Understanding Eczema on the Scalp: Causes, Care, and Tips for Relief
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While eczema often appears on areas like the hands, elbows, and knees, the scalp is also vulnerable. Scalp eczema can lead to persistent discomfort, irritation, and even hair loss if not managed properly. This blog covers what scalp eczema is, why it occurs, who is predisposed, how to distinguish it from other conditions, and some helpful tips on managing it.
What is Eczema?
Eczema is a condition that disrupts the skin’s ability to retain moisture and defend against irritants, allergens, and infections. When eczema affects the scalp, it can cause redness, itching, dry patches, flaking, and irritation. Over time, persistent scratching can lead to inflamed, thickened skin, which may complicate treatment.
Why Does Eczema Happen?
The exact cause of eczema isn’t fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Here’s what often contributes to its onset:
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Genetics: A family history of eczema, asthma, or allergies increases the likelihood of developing eczema. People with genetic mutations that affect the skin barrier’s ability to retain moisture are especially prone.
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Immune System Dysfunction: Eczema is often considered an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the skin, resulting in inflammation and an impaired skin barrier.
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Environmental Triggers: Factors such as cold or dry weather, certain shampoos, hair care products, pollutants, and allergens can exacerbate eczema. Diet and stress also play a significant role, as these factors can trigger flare-ups in people already susceptible.
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Skin Barrier Dysfunction: People with eczema often have a compromised skin barrier that is less able to retain moisture and fend off irritants, making the scalp more vulnerable to inflammation and dryness.
Who is Predisposed to Eczema?
People with a family history of eczema, asthma, or hay fever are at higher risk. Babies and young children are especially prone to eczema, though many people can also develop it later in life. Scalp eczema is particularly common among those with sensitive skin or compromised scalp health, such as those who use harsh shampoos or style products with drying alcohols.
What Scalp Conditions Can Eczema Be Confused With?
Scalp eczema can be mistaken for other conditions, such as:
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Seborrheic Dermatitis: This condition is often mistaken for eczema due to its similar symptoms of redness, flakiness, and irritation. Seborrheic dermatitis, however, is associated with an overgrowth of yeast on the scalp and often appears greasy with yellowish flakes, while eczema flakes are usually dry and whitish.
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Psoriasis: Like eczema, psoriasis can cause red, itchy, and flaky patches on the scalp. However, psoriasis patches are often thicker, with a silver or shiny scale.
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Allergic Contact Dermatitis: Sometimes eczema-like symptoms result from an allergic reaction to hair products. If symptoms appear shortly after trying a new product, allergic contact dermatitis could be the culprit.
Caring for Scalp Eczema
When managing scalp eczema, the goal is to soothe irritation, keep the skin moisturized, and reduce triggers. Here’s how to care for your scalp if you have eczema:
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Gentle Cleansing: Use a mild shampoo free from sulfates, drying alcohols, or strong fragrances, as these can aggravate eczema. Opt for a low-pH shampoo to help maintain the scalp’s natural barrier.
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Moisturize and Protect the Scalp Barrier: Regularly moisturizing your scalp is crucial. Using a scalp treatment oil, such as Nourished by Hair and Scalp Oil, can help nourish your skin barrier. This product, enriched with hempseed oil, which soothes and heals without clogging follicles.
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Avoid Scratching: Scratching worsens inflammation and can lead to infection. When itching is intense, try using a LLLT to improve healing and reduce irritation or use a silk turban to provide a physical barrier, silk also helps to retain moisture, reducing irritation.
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Hydrating and Soothing Ingredients: Look for products like Revitalise Serum that contain hydrating, soothing ingredients like our Halo Hero Saccharide Isomerate, antioxidants that reduce irritation like Green tea, and Red clover with anti-inflammatory properties.
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Avoid Common Irritants: Certain hair care ingredients, like fragrances, can worsen eczema symptoms. Check labels for potential allergens and irritants.
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Manage Stress: Since stress can exacerbate eczema, practicing stress-management techniques like mindfulness, breathing exercises, or even a relaxing scalp massage can help keep flare-ups at bay.
Lifestyle Tips for Scalp Eczema Management
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Diet and Hydration: Staying hydrated and eating anti-inflammatory foods, such as those rich in omega-3 fatty acids, can help reduce flare-ups. For some, avoiding common dietary triggers like dairy, gluten, and sugar may also alleviate symptoms.
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Humidity Control: Dry environments can worsen eczema symptoms. If you live in a dry climate or are frequently exposed to indoor heating, consider using a humidifier to maintain a more eczema-friendly environment.
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Sun Protection: Though a small amount of sun exposure may improve eczema, prolonged exposure can dry the scalp and trigger flare-ups. Use sun protection and wear a hat if you’ll be outside for extended periods.
A healing routine using Halo
Heal and Soothe Your Scalp with Our Eczema-Friendly Routine
If you’re struggling with eczema on your scalp, our targeted healing routine is here to provide relief and support for healthier, soothed skin.
1. Prep and Protect with Nourish by Hair and Scalp Oil
Start by applying Nourish by Hair and Scalp Oil directly to your scalp. Gently massage it in to restore balance and improve your skin barrier.
2. Cleanse with Care
Use a gentle shampoo like Stimulate and Strengthen Shampoo, designed to strengthen the skin barrier without any fragrances or sulfates. Follow with a conditioner tailored to your hair’s needs, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends.
3. Soothe and Heal with Revitalise Scalp Serum
After cleansing and conditioning, apply Revitalise Hair and Scalp Serum to your scalp. This powerful serum helps to soothe and promote healing and can be used daily for optimal results.
5. Enhance Your Healing Routine
To lock in moisture and further protect your scalp, incorporate silk pillowcases or hair wraps into your routine. For deeper healing, add low-level light therapy (LLLT) to reduce inflammation and promote repair.
With Halo Haircare’s eczema-focused routine, you can take the first steps toward a healthier, more comfortable scalp. Visit www.halohaircare.co.nz to explore these products and start your healing journey today!
When to Seek Professional Help
If your symptoms are severe or don’t improve with at-home care, it’s essential to consult a dermatologist or trichologist (that's us). They can diagnose the exact nature of your scalp condition and may recommend medicated shampoos, topical corticosteroids, or other treatments. In most cases, light therapy (phototherapy) as stated above is effective for managing severe eczema.
Final Thoughts
Managing scalp eczema requires a combination of gentle care, lifestyle adjustments, and possibly professional intervention. With the right approach, most people can keep symptoms in check and maintain a healthier scalp. Remember, consistency is key. By avoiding irritants, using gentle products, and regularly moisturizing, you can help protect your scalp and reduce the impact of eczema flare-ups.
