Scalp Rash: When to Relax, When to Worry

The most common characteristic of a healthy scalp is one that is free from the itching and dryness that are often associated with skin problems.  If you have scalp rashes, then your scalp definitely needs special attention and care.  Here are some of the things you need to know about common causes, symptoms and treatments of scalp rashes:

Dry scalp

Scalp rash can sometimes be caused by a mild case of dry scalp.  Scalp is still made of skin and as such, will shed on a regular basis.  The dead skin is usually eliminated from our bodies each time we brush or comb our hair and every time we shampoo.  If you have dry scalp rash that goes away after washing or brushing, you might have a dry scalp.

Dandruff

Most scalp rashes are caused by dandruff.  By itself, common dandruff is self-limiting and tends to go away on its own – frequent shampooing can sometimes do the trick.

However, there are also underlying causes that result to dandruff that you might have to consider.  Dandruff can be caused by a fungal infection, eczema or seborrheic dermatitis.  If it’s especially itchy, causes hair fall and flakes are spreading, it might be best to seek out your doctor’s advice.  Although over-the-counter dandruff shampoos are available, your particular condition might require prescription strength treatment.

Ringworm

In spite of its icky association, ringworm is a skin condition that is not actually caused by worms.  It’s a type of fungal infection that’s commonly found in children, although it can also appear occasionally in adults.  Ringworm resembles a red ring on the scalp and is very itchy.  It can be treated easily with an anti-fungal topical cream or ointment.

Irritant contact dermatitis

Dermatitis is an umbrella term used to refer to a wide variety of symptoms where skin becomes inflamed.  Your scalp rash may be caused by irritant contact dermatitis if, for any reason, you came into contact with a known allergen or a substance that you are allergic to.  Watch out for irritants in shampoos, hair conditioners, hair treatment gels and creams and hair perfume.  If you’re allergic to a particular fabric, avoid wearing it over your head.

Actinic keratoses

This type of scalp rash appears pink, light brown or even grayish bumps that can sometimes be scaly.  It’s often a result of excessive sun exposure and may also appear on other parts of the body.  If you have this, have your doctor examine the area.  Actinic keratoses can sometimes result in skin cancer.

Boils on the scalp

If you have tiny, round pimples on your scalp, particularly where pores or hair shafts are, you might be suffering from folliculitis or an inflammation of the hair follicles.  This often happens when the hair follicle is blocked and infected.

The good news is, folliculitis isn’t serious and will usually resolve on its own, which means you’re better off keeping your hands away to avoid spreading the infection further.  If necessary, you might have to use over-the-counter topical antibiotics to fight the bacteria.  However, if the boils are bigger than usual, extremely painful, pus-filled or bleeding or spreading out, best see your doctor immediately.

Hives

Hives or urticaria, are common among people who suffer from allergic reactions to certain chemicals, foods or medications.  Although hives rarely affect the scalp, you might be one of a tiny percentage of the population suffering from a rare breakout on your head.  If the scalp rash is indeed hives, you could alleviate the itching and inflammation by applying cold compresses or taking antihistamine medications.  If the itching or inflammation continues, seek medical help.

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