Itchy scalp and hair fall: what to know

Dandruff and Seborrheic Dermatitis can make the scalp itchy and encourage scratching, which may break hairs or make shedding more noticeable. Folliculitis can inflame the skin around hairs. Scalp Psoriasis may produce thick scale that catches on hair and is difficult to remove gently. Head Lice can cause intense itching, but hair loss is not a defining feature. Diffuse shedding can also follow illness, stress, hormonal change, or nutritional problems without being caused by the itch. A clinician looks at the scalp, hair shafts, and pattern of loss together.

Use a gentle cleanser, loosen scale only as advised, and avoid nails, heat, bleaching, tight braids, and vigorous brushing. Keep a simple record of when itching and shedding began, recent illness, new medicines, and hair-product changes. Do not start several scalp treatments at once because this can irritate the skin and obscure the cause. A clinician may recommend Medicated Shampoo Treatment when scaling is present and may investigate another cause if shedding continues.

Book an appointment when hair fall is persistent, visibly patchy, or accompanied by redness, scale, pain, pus, or broken hairs. Seek prompt attention for a rapidly expanding bald area, marked swelling, fever, or severe scalp pain. Earlier review helps distinguish temporary shedding from follicle inflammation or a scalp disorder that needs targeted treatment.

Is the hair coming out from the root or breaking along the shaft? Does my scalp show inflammation or infection? Could a recent illness, medicine, or product be contributing? Should I use a medicated shampoo, and how should it be applied?