An itchy scalp is a common symptom that’s often associated with various conditions. It can also sometimes be accompanied by hair loss in both women and men1.
If you’re experiencing an itchy head, and are worried you may be losing your hair too, you’ll find plenty of information about the potential connection between the two below.
We’ll outline some potential causes, and treatment options, as well.
The link between an itchy scalp and hair loss
Certain medical conditions, such as ‘scalp psoriasis’, can actually cause both itchiness and hair loss as symptoms2.
Other conditions where the two may be directly linked include1:
Dandruff
Alopecia areata
Tinea capitis (ringworm)
Allergic reactions
Folliculitis
Lichen planopilaris
Interestingly, however, it’s possible that an itchy scalp can indirectly lead to or cause hair loss itself. For example, excessive scratching of the scalp due to itchiness can damage your hair follicles, resulting in bald patches and other signs of hair loss1.
What causes an itchy scalp and hair loss?
Common causes of itchy scalp and hair loss in both female and male cases include:
Dandruff and yeast infections
Dead skin cells known as dandruff, found atop the head, are usually caused by overactive oil glands or a yeast infection of the scalp and hair follicles6. Itching and inflammation can be common symptoms of dandruff. In more severe cases, excessive dandruff can weaken a person’s hair at the root, which can result in hair loss1. This is, however, rare.
Scalp Psoriasis
This condition, associated with rough, scaly patches of skin, tends to occur when the body’s immune system causes skin cells to reproduce too quickly3. It can affect specific parts of your scalp, or the whole scalp in general. People with this condition may experience itchiness and, in extreme cases, temporary hair loss2.
Alopecia areata
This is a type of autoimmune condition that often runs in families4. Not only can it cause itchiness on the scalp, but it often leads to tufts of hair falling out too. This can then result in circular patches of baldness1.
Ringworm of the scalp
Also known as tinea capitis, ringworm of the scalp is a fungal infection that can cause itchiness and hair loss. This condition may see hair break off at the surface of the scalp or just above, which can then leave behind ‘hair stubs’ in their place1.
Allergic reactions
In severe cases, an allergic reaction to a substance such as hair dye can sometimes cause both an itchy scalp and accompanying hair loss1.
Prognosis
If your hair loss is caused by an underlying scalp condition, it will usually grow back once the scalp condition is treated1. However, in some cases, certain conditions may cause permanent hair loss – or require more innovative solutions1.
Treatment for itchy scalp and hair loss
The right treatment for your scalp will usually depend on what’s causing your symptoms. If you’re concerned or in need of advice, be sure to consult your GP1.
Available treatment options can include:
Topical treatments
For conditions such as scalp psoriasis, your doctor may recommend a combination of topical treatments such as a special shampoo with an ointment5.
Anti-dandruff shampoos
Anti-dandruff shampoos may help with itching. There are various options available at pharmacies and supermarkets. For a medicinal treatment, you can look for a product containing one of the following ingredients: selenium sulphide, ketoconazole, or coal tar with salicylic acid. For a non-medicinal treatment that helps remove dandruff build-up, repair damaged hair and relieve dryness, you could try T/Gel® Anti-Dandruff Shampoo.
Alternative options
Not every itchy head or case of hair loss will require dedicated treatment. For advice on what may be helpful for you, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
Tips to help prevent further hair loss
There are also some day-to-day changes you can potentially make to help manage or lessen any scalp itchiness or thinning hair.
Avoid excessively scratching your scalp. This could lead to further hair loss and scalp irritation1. Wearing a loose head covering or keeping your hands ‘busy’ with something like a fidget spinner might help.
Avoid tight hair styles. Hairstyles such as pigtails, buns, cornrows and braids can pull on your hair and lead to hair loss caused by traction alopecia8.
Avoid heat-based styling products. Heat can weaken your hair and cause it to dry out, making it more prone to damage. Try to limit your use of tools such as hair dryers, straighteners and curling tongs8.
Switch to gentle based hair care products - while you work out what’s causing your itchy scalp and hair loss symptoms1.
When to see a doctor
You should consult a doctor if you notice any of the following:
Your scalp is so itchy that it’s disrupting your sleep or daily activities
Your scalp feels extremely sore, or as if it is ‘burning’
You have crusty patches on your scalp
You think you are experiencing an allergic reaction
You have bald patches, you notice that you’re losing hair in clumps, or you experience unexpected hair thinning1.
Please note: REGAINE® is not a treatment for medical conditions mentioned in this article.