Eczema in hair treatment: Scalp Eczema | About and Treatments
Scalp Eczema | About and Treatments
Scalp eczema
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Introduction
Types of eczema that affect the scalp
Treatment
Washing hair
Introduction
The scalp can be affected by several different types of eczema. Scalp eczema may be dry, itchy,
scaly and inflamed (showing as red on lighter skin tones and areas that are lighter or darker in
colour than the surrounding skin on darker skin tones). In an eczema flare phase, it may also be
weepy and painful.
Apart from eczema, there are a number of conditions that can cause the scalp to become dry and itchy (for example, psoriasis, fungal infection, ringworm and head lice). It is important to get a firm diagnosis if there is any uncertainty.
Types of eczema that affect the scalp
Seborrhoeic dermatitis is one of the most common types of eczema seen on the scalp and hairline. It can affect babies in the form of cradle cap, as well as children and adults.
In people with lighter skin tones, the skin appears scaly and red. In people of colour, affected areas may be scaly and lighter in colour than the surrounding skin and may have no redness. There is often dandruff as well, which can vary in severity. There may also be a rash on other parts of the face, such as around the eyebrows, eyelids and sides of the nose. Seborrhoeic dermatitis can become infected. See National Eczema Society’s factsheets on Seborrhoeic dermatitis in adults and Seborrhoeic dermatitis and cradle cap in infants for more information.
Atopic eczema is another common type of eczema that can affect the scalp at any age. The skin is dry, itchy and inflamed, and can easily become infected, especially if scratched and when there is broken skin.
Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when the immune system in the skin overreacts to a chemical that has, until this point, not caused any reaction. For an allergy to develop, repeated exposure to the chemical is required over a period of time, usually months or years.
Everyday items that can cause allergic contact dermatitis on the scalp include the following:
- Shampoos, conditioners, gels, sprays and other hair products
- Hair dyes, perm solutions, hair extension glue
- Swimming caps, hair nets – especially those containing rubber
- Hair clips and headgear – especially those containing rubber or nickel.
Irritant contact dermatitis is a type of eczema that occurs when the skin’s surface is irritated by a substance that causes the skin to become dry, itchy and inflamed (not an allergic reaction). For example, shampoos, mousses, hair gels, hair spray, perm solution and fragrance can all cause irritant contact dermatitis. See National Eczema Society’s booklet, All about Contact Dermatitis, for more information on allergic and irritant contact dermatitis.
Treatment
Treatment of scalp eczema will depend on the type diagnosed by your doctor. Below are possible treatments that may be prescribed.
Moisturising the scalp
The skin on the scalp requires moisturising just like the body, but it can be difficult to get beyond the hair to the scalp. Medical emollients can be applied to the scalp by parting the hair and massaging them into the skin. Ointment-based emollients are not suitable as they are grease-based and difficult to wash out. Emollients in lotion, gel and spray-on oil forms; for example, E45 lotion, Doublebase gel or the spray-on oil, Emollin, may be suitable. Coconut oil is another option, which, like emollient creams, can be bought in pharmacies. It comes as a solid form that melts at skin temperature. Olive oil is no longer recommended as it has been found to damage the skin barrier.
People often prefer to moisturise the scalp in the evening, using a cotton turban or shower cap to keep the emollient in overnight, and then rinse the product out in the morning (see the section below on washing hair).
If the scalp is very scaly, a salicylic acid and tar preparation (for example, Cocois or Sebco) can be applied in the same way and left in place for at least 4 hours, but an overnight application is more effective.
These scalp treatments are messy, so make sure you use a couple of old pillowcases to absorb the excess! In the morning, simply shampoo out the treatment.
Treating flares
When scalp eczema flares up, the treatment is similar to treatment for other body areas. Try to treat the scalp and not the hair – part the hair and massage treatments onto the scalp.
Topical steroids designed for use on the scalp can be prescribed. Lotion, mousse or gel preparations may be the most comfortable options for the scalp – for example, Elocon lotion, Bettamousse or Synalar gel. For young children, a mild topical steroid cream, such as 1% hydrocortisone, may be prescribed for a short treatment burst. For older children, a moderate topical steroid, such as Eumovate, may be prescribed. It is important to use topical steroids for a prescribed treatment course – usually up to 2 weeks. For more information, see National Eczema Society’s factsheet on Topical steroids.
