Nobody likes having an itchy scalp, where you play the fool by sitting and scratching your head. But add increased hair fall to that, and you’re looking at a nightmare unfolding in real life. The causes of both can vary, but people often experience them hand in hand.
What are the causes of itchy scalp and hair fall?
Before we understand the link between the two, we need to understand the reasons for your trouble.
Itchy scalp
An itchy scalp can have multiple causes. Many of these are also associated with redness and inflammation on the scalp.
- Allergic reactions
- Dandruff
- Lice
- Dry scalp
- Ailments like Scalp Psoriasis, Seborrheic Dermatitis or Eczema
- Inflammation and Folliculitis
Hair fall
It is normal to shed hair, that’s just how the body works. It’s getting rid of the older and weaker strands to possibly make way for stronger hair. Normal hair fall is about 50 to 100 strands per day. But some situations can increase hair fall.
- Tight hairstyles
- Harsh chemical products
- Hair dye
- Hormonal fluctuations
- Extreme weather changes
- Stress
- Heat treatment
These can vary for each individual and it could also be a combination of factors that are causing your hair thinning itchy scalp.
Is there any link between hair loss and scalp itch?
Simple answer – Yes, there is a link.
When you scratch, you are basically damaging your hair follicles. Imagine that you’re raking your nails and fingers against a vulnerable and weakened scalp ecosystem, which no longer has a strong hold on your hair strands. It is only natural that your hair fall will increase, as your hands dislodge the strands from their roots.
If your scalp is affected by any issue, such as dandruff, allergic reactions, or even inflammation, it puts your hair strands in a weaker position. In case this is associated with scaling or red bumps, it can further disrupt the hair strand’s hold on the scalp. Scratching just makes it easier for the hair to fall down.
Scratching can also transfer oils and germs from your hands onto your scalp, which can further exacerbate your existing problems. In extreme scratching, you can also cause scarring and bleeding. This scar tissue will temporarily prevent any new hair from growing on those portions.
What should you do for itchy scalp hair loss?
Luckily, most hair fall due to an itchy scalp is temporary. So there are a bunch of things you can do to help mitigate this problem.
- Don’t scratch – Just don’t. If you know that your scratching is causing hair fall, why continue doing so?
- Solve the problem behind your itch – Understand the cause of your problems and find a solution for it. If dandruff is the reason for your itchy scalp, use an anti-dandruff product like the Head and Shoulders Lemon Fresh.
- Tight hairstyle – Don’t wear your hair in tight hairstyles that can put a strain on your hair. Also, protect your hair and scalp when out in the sun.
- Type of product – Ensure that your products don’t contain allergens that are worsening your itch.
- Hair masks and oils – Use hair masks and oils that can soothe the scalp, while getting rid of the reasons for your itch. Aloe Vera, Argan oil, Lemon Juice, and various others can be used to create home remedies.
- Hair dye and heat treatment – When your scalp is feeling itchy, you’re better off not using these kinds of treatment. This can worsen the situation.
If you’re still worried about your scalp itch, you should visit a dermatologist and get a detailed diagnosis.