What should you know about female hair loss with a burning scalp?

Burning may follow a new dye, relaxer, fragrance, oil or medicated product, especially if there is redness or tenderness. Inflammation, infection or nerve-related sensitivity can also cause discomfort. Scalp Ringworm may bring scale and fragile hairs. Alopecia Areata often causes smooth patches and may have little surface change, while Female Pattern Hair Loss generally develops gradually without a burning sensation. Traction Alopecia can hurt where hairstyles pull on follicles. These patterns overlap, so symptoms do not identify one cause by themselves.

Stop any recently introduced product that stings and rinse the scalp gently; do not apply more chemicals until the skin settles. Avoid scratching, tight styles and high heat. Keep a list of products and medicines, and photograph visible redness, scale or patches. A clinician can inspect the scalp, check for infection or inflammation, and choose treatment based on the findings. Do not use leftover steroid or antifungal medicine without advice.

Seek prompt care for increasing pain, swelling, blisters, pus, spreading redness, fever or sudden patchy loss. Arrange a dermatology review when burning persists, wakes you, follows a chemical exposure, or occurs with shiny skin or loss of follicle openings, which can signal damage needing early attention.

Could a product be irritating my scalp? Do you see infection, inflammation or follicle damage? Which cleansing and treatment products should I use now?