree Oil & Vetiver Radical Refresher Shampoo
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If you’re looking for an eco-friendly treatment for your scalp problems, then Love Beauty and Planet Radical Refresher Shampoo should be on top of your list. It’s infused with Australian tea tree oil that has natural antimicrobial properties, which can help in preventing overgrowth of bacteria and fungus on your scalp.
Another top recommendation that can aid in treating different types of scalp problems is TRESemmé Detox & Nourish Shampoo. This shampoo also doesn’t have any parabens or synthetic dyes that can harm your scalp. Instead, it has ginger and green tea, which provide a detoxifying and nourishing effect on your scalp as it replenishes lost nutrients as well.
Another option you can consider is doing dry scalp treatments at home. Examples of which are making homemade hair masks like the ones made of foods like eggs, yogurt, avocado, and natural oils like coconut oil, olive oil, argan oil, and so on.
Prevent Scalp Problems By Giving Your Scalp the TLC It Deserves
Now that your scalp has your attention, it’s time to really be mindful of how much care you’re giving it on a daily basis. Remember that having healthy hair also stems from having a healthy scalp. Protect, nourish, and treat your scalp right to say goodbye to scalp problems and say hello to a healthier hair and scalp!