If scalp eczema extends onto the hairline and face, different strengths of topical steroid will be required, as less potent topical steroids are advised for the face.
If the scalp is inflamed and scaly, topical steroids combined with salicylic acid can be helpful (for example, Diprosalic Scalp Application). If scalp eczema is infected, oral antibiotics may need to be prescribed.
Please note: we are not recommending particular prescription-only topical steroids, but giving examples.
Washing hair
If you have scalp eczema, normal shampoos containing detergents and fragrance are likely to irritate your scalp. It is important that you either find a less irritant shampoo (for example, E45 Dry Scalp Shampoo or Eucerin DermoCapillaire Calming Urea Shampoo) or simply use an emollient to wash your hair. Lotion emollients are advised as they mix well with water, but they may leave the hair slightly greasy and limp, especially if it is fine. Conditioners can also irritate the scalp, so are best avoided. Try to avoid shampoos and hair products that are fragranced, as these may cause irritation and possibly allergy. Use hair dryers on a cool setting; hot air will increase dryness and itch.
There are several medicated shampoos available for treating scalp problems, which may help in managing scalp eczema. However, these need to be selected carefully, and washed off thoroughly to avoid irritation. The following are examples: Dermax Therapeutic Shampoo contains a mild antiseptic, benzalkonium chloride, and helps to reduce scale. Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo is a gentle tar shampoo. Capasal contains salicylic acid, coconut oil and tar, which may help a very scaly scalp.
Seborrhoeic dermatitis should be managed with shampoos especially designed to reduce the yeast element and characteristic flaking (for example, Ketoconazole shampoo and shampoos containing selenium sulphide or zinc pyrithione). Anti-yeast shampoos should be used once a week as an ongoing preventative measure for adult seborrhoeic dermatitis. It is neither necessary nor advisable to use anti-yeast shampoos for other types of eczema.
To obtain the information on this page in a PDF format, please download our Scalp eczema factsheet, below.
For more information on haircare and eczema, please download the article from our magazine, Exchange, ‘Haircare and eczema’ (June 2018), below.
What Is Scalp Eczema? Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and More
Scalp Eczema (Seborrheic Dermatitis) Symptoms
The symptom of scalp eczema is skin patches that occur on your head. They may be:
- Red and scaly
- Flaky
- Greasy or waxy
- Very itchy or feel like it’s burning
- Oozing or have “weeping” lesions
- Causing a discharge from the ear if eczema continues from the scalp into the ear canal
- Causing changes in skin color after healing (2,3)
Other skin conditions — such as psoriasis, allergic contact dermatitis (inflammation caused by an allergic reaction to a certain substance), atopic dermatitis (which often occurs in those with asthma or seasonal allergies), and folliculitis — may cause symptoms similar to those of scalp eczema.
(4) People commonly confuse psoriasis and scalp eczema — but know that psoriasis usually has a whiter scale compared with scalp eczema, and psoriasis leads to sensitive skin patches that easily bleed when scratched. In some cases, scalp eczema and psoriasis can happen together. (5)
What Causes Scalp Eczema?
Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory condition caused by the overproduction of sebum, the natural oils secreted by sebaceous glands in the scalp. It is not contagious.
Because seborrheic dermatitis is a condition related to the sebaceous glands, it can also appear in other oily areas of the skin, including the face (eyebrows, eyelids, and center of the face), ears, upper chest, upper back, armpits, and genitals. (3)
There is a strong association between seborrheic dermatitis and yeast of the genus Malassezia, which are normally present in the skin but often overgrown in people with the skin condition.
Scientists don’t fully understand the exact connection between the yeast and eczema symptoms, but research suggests that a nonspecific immune reaction may be to blame.
That is, some interaction between Malassezia, their metabolites (substances produced during metabolism), and skin and immune cells results in an inflammatory reaction. (4,6)
Importantly, once someone becomes sensitized to Malassezia, the yeast will always cause an immune reaction. (7)
The Top Medications for Treating Eczema on Your Scalp
There is no cure for scalp eczema or seborrheic dermatitis, but medications can help reduce and prevent symptoms.
For example, you can usually treat irritation and an itchy scalp with a medicated, over-the-counter dandruff shampoo.
The chemical ingredients in these shampoos can help ease the inflammation and get rid of flaky, scaly skin when used two or three times a week. Look for these items:
- salicylic acid
- coal tar
- zinc
- resorcinol (Resinol)
- ketoconazole (Nizoral)
- selenium sulfide
Topical creams, ointments, or sprays made from these ingredients can also be applied to help calm the irritation and stop the flaking.
