Itchy face and scalp: what to know

A new shampoo, hair dye, fragrance, sunscreen, or styling product can irritate both the scalp and areas where it touches the face. Dandruff or Seborrheic Dermatitis may affect the scalp, eyebrows, sides of the nose, and ears. Scalp Psoriasis can produce persistent scale and may extend to the hairline. Lice usually causes scalp itch and may be found by inspecting close to the roots. Folliculitis is more likely when there are pimple-like bumps around hairs. The distribution and timing matter.

Stop any recently introduced product and keep a simple routine until the cause is clearer. Wash with lukewarm water, use a mild cleanser, and avoid scrubbing or picking scale. Rinse shampoo away from the face and keep towels, hats, and brushes personal while lice is being considered. A clinician may recommend Medicated Shampoo Treatment or another targeted option; use it exactly as directed and avoid applying scalp products near the eyes.

Arrange care if itch lasts, returns, causes sleep loss, or is accompanied by scale, crusting, bumps, or hair loss. Get prompt medical help for facial swelling, eye involvement, breathing difficulty, widespread blistering, fever, pus, or rapidly worsening pain and redness. A clinician can separate product irritation from a condition needing prescription treatment.

Which product should I stop first? Does the pattern fit dermatitis, dandruff, psoriasis, lice, or folliculitis? Is anything safe to use near my eyes? Should household or close contacts be checked?