Is your scalp covered with tiny bumps? Do they itch and ache? Do they get flaky? A rash on the scalp is never pleasant and sometimes it can be downright dangerous. You should never ignore this kind of problem because it might progress into a serious inflammation or infection, which will cause hair loss. There are many possible causes of such rashes, so you’ll need to watch the condition very carefully. If the basic treatment methods do not work, you should visit a doctor immediately to determine the exact reason and get a prescription for a proper treatment.
Common Causes of a Rash on Scalp
-Dandruff (usually caused by a fungus)
-Allergies
-Dermatitis
-Hives
-Psoriasis
-Seborrhea
-Folliculitis
-Acne
How to Treat Common Scalp Problems
In a perfect case scenario, the first thing to do when you discover a rash on your scalp is to visit a dermatologist who can diagnose the exact cause. However, few people actually take this route due to all the difficulties and costs involved. Also, in the majority of cases the problem can be easily resolved with a change of your hair care routine and some homemade remedies. It’s only when the situation doesn’t show any improvement in response to those that you should get worried and seek medical attention. You also should visit a dermatologist if the rash you develop looks like something like this and exhibits extreme symptoms, like developing pustules filled with pus or intense itching. If nothing so dangerous seems to be happening, you should start dealing with a scalp rash in a few simple steps:
Switch to a gentle cleansing shampoo
These products are specially formulated for sensitive skin, so they will help you clean your scalp without exacerbating the problem. Note that unless your condition requires a specialized medicated shampoo, these solutions will be the best option for any scalp issue. To see some of the specialized purifying scalp care products, click here.
These can replace a conditioner and will help solve many a problem that might cause the rash on your scalp.
Avoid any source of potential irritation
This means that you should stop using styling products, at least for a few days. In fact, try to touch your hair and scalp as little as possible. This also means you should avoid hairstyles that pull on your hair, like tight ponytails. If your condition doesn’t improve after a week of such treatment, seek medical help.
Best Homemade Hair Mask Recipes for Itchy and Scaly Scalp
If you are determined to try natural treatments first, you should choose recipes that contain antibacterial and anti-inflammatory ingredients:
Coconut oil + honey hair mask
Mix together two parts each melted coconut oil and honey and add one part apple cider vinegar. Mix thoroughly and re-melt in a microwave as needed. Apply the mask to your scalp for 15-20 minutes before washing off with warm water (never hot!) Note that if used often, this mask might lighten your hair colour a bit. Both coconut oil and honey have potent anti-inflammatory properties and might help you deal with infections and conditions like scalp acne and folliculitis.
Flaxseed oil + apple cider vinegar treatment.
Combine two tablespoons of flaxseed oil with a teaspoon of sugar. Massage the mixture into your scalp and leave for 20 minutes. Meanwhile, mix a cup of water with two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and hydrogen peroxide each. Pour the mixture to a clean spray bottle. Wash off the oil with lukewarm water and a little bit of shampoo. Then, carefully spray your scalp with the mix from the bottle. Separate your hair into sections to apply the treatment properly. This solution will be a great help in case of yeast infections that cause dandruff and scaly scalp.
Turmeric + honey
To fight various bacterial infections and inflammation, mix small parts of honey and turmeric powder and massage it into your scalp carefully. Wash off with lukewarm water in about 20 minutes.
Oatmeal + milk
Combine ½ cup of oat flakes with ½ cup of milk and a tablespoon of olive oil. Apply on scalp and hair, carefully spreading the mix from roots to the tips. Cover your hair with a shower cap and leave for 15-20 minutes. Then, shampoo your locks as usual. This natural remedy is great for dry hair due to its moisturizing effect. It also can help reduce the itchiness and flaking of the scalp.
