Having an itchy scalp is a common issue. An itchy scalp can be caused by various factors or could be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. Sometimes the itchiness is accompanied by flakiness, bumps, and even hair loss. Hair loss from an itchy scalp can occur when aggressive scratching of the scalp damages the hair follicles. Usually, your hair will regrow once the underlying cause is treated.
What Causes Dry Scalp and Hair Loss?
Most people experience a dry, itchy scalp from time to time. However, it can be concerning when you experience excessive or constant scalp itchiness, notice crusty areas on your scalp, or experience excessive hair loss.
A few common causes of an itchy scalp can lead to hair loss. When your scalp doesn't produce enough sebum to stay moisturized, your scalp may become dry and itchy. You may also notice dry skin on other areas of your body. While dry skin typically isn't a problem, it's time to find a solution when it leads to a constantly itching scalp. To determine the best treatment for your itchy scalp, it's vital to first determine the cause.
Moisture-Stripping Hair Products
Many of our hair products can lead to a dry, itchy scalp. This is especially true for shampoos that contain sulfates. Sulfates dissolve the natural oils on your scalp, causing your hair and scalp to be dryer than normal.
Sulfates can also worsen certain conditions, such as dandruff or eczema. Therefore, avoid shampoos that contain ammonium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, sodium chloride, and alcohols such as ethanol, propanol, isopropyl, or isopropanol.
It's also important to be aware that an allergic reaction to an ingredient in your hair care products can cause your scalp to become dry, red, and itchy. While it may seem impossible, please resist the urge to scratch, as it may worsen your condition and damage your hair follicles.
Washing Hair Too Frequently
A common cause of a dry, itchy scalp is washing your hair too frequently. Most people don't need to wash their hair every day. When you wash your hair, you remove not only dirt but also strip your hair follicles and scalp of moisture and natural oils. Washing your hair too often can result in a dry scalp and cause your hair to become weak and brittle.
Eczema
Eczema is a skin condition caused by inflammation and can leave your scalp red, inflamed, dry, and itchy. Eczema usually has a genetic component, so you may develop the condition if a family member has it.
In addition to genetics, environmental factors, such as stress, pollutants, and changes in the weather, can cause atopic dermatitis, a type of eczema. Whatever the cause of your eczema, it's vital to use mild shampoos and moisturizing creams to control the condition so that you don't end up aggravating your hair loss.
Changes In the Weather
Cold weather and low humidity can dry your scalp and hair. With winter upon us, your hair and scalp may benefit from using hair moisturizers and conditioners. You may also consider a scalp massage before shampooing and buying a humidifier to keep your hair moisturized.
Does Itchy Scalp Lead to Hair Loss?
Yes, an itchy scalp can lead to hair loss. One main reason why this happens is that the itchiness can make you scratch your head intensely and aggressively. And since scratching an itch can be pretty satisfying, stopping can be challenging.
Unfortunately, scratching can weaken and damage your hair follicles. And if you don't find a solution, it can cause permanent damage, resulting in permanent hair loss.
At New Look, our team of hair experts can help you determine the cause of your itchy scalp and help you find a solution that relieves your discomfort and saves your hair. To learn more about how an itchy scalp can lead to hair loss and what you can do to prevent it, contact us today and schedule your FREE initial consultation.
