Scalp Eczema
Scalp eczema, atopic dermatitis. How to stop itching? Let’s learn all about this inflammatory condition.
How to recognize scalp eczema?
Scalp eczema is an inflammatory condition that occurs on the scalp. it is characterized by:
- Itches,
- Red patches,
- Crusts,
- The appearance of dandruff sometimes.
But is it atopic eczema, allergic contact eczema?
Not to be confused with seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis which also often affect the scalp.
–Symptoms of contact eczema in the hair
Do you have itchy red patches, scabs only on your head (sometimes dandruff) and you feel like you have had a reaction to a product? It is probably allergic or contact eczema of the scalp. Only a doctor can confirm this for you.
–Causes of allergic eczema in the hair
Allergic contact dermatitis is an inflammatory skin reaction that occurs when the skin comes into contact with a substance to which it is allergic. This allergic reaction is caused by a reaction of the skin’s immune system to a foreign substance.
In the case of allergic scalp eczema these allergenic substances are often present in hair dyes, bleaching products, shampoos or others that you have previously used.
–Treatments for contact eczema of the scalp
If you suspect allergic scalp eczema, the first thing to do is to make an appointment with a health professional (dermatologist, allergist). While waiting for the appointment, avoid any contact with the product that you suspect of having triggered the reaction. During the consultation, the doctor will be able to carry out a series of skin tests, using patches, to distinguish which substance is causing your allergies (or contact eczema) on your scalp. He will prescribe the appropriate treatment and ask you to no longer apply products containing this substance.
Symptoms of atopic dermatitis in hair
Do you or your child have itchy red patches, scabs on the scalp but also on other areas of the body? it is possible that it is atopic dermatitis of the scalp but this is uncommon because this type of eczema is not very common on the scalp and hair.
Causes of atopic dermatitis of the scalp
Atopic eczema of the scalp is a chronic inflammatory disease, most often hereditary, which mainly affects children but which can persist into adulthood. We advise you to consult a dermatologist so that he can establish a precise diagnosis.
How to treat atopic eczema of the scalp?
Apply the medical treatment for eczema prescribed by your dermatologist.
- Apply an emollient treatment at least once a day. The trick? Apply it to the scalp as a mask, leave on overnight… and rinse well in the morning with a mild shampoo.
- Choose a gentle shampoo suitable for dry scalp.
- Shower with lukewarm water, limiting the shower to 5 minutes.
- Drain the hair with a towel, without rubbing.
- And if you use a hair dryer, be careful that it is not too hot.
- Gently brush the hair with a soft-bristled brush, avoiding the comb.
Seborrheic dermatitis or scalp eczema?
Because seborrheic dermatitis causes white or yellow patches on the scalp (dandruff in adults and cradle cap in infants) and sometimes itching, it is often confused with scalp eczema. However, if the symptoms are similar, the causes are very different because the inflammation is not caused by an allergic reaction like contact eczema or a genetic factor like for atopic eczema. The cause of this dermatitis is still difficult to determine, but it appears to be partly due to a microscopic fungus which causes inflammation in areas of the body where sebum production is greatest (including the scalp).
For more hair care tips, click here.
I hope you enjoyed this little overview on scalp eczema and found it useful. Comment down below what you think of these tips, do you have eczema on your scalp? If yes, share with us your best tips to treat it and prevent flare ups!
Looking forward to reading your comments, sending you love and positive energy!!!
