10 Reasons Your Scalp Might Be Itchy — And What to Do About It

Notice scalp itchiness after getting your hair colored? You might be having an allergic reaction to the dye. Fortunately, the issue usually goes away on its own. Just try and avoid the same chemical next time you go the salon, and if you're not sure what it is, head to the derm — they should be able to figure it out. (That said, if you develop symptoms besides itchiness, like swelling or hives, call your doctor stat.)

The scalp can get burned just like the rest of your body if you don't take the necessary precautions. That means wearing a hat or applying sunscreen to any exposed parts of your scalp (like where your hair is parted). Like most sunburns, the itchiness will eventually fade, but if it's driving you crazy apply some over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to get some relief.

Everyone has experienced dandruff at some point during their life, and oh is it itchy. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the problem is due to an overgrowth of yeast and can be controlled by using over-the-counter shampoos containing selenium or zinc pyrithione. If shampoos don't fix it, stronger prescription formulas are available from your doc.

Eczema — inflammation that makes the skin red and itchy — can occur on the scalp too. (A type of eczema called sebhorreic eczema tends to pop up here.) According to the Mayo Clinic, it should go away without treatment, but some people need extra assistance to shake the problem. Try cleansing your hair daily with a gentle soap and shampoo, and if that doesn't work, see a doctor.

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Psoriasis — which causes itchy reddish, scaly patches on the scalp or on the rest of the body — is a chronic autoimmune disease. The best way to go about addressing psoriasis of the scalp is to try over-the-counter medicated shampoos that contain coal tar or salicylic acid, although you can get something stronger from your doctor if that doesn't help.

Head lice isn't something you just get in elementary school. Unfortunately, you can get them as an adult too — and since lice prefer clear hair, it's more common than you'd think. If you notice lice or eggs in your hair, treat them with an over-the-counter shampoo and immediately wash clothing, towels, and linens that may have come into contact with them.

Let's be real: It isn't always possible to wash your hair after a sweaty workout, and skipping a shampoo every now and then isn't going to hurt anything. But if your scalp feels itchy, that's a good sign it's time to lather up. (With actual soap and water — dry shampoo doesn't count!)

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Scabies — which are caused by tiny mites — can cause itchiness wherever they burrow, scalp included. The condition is contagious and can spread, so treat it immediately. (Because it's so contagious, the rest of your family will need to be treated too.) Your doctor will prescribe medicine to kill the scabies and eggs, and the uncomfortableness should be gone within a few weeks. In the meantime, wash linens, towels, and clothing that you've come into contact with, as it's possible for scabies to fall off your skin and later reinfect you.

You might have experienced ringworm on your body, but it can also infect the scalp, causing itchy round patches and hair loss, the Cleveland Clinic says. To get rid of the infection, head to your doctor ASAP: Unlike ringworm on the skin which can be treated with antifungals, ringworm on the scalp requires an oral-antifungal since the infection is located deep inside the hair follicle.

Don't freak out, but scalp itchiness could be due to skin cancers like melanoma. It's always a good idea to check your scalp for any sores or weird bumps just to make sure everything is OK, and if you do think something is up, or if something feels different, make an appointment with your dermatologist right away.

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