Hair Loss Problem

Scalp irritation is a common problem all over the world. Many people suffer from this affliction. Both the causes and cures to itchy scalps are many. This article touches on a few.

One simple cause of an itchy scalp is infrequent washing. This can lead to a build-up of dead skin cells that, by themselves, can cause irritation. The obvious solution is frequent washing, at least once or twice a week, with a good quality shampoo.

Secondly, washing too often can dry the scalp and promote itchiness. This might also be caused by overly hot water, hair dryers and poor quality shampoo. During winter, cold wind can exacerbate the problem, as can overly dry air from home heating without adequate humidification. Using shampoo for dry hair and scalp can assist.

As previously mentioned, build-up of dead skin can stimulate fungus as well as bacteria, parasites and viruses. Pityrosporum ovale or Malassezia furfur is a yeast fungus normally present on a human body. It causes dandruff and itch if it becomes overly prolific on a body. Regular exposure to direct sunlight can be helpful; sun baking is not necessary. Tea tree oil has natural anti-fungal properties and often used to control Pityrosporum ovale. Shampoo with zinc pyrithione or ketoconazole can also be beneficial, particularly if allowed to rest on the skin for a prolonged period of five minutes or more. It is also important to apply this remedy persistently for several weeks to ensure the fungus does not reaccelerate its colonization in the interim.

Fourthly, scalp itchiness and dandruff also result from overactive oil glands in the skin. This condition, called seborrheic dermatitis, can also affect the eyelids, eyebrows, ears, nose, and groin. The stimulus for hyperactive oil glands is not known. Dietary modifications may assist control of seborrheic dermatitis. Avoiding saturated fatty acids and trans-fatty oils can decrease secretions from oil glands. Increased vitamin B, essential fatty acids and zinc cal also help. Finally, shampoo with salicylic acid or coal tar is beneficial.

Fifthly, scalp psoriasis is accompanied by annoying itching. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease involving an overactive response by the immune system in reaction against substances normally present on or in the body. This complaint causes tiny scales or flakes like dandruff. In the worst of cases, thick yellow dead skin separates from the scalp as large patches. Treatment includes shampoo or creams with salicylic acid or coal tar.

Stress can also cause of itchy scalp, as well as skin irritations elsewhere on the body particularly on the neck and face. Stress-related dysfunctions are often difficult to diagnose and remedy. Advice from health professionals is almost always required.

The six causes and cures to itchy scalps mentioned above are all common in the community. In addition to the remedies already discussed, diet factors can assist. To begin, adequate amounts of vitamin B, A and E are important. Next, regular intake of both Omega-3 and Omega-6 unsaturated fatty acids is also important. Simple sugars like fructose and glucose should be limited since they neutralize vitamin B6. Finally, decreasing saturated fat acids is a good idea when controlling oil gland secretions is important.

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