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Unhealthy Scalp: Symptoms, Causes, And Treatments

Writer's picture: Ooosh MalaysiaOoosh Malaysia

Updated: Apr 26, 2024


Doctor examining womans hair scalp, scalp eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, hair loss, dandruff or dry scalp problem
by triocean from Getty Images

  • Symptoms of an unhealthy scalp encompass itching, burning, scalp bumps, excessive oiliness, severe dandruff, and hair loss, often serving as indicators of underlying issues.

  • An itchy scalp may result from various causes such as allergic reactions to hair products, seborrheic dermatitis due to yeast overgrowth, and atopic dermatitis causing chronic itchiness and scaly skin, each requiring different treatments like avoiding allergens, using medicated shampoos, or seeking medical help for severe cases.

  • Dandruff, characterized by shedding dead skin leading to white flakes, can be managed using medicated shampoos, aloe vera for inflammation, and scalp repair treatments, while severe cases may evolve into seborrheic dermatitis marked by oily scales and scalp redness.

  • Scalp acne, caused by clogged hair follicles due to dead skin cells or excess sebum, has various triggers like infrequent hair washing, specific hair products, and organisms like fungus or bacteria, with treatments involving topical solutions containing salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, alongside hygiene practices and scalp repair treatments for deep cleansing and buildup removal.

  • Excessive scalp oil can cause itching and seborrheic dermatitis, aggravating dandruff, yet it's essential for scalp health; managing oiliness involves adjusting washing frequency, proper shampooing techniques, avoiding silicone-based products, and scalp repair treatments for natural oil balance.


An unhealthy scalp can lead to discomfort and hair issues that go beyond just dandruff. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and available treatments is crucial in maintaining a healthy head of hair. From itching and irritation to more severe conditions, exploring the signs and solutions for an unhealthy scalp can help you take better care of your hair and overall scalp health. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the various symptoms, root causes, and effective treatments to restore your scalp's well-being.



Research And Statistics


  • Over 75% of people in the world suffer from an itchy scalp. [1]

  • According to past research, dandruff affects approximately 50 percent of the general adult population worldwide and is more prevalent in males than females. [2],[3]

  • Acne usually shows up on your face, chest, and back. Almost 80% of people aged 11 to 30 deal with acne. But pimples on your scalp aren't so common. Unlike typical acne, scalp acne isn't restricted to a specific age group and tends to occur more in adults. [4]

  • 20% of people suffer from an excessively oily scalp. [5]


Asian Woman Angry Stressed and Pull Hair Isolated on White Background
by HENDY WILLIAM SINO from Sino Studio


Symptoms Of An Unhealthy Scalp


Our scalp often lets us know if something is amiss. Common symptoms of an unhealthy scalp include:

  • Itching

  • Burning

  • Bumps on the scalp (pimple, acne)

  • Extreme oiliness

  • Extreme dandruff

  • Hair loss


Itchy Scalp

Do you have an itchy scalp? There could be a few reasons behind it.


Closeup woman hand itchy scalp, Hair care concept
by Mikhail Azarov from Getty Images

Causes


Allergic reactions to hair products


If you have an itchy scalp and a rash, it might be allergic contact dermatitis. This is common in hair dye users, especially with chemicals like para-phenylenediamine (PPD) in black dyes. Allergies to shampoo or conditioner can also cause an itchy rash on your scalp and wherever the product touches your skin.


Treatment for allergic reactions to hair products

To ease allergic reactions, find and avoid the chemical causing the issue. Identifying it might need specialized tests from a dermatologist. Consider switching to natural, gentler products without harsh chemicals to calm your scalp. Your sensitive scalp might need time to heal and get back to being healthy.


Seborrheic dermatitis


Another common but more severe cause of an itchy scalp is seborrheic dermatitis, a skin condition that causes dandruff. It’s your body’s inflammatory response to an overgrowth of yeast, and leads to itching and flaking.


Treatment for seborrheic dermatitis

For mild cases, use over-the-counter shampoos with selenium or zinc pyrithione to control yeast. Severe cases might require prescription-strength antifungal shampoos, topical cortisone or medicated foam, solution, cream or ointment. You may also want to consider going for a scalp repair treatment at scalp and hair specialist centers.


Atopic dermatitis


Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema. It’s a chronic condition that causes itchy, dry, scaly skin and can affect any part of your body, including your scalp. Periods of itchiness and rash may come and go throughout your life, and could interfere with sleep, school, or work.


Treatment for atopic dermatitis

While atopic dermatitis can't be prevented, you can manage it to reduce itchiness. See a dermatologist for medications like antihistamines if your scalp continues to itch despite other treatments.


Scalp repair treatment at Ooosh! - using a scalp steamer
Scalp repair treatment at scalp and hair specialist centers help to manage itchy scalps.


Dandruff

Scalp Acne

Excessive Oil


Scalp Repair Treatment At Ooosh!™


Ooosh!™ Scalp Repair Treatment includes the incorporation of advanced tools like tricho-analyzers, thermal infrared mist, along with exclusively natural and botanical ingredients in all our patented Ooosh!™-developed products such as our hair masks, shampoo, and serum.


This treatment effectively resolves prolonged scalp problems:

  • Itchy scalp

  • Dandruff

  • Scalp acne

  • Excessive oil


Naturally resolve your scalp problems with Ooosh!™. There’s a solution to your frustration. 


6 sessions is all it takes.


Visit us at our center or contact us at +6011-69304599 to make your appointment.


Ooosh! hair and scalp specialist center


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