If you have severe scalp eczema, your doctor may prescribe products containing stronger doses of the aforementioned medicines or medicines containing other ingredients, such as corticosteroids, ciclopirox, sulfacetamide sodium, tacrolimus topical (Protopic), or pimecrolimus topical (Elidel). (2,9)
How to Help Prevent Scalp Eczema Flare-Ups
The severity of seborrheic dermatitis may be lessened by controlling risk factors and triggers, and taking care of the skin.
To manage scalp eczema and help prevent flare-ups, do your best to follow these recommendations:
- Avoid exposure to any suspected irritants and allergens.
- Clean your scalp thoroughly, but avoid drying it out by using only a quarter-sized dollop of a gentle shampoo and warm, never hot, water.
- Manage stress well.
- Shampoo your hair after sweating heavily, such as after a workout, since perspiration can be a trigger.
More on Understanding Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
Why Eczema Isn’t a Contagious Skin Disease
Scalp eczema often responds to treatment, but it also often returns.
For some people, exposure to the sun may improve symptoms.
Be on the lookout for signs of a flare-up and start treatment right away. (2,8,9)
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A dermatological disease, expressed by characteristic rashes in the scalp, as well as on the face, neck, behind the ears, is called “seborrheic eczema of the head.” Adults and children, men and women are equally affected.
Seborrheic eczema: symptoms
The first alarming sign is the appearance of many small nodules on the skin. Further, the disease develops sequentially.
- Nodules enlarge, gradually merging.
- Formed flat plaques are covered with large scales (up to 2 cm).
- Oily flakes dry up and form crusts.
- Slight wetting is found under the crusts.
The affected areas have pronounced uneven contours. When the rash is localized in the hairy zone, it gradually spreads to the forehead, neck, behind the ears.
The patient is concerned about itching, usually mild.
Seborrheic eczema: causes
Statistics show that up to 80% of cases of the disease have an infectious etiology. The main causative agents are staphylococci, as well as fungi of the species Candida, Pityrosporum Ovale.
Predisposition to seborrheic eczema appears in people with certain chronic pathologies, as well as in those who have had serious illnesses.
- Gastritis, ulcer.
- Diseases of the liver.
- Diabetes mellitus, other hormonal disorders.
- Overweight.
- Frequent colds, SARS, complicated by inflammation of the upper respiratory tract.
- Seborrheic dermatitis, other skin diseases.
The risk group, of course, includes people with poor immunity, a tendency to allergies, and abnormal activity of the sebaceous glands.
Seborrheic eczema: treatment
The disease is determined on the basis of a visual examination, dermato- and trichoscopy, analysis of scrapings for fungi.
If necessary, computer diagnostics are carried out.
The patient is referred for consultations to specialists to identify pathologies that predispose to eczema.
When seborrheic eczema of the head is diagnosed, treatment should be started as soon as possible, without waiting for the probable hair loss.
The therapy is complex, systemic.
- Elimination of background pathologies.
- Oral Riboflavin, B vitamins.
- External treatment with antimicrobial ointments (salicylic, sernoresorcinol).
- Physiotherapy (cryo- and laser procedures, darsonval).
- Mesotherapy of the skin of the hairy zone with anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Plasmolifting.
- A diet that limits the intake of fats, sugar, alcohol.
- Individual selection of medical cosmetics for the scalp and hair.
With timely started, adequate treatment, the disease disappears without negative consequences for the skin and hair.
Effective treatments for eczema on the head
Find out which remedies and methods help treat eczema on the head. Read on for tips and tricks to manage itchy, inflamed, and flaky scalp.
Eczema on the head, also known as seborrheic dermatitis, is a common skin condition that causes redness, flaking and itching on the scalp. This condition can be not only physically unpleasant, but also emotionally stressful, as it is accompanied by feelings of insecurity and awkwardness. However, there are effective treatments for scalp eczema that can help relieve symptoms and improve skin condition.
One of the main treatments for scalp eczema is the use of special shampoos and lotions designed to combat seborrheic dermatitis. These products contain active ingredients such as salicylic acid and zinc pyrithione, which help reduce inflammation, reduce flaking and eliminate itching. Regular use of such products can significantly improve the condition of the scalp and reduce the frequency of exacerbations.
