A healthy scalp is essential for strong, vibrant hair, yet many people experience scalp issues that can lead to discomfort, hair thinning, or irritation.
Understanding the most common scalp problems and how to treat them can help restore balance and improve overall hair health.
1. Dandruff and flaky scalp
Symptoms: White or yellow flakes on the scalp and hair, itchiness, and dryness.
Causes: Dandruff is often caused by an overgrowth of yeast, product buildup, or a dry scalp. It can also result from conditions like seborrheic dermatitis.
Treatment: Use an anti-dandruff shampoo containing zinc pyrithione, salicylic acid, or ketoconazole. Washing hair regularly and avoiding excessive oil buildup can also help.
2. Dry and itchy scalp
Symptoms: Tightness, itchiness, flaking (not always dandruff), and redness.
Causes: Cold weather, harsh shampoos, dehydration, or underlying conditions like eczema can contribute to dryness.
Treatment: Switch to a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo, use hydrating scalp treatments, and apply natural oils like coconut or jojoba oil to restore moisture.
3. Oily scalp
Symptoms: Greasy hair shortly after washing, clogged hair follicles, and possible acne along the hairline.
Causes: Overactive sebaceous glands, hormonal imbalances, or using heavy hair products.
Treatment: Wash hair with a clarifying shampoo containing tea tree oil or salicylic acid. Avoid heavy conditioners on the scalp, and try scalp scrubs to remove buildup.
4. Scalp acne
Symptoms: Small red or white bumps, tenderness, and inflammation on the scalp.
Causes: Clogged pores from oil, sweat, and hair products, or bacterial infections.
Treatment: Use a gentle exfoliating shampoo with salicylic acid, avoid greasy hair products, and keep hair and scalp clean.
5. Scalp psoriasis
Symptoms: Thick, scaly patches, redness, and flaking that may extend beyond the hairline.
Causes: An autoimmune condition that causes rapid skin cell turnover.
Treatment: Medicated shampoos with coal tar or salicylic acid, topical corticosteroids, and consulting a dermatologist for severe cases.
Conclusion
A well-maintained scalp promotes healthy hair growth. Identifying scalp issues early and using the right treatments can prevent discomfort and long-term damage. If symptoms persist, seek professional advice to ensure proper care.
