Itchy bumps on the head: what to know

On the scalp, itchy bumps may be linked to a new shampoo, dye, oil, hat or hair product; contact dermatitis can affect skin that touches the trigger. Dry, cracked skin may fit asteatotic eczema, while a history of sensitive skin can accompany atopic dermatitis. Thick scale beyond the hairline may suggest psoriasis. Raised marks that come and go can be hives. Intense itch at night, close contacts with similar symptoms, or bumps in other typical areas may raise concern for scabies. Tender, crusted or moist areas need examination for infection, including a skin yeast infection.

Pause recently added hair and skin products, and rinse the scalp thoroughly with lukewarm water. Avoid scratching, which can break the skin and invite infection. Keep nails short, use a plain moisturiser on dry reachable skin, and wash hats, pillowcases and hair tools if they may carry product residue. Do not share combs or brushes while the cause is uncertain. Avoid applying oils or medicated creams deep into the scalp without advice, particularly if there is oozing, marked scale or hair loss. Keep a note of exposures, timing, and whether the bumps move or fade.

Book a dermatology assessment if the itch lasts, disrupts sleep, causes bleeding, produces crusting or hair loss, or does not improve after removing a suspected irritant. Seek prompt care for fever, painful swelling, pus, rapidly spreading redness, facial swelling, or breathing difficulty. If household contacts are itchy, mention this when arranging care because it changes the questions a clinician will ask. New widespread hives with lip or tongue swelling is an emergency.

Could a product or medicine be triggering this? Does the scale or distribution fit eczema, psoriasis, hives, scabies or infection? Do I need treatment for the scalp, the hair, or both? What signs should make me return promptly?