An itchy scalp is one of the symptoms associated with hair loss. This so even though the most severe causes of hair do not feature an itchy feeling on the scalp at all. Regardless, since most people tend to associate them, it’s time to set the records straight and see if itchy scalp actually causes hair loss at all.
Causes of an Itchy Scalp
The scalp is that layer of skin and tissue over your head. It’s where your hair is, so it is understandable to wonder about the association of it with hair loss. And since it is skin, it can also itch for a variety of reasons. Some of those very reasons are the following.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
Better known as dandruff, it is the appearance of many flakes that feel distinctly uncomfortable and itchy in the top of your head. It happens due to either excess off yeast in the scalp, hormonal imbalance, or the body’s reaction towards changes in temperature.
An over-the-counter anti-dandruff shampoo is enough for mild cases. More severe ones will need the attention of a dermatologist.
Folliculitis
It is nothing more than the infection of the hair follicles by either bacteria or fungus, and it can be a really serious condition. The hair follicles swell as a result and start to resemble acne.
Left untreated, the swelling causes the hair to fall and, eventually, damage the hair follicle permanently. It also, of course, itches quite a lot. Scratching the itch only accelerates the hair fall.
Allergic Reactions
Sensitive skin is prone to suffer from contact with certain shampoos and hair products that can cause an allergic reaction on the scalp.
Aside from intense itching, redness and some swelling are also the telltale signs of it. Stop the use of the product immediately, and the symptoms will subside after some time.
Lack of Hygiene
Constant accumulation of dirt, sweat, and filth on the scalp without even rinsing it with water or cleaning over a long period of time leads to its itching. Like dandruff, all the stuff on it is uncomfortable. But unlike dandruff, it can lead to a serious bacterial or fungal infection if left untreated. Regularly cleanse your scalp using shampoo two times a week, lest it will itch.
Skin Condition
A variety of skin diseases feature itchiness in the scalp: psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and scabies all do. The scratching that the itching from them compels only makes them worse. You will need a dermatologist to take care of them.
Does Itchy Scalp Cause Hair Loss? The Verdict
As mentioned, itchiness accompanies many of the conditions mentioned that affect the scalp. But an itching scalp does not cause hair loss. Rather, it is a symptom of conditions that are the ones ultimately causing hair loss.
In the case of suffering from an itchy scalp, refrain from scratching it and see if it’s either dandruff or lack of hygiene or another underlying condition. If you have reason to suspect something else, contact a dermatologist. Rather than taking an itchy scalp as a cause for hair loss, think about it as a sign of a condition that might cause hair loss.