![]() If you are using an OTC product for scalp itch and things don’t get better within a few weeks, you should see a dermatologist who may prescribe a topical anti-inflammatory steroid, said Downie.īeyond OTC products, it is helpful to know that a diet rich in protein and soy is important to promoting a healthy scalp and hair, said Young.įinally, your hair-washing routine can also impact an itchy scalp. This ingredient can be particularly helpful if you have scalp buildup causing you to itch, said Downie. Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that targets excessive oil production and removes dead skin cells.You will often find this ingredient in dandruff treatments. Sulfur has antibacterial benefits which can keep your scalp clean and fresh.It is derived from coal and is a thick, dark liquid that can be applied topically as a treatment. Coal tar is used to treat both psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis.Pyrithione zinc is another commonly used ingredient in dandruff products, but it can also help with psoriasis. ![]() Many dandruff products utilize this ingredient. Selenium sulfide can remove dry, scaly patches on the scalp and help ease the urge to itch.Ketoconazole is an anti-fungal medication often used to treat seborrheic dermatitis, says Downie.Downie said that these tend to be the most effective OTC ingredients to alleviate an itchy scalp: If you’ve decided to use an OTC treatment or product to try and help with scalp itch, there are a few different ingredients to look for. What active ingredients can help with an itchy scalp? “Much of it is the result of increased stress levels and a change in hair-care routines – for example, people are reducing the frequency of shampooing as they work from home,” said Jane Martin, a trichologist (which is someone who studies the hair and scalp). Post-pandemic, skin specialists started seeing more patients with itchy scalp conditions, particularly seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis. Contact dermatitis occurs when your scalp comes in direct contact with something you’re allergic to.Folliculitis is a condition that occurs when hair follicles get infected.The exact cause is unknown, but it is thought to be an immune system issue triggered by things like stress, infections and more. Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition.Seborrheic dermatitis is a common skin condition caused by the overgrowth of yeast, says Downie.But our experts pointed to four conditions that are most commonly associated with an itchy scalp. From there, you can try out an OTC treatment.Īn itchy scalp can be caused by a number of things. Jeanine Downie, a board-certified dermatologist. The first thing you should do? “Stop scratching, which can lead to an increase in itching and flaking,” said Dr. Whatever is causing the urge to scratch, chances are you’re dealing with skin that’s red and irritated. Other things that may cause irritation include psoriasis, folliculitis or contact dermatitis, which occurs when your scalp comes in direct contact with something you’re allergic to. Seborrheic dermatitis isn’t the only skin condition that can cause an itchy scalp. ![]() LEARN MORE Best Products for Itchy Scalps | What active ingredients can help with an itchy scalp? She shared I could have found earlier relief with some over-the-counter (OTC) medications and remedies. But the itch didn’t stop until months later when I went to see a dermatologist who prescribed an anti-inflammatory cream for what turned out to be seborrheic dermatitis, an extremely common skin irritation that can be caused by anything from an allergic reaction to a change in season. Thinking the annoying red patch that had formed in that area was dry skin, I started treating it with dabs of petroleum jelly. It started out as a simple itch on the lower back of my head and ended with a scratch that kept me up at night.
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