Scalp Problems Explained

Caring for the scalp properly is as important as caring for hair.  Yet most products are designed with only the hair in mind.  Scalp problems can be frustrating and hard to control for many individuals.  Some common issues are itching scalp, flaking scalp, dry scalp, oily scalp, and scalp acne. 

It is common for people to suffer from flaky and itchy scalp.  Dandruff is often the cause.  It consists of large flakes and can be annoying and embarrassing for some people. 

In severe cases, flakes stick together forming mounds on the head.  Dandruff is usually attributed to a fungus on the scalp.  Seborrheic dermatitis is another flaky scalp problem.  With this condition scales form, that is greasy and yellowish. 

Some people may think they have dandruff when they are only suffering from an overly dry scalp.  Dandruff flakes tend to be larger while dry scalp flakes are very tiny or small.  

There are lots of causes of the dry scalp including heredity, cold or dry weather, styling products, and the chemical found in most hair shampoos and conditioners. 

Sometimes the scalp is too oily.  The sebum gland produces oil on the scalp.  At times it may overproduce.  An oily scalp also leads to many problems like seborrhea and bumps on the scalp. 

Just as people suffer from acne on the face many people suffer from acne on the scalp.  It tends to form around the hairline most often but can occur anywhere on the scalp.  It tends to be uncomfortable and must be handled differently than facial acne.  The products used on the face may damage or bleach hair. 

The best way to deal with scalp problems is to create an overall healthy environment on the scalp.  The proper amount of oil is crucial.  Many hairs and scalp products contain chemicals that dry out the scalp.  

However, there are natural ingredients like zinc, jojoba oil, and emu oil that work to balance the scalp.  Zinc is a natural regulator for the sebum gland.  Jojoba oil and emu oil moisturize and balance the scalp.

Black Hair Itchy Scalp Causes

What causes an itchy scalp in African American hair?  It may be caused by a variety of conditions.  Some of these are dandruff, contact dermatitis, and scalp acne.  

Contact dermatitis is a common cause of itch in black hair.  Contact dermatitis is caused by something that comes into contact with the scalp.  This is usually from chemicals in hair products like perms and straighteners.  .  Black hair is particularly susceptible because of the many chemical treatments that are often used.   Tight braiding may also cause irritation as well as tightly woven extensions. 

Dandruff is common in all types of hair.  It is characterized by medium to large flakes and itch.  In extreme cases, flakes may mound together on the scalp.  It is both itchy and embarrassing to many people. 

Scalp acne may occur in black hair.  It is similar to acne on the face but can be harder to treat buried beneath the hair.  It may be minor with a few bumps or more severe with large bumps or cysts.  Scratching may cause scars or keloids to form. 

Causes of Itchy Scalp In Black Hair

Regulating oil on the scalp is the first step to reduce itchiness.  Oil is produced by the sebum gland.  If the sebum is overproducing the scalp will be too oily causing problems to occur.  Excess oil allows bacteria and other foreign agents to multiply and take hold of the scalp.  

Alternatively, if the scalp is too dry another set of problems and conditions will start.   In an overly dry scalp, the hair follicle will not close completely and bacteria can get trapped inside causing bumps and irritation. 

There are natural ingredients that help clean the scalp and follicle as well as regulate the sebum gland to create a balanced scalp.  Some of the best natural ingredients for scalp health are zinc, thyme, sage, emu oil, and jojoba oil.