Types of Scalp Problems

Scalp problems may cause complications with the texture of the hair, the health of the hair and with the growth and loss of the hair. Problems associated with the scalp are easily treated within the home using home remedies or medicated shampoos and creams.

Alopecia

• Alopecia is a hair condition that affects men and women alike. Having alopecia may affect the frontal portion, the middle portion, the temporal lobe, or the scalp as a whole. Causes of alopecia may include chemotherapy treatments, certain prescription medications, stress, and the overproduction of DHT in the scalp, which adversely affects the hair growth cycle. Use a DHT blocker such as Rogaine, or an herbal DHT blocker such as saw palmetto, to prevent the production of DHT in the scalp.

Ringworm

• Ringworm of the scalp is caused by fungal infection of the skin of the scalp. Physical signs of ringworm in the scalp include scaly buildup on the skin of the scalp. Ringworm of the scalp is more likely to occur in people with weakened immune systems due to diseases such as AIDS, cancer and diabetes. Ringworm of the scalp, as well as many other scalp conditions, may be treated through the use of scalp massage as well as anti-fungal agents including apple cider vinegar, and through the use of anti-dandruff shampoos

Seborrheic Dermatitis

• Seborrheic dermatitis is a more advanced type of dandruff which manifests itself through scaly skin and flakes in the scalp. Untreated seborrheic dermatitis causes hair loss in some people. Seborrheic dermatitis is easily treated through the use of medicated shampoos such as Neutrogena T-Gel, Medi-Dan, and Dermarest, which work by cleansing the pores of the skin of the scalp and by preventing the production of excessive sebum in the scalp.

Lice

• Head lice may be transmitted by sharing combs and hairbrushes and towels. Head lice may cause itching of the scalp as the eggs of the head lice begin to hatch on the scalp. Head lice is more cause for embarrassment than a threat to a person's overall health. Head lice can be treated through the use of shampoos and other alternative medicines including using apple cider vinegar and water to cleanse the scalp and kill the eggs that cause head lice. Clean pillowcases, the backs of furniture and chairs where the head of an infected person may have made contact. Use a disinfectant spray such as Lysol to cleanse those surfaces.

Ingrown Hairs

• Ingrown hairs of the scalp can be caused by improper washing technique and cutting against the natural grain of the hair. Wash the hair from front to back. Shave the hair of the scalp from front to back. Avoid wearing tight hats and caps after shaving the head. Lack of air to the scalp can cause ingrown scalp hairs. Use sharp blades when shaving and cutting the hair to avoid the risk of nicks, which can cause ingrown scalp hair.

Acne

• Acne may develop on the scalp just as on any other part of the body. Scalp acne may cause redness on the scalp, itching, and pain during brushing, styling, grooming and washing of the hair. Avoid using hair-care products that contain excessive oil. Clear scalp acne using an anti-dandruff shampoo.

Treatments

• Treating scalp problems may be easily done in the home using anti-dandruff shampoos and natural anti-fungal treatments such as apple cider vinegar. Scalp massage can also be beneficial in providing an environment in the scalp not suitable for the growth of head lice and ringworm.