| Here is a very brief account of some of the most common itchy flaky scalp conditions below. Self diagnosis is not recommended based on this information. All of these conditions could be confused with each other and with may other conditions which are not listed here:
Dandruff - Pityriasis Simplex Capitis
A common and irritating condition which presents as increased
exfoliation of the most external layer of scalp (stratum corneum).
The scalp is covered with loose white or yellow flakes and
may or may not itch. True dandruff is technically caused by
an overgrowth of the yeast Pityrosporon Ovale. Dandruff is
controllable by regular (daily) use of the correct shampoo
but can benefit from professional
scalp treatments initially to gain
control quickly.
Seborrhoeic Dermatitis / Eczema
This is an advancement of dandruff and a very common
scalp condition, a form of eczema which affects sebum-gland
rich areas of the skin, particularly the scalp. Seborrhoeic
dermatitis is characterised by inflammation of the scalp and
yellow waxy scales adhered to the scalp. Scalp scale form
thick hard yellow plaques. Itching is severe often leading
the sufferer to scratch profusely causing the scalp to weep
and bleed. The forehead, eyebrows and nasal folds may also
be affected. Seborrhoeic dermatitis often begins at puberty
due to hormonal changes and increased testosterone, it is
more common in men than women. This condition may require
long term treatment but is controllable and certainly benefits
from professional
scalp treatments both in long and
short term.
Atopic Eczema / Dermatitis
An allergic type skin and scalp condition, very similar to
Seborrhoeic Dermatitis but drier and tends to weep readily.
Eczema sufferers are often affected in other regions of the
body, particularly flexure areas such as the backs of knees
and inner elbows. Eczema may frequently be linked to environmental
allergies and food intolerances, it is highly recommended
eczema sufferers seek a legitimate food
intolerance test. Elimination of
a culprit food(s) could potentially minimise eczema, vastly
preferable to the lifelong dependence on emollients and corticosteroids
offered by orthodox medicine.
Scalp Psoriasis
There are many types of psoriasis but plaque psoriasis
most commonly affects the scalp. Characterised by circumscribed
patches of inflammation - deep redness, covered in loose silvery
white scales. Scalp psoriasis plaques can become very thick
if allowed to build and cause the hair to adhere the hair
to the scalp in clumps. It may split and bleed and also cause
hair thinning. Other areas of the body may also be affected,
commonly the outer elbows, kneecaps, and back but may affect
any area of skin. Other family members may also be affected
- a genetic link. Scalp psoriasis is not curable but may be
controlled
to improve quality of life.
Pityriasis Amiantacea
This condition can occur alone or as a complication of another scalp condition. Pityriasis amiantacea is characterised by thick white/silvery crusting which adheres clumps of hair to the scalp. In many cases, scale will seem to grow along hairshafts away from the scalp, overlapping like tiles on a roof. It may seem almost impossible to break down. If the crust is pulled away or picked off the scalp while dry (not recommended!), hair will be removed with it, leaving a potentially permanent bald patch. The scalp is often moist, red and sore underneath the crust. Pityriasis Amiantacea requires professional treatment to bring it under control, medicated shampoos and steroid lotions alone will have no affect on reducing or controlling this condition.
Treatment of Scalp Conditions
We have vast experience in the treatment of all manner
of scalp conditions and can advise on the best form of scalp
treatment or management for your scalp problem. You can find
further information on our scalp treatment methods and what
to expect on our scalp
treatment page. If you would like
more information, contact
us directly.
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