In addition, it is important to maintain good scalp hygiene and avoid excessive use of hot water and aggressive shampoos. Combing hair can also affect the condition of the scalp, so it is recommended to use a soft brush or a wide-toothed comb. It is also helpful to avoid stressful situations and manage your stress levels, as stress can increase the symptoms of scalp eczema.
It is important to remember that every body is different and what works for one person may not work for another. Therefore, if the symptoms of eczema on the head do not improve or worsen, it is necessary to consult a doctor for professional help and personalized treatment.
In general, good scalp hygiene, the use of special products and stress management will help relieve the symptoms of eczema on the head and improve skin condition. It is important to be patient and consistent in treating this condition in order to achieve the best results.
Scalp care
Scalp care is an important part of overall hair care.
A healthy scalp contributes to the growth of strong and beautiful hair. To keep your scalp in good condition, you must follow a few basic rules.
First, regular hair washing helps to cleanse the scalp of excess sebum, dirt and other impurities. When choosing a shampoo, you should give preference to those that are suitable for your type of hair and scalp. Shampoos that are designed specifically for problematic scalps such as eczema require special attention. They contain ingredients that soothe irritated skin and help reduce inflammation.
Secondly, regular scalp massage improves blood circulation and stimulates hair growth. Massage can be done with fingers or special massage brushes. It helps to improve the supply of nutrients to the hair roots and enhances the effect of the use of care products.
You also need to pay attention to nutrition. A healthy and balanced diet helps to strengthen the hair and improve the condition of the scalp.
The diet should include foods rich in vitamins and minerals, such as fruits, vegetables, fish, eggs, and nuts.
It is important to remember that eczema on the head requires a comprehensive approach to treatment, which includes not only scalp care, but also the use of special medications. Therefore, before starting treatment, it is necessary to consult a dermatologist.
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Avoid stress and mental strain
Stress and mental strain can have a negative effect on the skin and exacerbate eczema on the head. Therefore, it is important to be able to manage your emotional state and avoid situations that can cause stress.
Various relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing and yoga can be used to reduce stress and mental tension. It is also useful to engage in physical activity, which helps to relieve accumulated stress and improve mood.
Do not forget about positive emotions. Do things regularly that bring you pleasure and joy. Communicate with loved ones, spend time with friends, do hobbies. All this will help reduce stress levels and improve the general condition of the body, including the condition of the skin.
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Q&A:
What causes scalp eczema?
Eczema on the head can be caused by a variety of causes, including genetic predisposition, allergic reactions to food or environmental stimuli, stress, climate change, or seasonal allergens.
What symptoms accompany eczema on the head?
Symptoms of eczema on the head may include itching, redness, dryness, peeling, crusting, blisters or blistering, and cracking of the skin.
How is eczema on the head diagnosed?
Diagnosis of eczema on the head is usually made by looking at the skin and asking the patient about their symptoms and medical history.
In some cases, skin samples may need to be taken for laboratory analysis.
What are the effective treatments for eczema on the head?
There are several effective treatments for scalp eczema, including the use of topical anti-inflammatory creams or ointments, the use of shampoos or masks with anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory ingredients, the use of anti-allergic drugs, and a special diet and avoidance of potential irritants.
How can eczema on the head get worse?
Avoid contact with known allergens, keep skin clean and dry, use mild shampoos and hair products, avoid stressful situations, and maintain a healthy lifestyle and proper diet to prevent flare-ups of scalp eczema.
When should I seek medical attention for eczema on the head?
Seek medical attention for eczema on the head if symptoms become severe, do not improve after using home remedies, cause severe itching or pain, or if eczema begins to spread to other parts of the body or causes severe discomfort and disruption of the usual way of life life.
Proper nutrition and diet
When treating eczema on the head, it is very important to pay attention to proper nutrition and establish a diet. Nutrition should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients to maintain healthy skin and strengthen the immune system.
In addition, avoid foods that can aggravate the symptoms of eczema on the head. It can be spicy and fatty foods, alcohol, caffeine, citrus fruits and chocolate. They can cause allergic reactions and increase skin inflammation.
It is also important to establish a diet and stick to it. Eating regularly will help keep your blood sugar levels stable and prevent eczema symptoms from getting worse. It is recommended to eat small meals several times a day and avoid overeating.
