An itchy scalp is a huge embarrassment for anyone. It is usually caused due to scalp scabs. These scabs can be sore bumps and very irritating. Aside from the embarrassment, they are also painful which elevates the condition. However, these are most common and they clear up without medical care. However, if you find crusty scabs on your scalp you should not scratch or pick on them as it might lead to scalp infections. Most of these scabs go away without any attention but few need medical care. For example, using over-the-counter scab treatment products will help in reducing them.
The following are the causes and treatment of scabs on the scalp:
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Contact Dermatitis
If you find itchiness and rashes on the scalp which are red in color, it is known as Contact Dermatitis. As the name says it is caused by allergens that get directly in contact with the scalp. Additionally, these rashes can be found on any part of the body. They are irritating which makes you scratch and once someone scratches they turn into scabs leading to open pores. Today there are unlimited products on the market and people use any product they like without understanding their skin condition. The ingredients in the products may not be suitable for everyone. Common causes are hair colors, fragrant soaps, shampoos, and different kinds of hair styling products.
Treatment
Some of the best home remedies to treat them are:
- Moisturizers: The primary reason for allergies is dry and cracked skin. Therefore using a good moisturizer helps to soothe the dry scalp condition. Dry skin causes many skin problems using soothing products without chemicals is a critical factor to combat scabs.
- Cold compress: The most common way to treat scabs is with a cold compress. It helps in relieving the itchiness. One can place a cold and damp cloth on the affected area or an ice pack which instantly relieves the pain.
- Antihistamines: These are pills for allergies that help in relieving inflammation and treating scabs.
- Corticosteroids: These are topical creams that can be applied to the affected area they help in soothing the rashes.
If these are not helpful doctors may prescribe antibiotics that treat the bacterial infection.
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Psoriasis
Although Psoriasis is commonly found on body parts like the elbow and knees it is a serious skin condition that affects the scalp also. It is an adverse inflammatory disorder known as autoimmune disease. The person suffering from psoriasis finds his own skin cells attacking the immune system. As the skin cells are reproduced at a fast pace it piles up in the skin like a thick patch on the scalp, one can confuse it with dandruff also as it is crusty.
Treatment
Treating Psoriasis depends on the condition, if it is mild the doctors may prescribe mild medicated hair products to curb the overgrowth of the skin. Usually, products with salicylic acid are used to treat it as it relieves skin inflammation and cell growth.
For severe cases, UVB light therapy, injections, and topical creams are used to suppress the skin cell growth and to help to reduce swelling.
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Seborrheic Dermatitis
This is one of the common skin conditions that occur due to excess oil on the scalp. The oily patch of the scalp is covered with crust and flakes which cause scabs. The sebum of the scalp builds up causing the overgrowth of Malassezia yeast.
Treatment
Mostly basic hygiene and home remedies cure the scabs. Otherwise, the doctors can prescribe topical applications and pills to reduce the irritation these medicines are antifungal.
To wrap up
There are several skin conditions that lead to scabs on the scalp. Although there are many home remedies available on the internet today it is preferable to see a doctor and get a proper diagnosis of the skin condition. The diagnosis will help in treating the scab fast. Timely consultation will treat the condition and stop further damage.