Treatments vary depending on the cause of the itchiness and hair loss. Your doctor may recommend:
- steroids (taken orally or applied to the scalp via cream or injection) to reduce inflammation
- antifungals (applied topically or orally) to combat yeast
- immunotherapy medication to turn the immune response on or off
Common therapies to treat hair loss include:
- minoxidil (Rogaine) to slow hair loss and regrow new hair
- finasteride (Propecia) to treat inherited baldness
- hair transplantation
Not every itchy scalp with hair loss
needs medical treatment. Here are some things you can do yourself to
ensure that your scalp and hair stay healthy.
Eat a healthy diet
Important nutrients for hair and scalp health include:
- iron
- zinc
- niacin
- selenium
One
caveat: Don’t take these nutrients in supplement form unless you know
you have a deficiency. According to research published in Dermatology Practical and Conceptual,
there’s no good scientific evidence showing these supplements prevent
hair loss if you already have adequate amounts in your body. What’s
more, over-supplementation can actually
cause hair loss.
Use targeted shampoos
If you have dandruff, for example, use a shampoo that contains selenium or zinc to combat yeast.
Try essential oils
There isn’t a much scientific evidence available, but some animal studies have shown that using certain
essential oils, such as
rosemary and
peppermint,
can slow hair loss and promote new hair growth. Essential oils need to
be diluted with a carrier oil before applying to the scalp.
Enjoy a scalp massage
Research published in
Eplasty shows that scalp massage can increase the thickness of hair, possibly by increasing blood flow or by stimulating hair cells.
Treat hair gently
To limit hair loss:
- do not scratch vigorously
- do not wear your hair tied tightly in a ponytail
- do not expose your scalp and hair to high heat and styling products
- wash with a gentle shampoo and let air dry, at least until you figure out what’s causing your scalp itchiness and hair loss
Some
skin conditions that cause an itchy scalp and hair loss are beyond your
control. But recognizing and treating the condition promptly — with
special shampoos, changes in diet, or a visit to a dermatologist — is
key to effective treatment and limiting hair loss.
Signs that you should seek medical treatment for your itchy scalp and any subsequent hair loss include:
- itchiness that’s so severe it interrupts your sleep or interferes with your normal activities
- scalp that’s burning or sore to the touch
- crusty patches on your scalp
- bald patches, or if you’re losing hair in clumps or you see unexpected hair thinning
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