Use mild and natural hair care products
For eczema on the head, special attention should be paid to hair care to avoid irritation and exacerbation of symptoms. Using gentle and natural products will help reduce inflammation and hydrate the scalp.
One of the basic rules for eczema hair care is choosing a shampoo and conditioner that is free of harsh chemicals and artificial colors. The best option would be a natural product containing organic ingredients such as aloe vera, herbal extracts and oils that moisturize and soothe the scalp.
It is also recommended to limit the use of hot water when washing your hair as it can dehydrate the skin and increase dryness and itching. It is better to use warm or cool water, and limit the frequency of hair washing to 2-3 times a week so as not to remove the natural oils needed to protect the scalp.
In addition, natural hair masks can be used to help moisturize and nourish the scalp. For example, a mask based on olive oil, honey and egg yolk will be useful for strengthening hair and relieving itching. You can also use tea tree oil, which has anti-inflammatory properties and helps reduce skin irritation.
Avoid contact with harsh chemicals
For scalp eczema, it is very important to avoid contact with harsh chemicals as they can aggravate symptoms and cause skin irritation.
This includes using harsh shampoos, conditioners, and other hair care products that contain sulfates, parabens, and other harmful chemicals.
Instead, it is recommended to choose gentle, hypoallergenic products specially formulated for sensitive skin. These products are usually free of harsh chemicals and can help soften and moisturize your scalp, reducing irritation and itching.
Hair dyes and other chemical treatments, which can damage the scalp and aggravate eczema, should also be avoided. If you want to change your hair color, it’s best to go to professionals who can use skin-friendly products and coloring methods.
Use of topical medicines
One of the effective treatments for eczema on the head is the use of topical medicines. These products are applied directly to the affected areas of the skin, which allows you to achieve a quick and maximum effect.
Various ointments, gels and creams containing active ingredients that soften and heal the skin are used as local medicines.
One of the most common remedies is a hormonal cream containing glucocorticosteroids. This cream reduces inflammation, itching and redness of the skin, providing fast relief from the symptoms of eczema.
Antibiotic preparations can also be used to treat eczema on the head. They help prevent or eliminate infection that can occur on damaged skin. Usually these preparations are special shampoos or solutions for washing the scalp.
Special creams and lotions can be used to moisturize and soften the scalp. They have moisturizing and softening properties, allowing you to improve the condition of the skin and reduce dryness and flaking.
It is important to remember that before using local medicines, it is necessary to consult a doctor in order to choose the most appropriate remedy and determine the dosage. You should also follow the instructions for use and do not exceed the recommended duration of treatment.
Physiotherapy and scalp treatments
Eczema on the scalp can be uncomfortable and uncomfortable, but physical therapy and special treatments can improve the condition of the scalp and reduce symptoms.
One of the effective methods is phototherapy. During this procedure, the patient’s scalp is exposed to special light of a certain wavelength. It helps to reduce inflammation, itching and redness of the skin.
Another physiotherapy method that can be useful for eczema on the head is electrophoresis. During this procedure, drugs are injected into the scalp using a weak electric current. This allows you to deliver medicinal substances directly to the affected areas of the skin, which contributes to their rapid and effective action.
Also, various procedures can be used to improve the condition of the scalp, such as ultrasound therapy and darsonvalization. Ultrasound therapy helps to improve blood circulation in the scalp, which promotes accelerated healing and cell renewal. Darsonvalization, in turn, is based on exposure to the scalp with a low-frequency electric current. This helps reduce inflammation and itching, as well as improve overall skin tone.
In addition to physiotherapy, special treatments such as masks, compresses and wraps can be used to improve the condition of the scalp.
Masks based on natural ingredients such as oatmeal, aloe vera or honey help to moisturize and soften the scalp and reduce inflammation. Compresses and wraps using seaweed or mineral salts can also help improve the condition of the scalp and reduce the symptoms of eczema.
Consultation with a dermatologist
If you have eczema on your head, it is important to consult a dermatologist. Only a specialist will be able to determine the cause and degree of development of the disease, as well as prescribe an effective treatment.
During the consultation, a dermatologist will examine the affected area of the head, assess the condition of the skin and identify the features of the symptoms. This will determine the form of eczema and choose the most appropriate method of treatment.
The doctor may recommend the use of topical preparations in the form of creams, ointments or shampoos containing active ingredients to soften and moisturize the skin. Anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic drugs may also be prescribed to eliminate inflammation and itching.