Why does my head keep itching?

Look for clues such as flakes, redness, thick patches, sores, hair loss, or itching elsewhere. Asteatotic eczema and atopic dermatitis can cause dry, irritated skin; contact dermatitis may follow a new dye, shampoo, or styling product. Psoriasis, lichen planus, scabies, hives, or a skin yeast infection can need different treatment. An itchy scalp does not by itself identify one diagnosis.

Pause newly introduced hair products and wash with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser. Avoid scratching, picking, tight hairstyles, and sharing combs or hats. Photograph visible changes and note when symptoms began. A clinician can examine the scalp and choose treatment based on whether the problem is dry, inflamed, contagious, or infected.

Book an assessment when itching lasts, disrupts sleep, causes bleeding, or comes with spreading rash, crusting, pus, tender swelling, or patchy hair loss. Seek urgent care for facial swelling, breathing difficulty, or a rapidly spreading reaction.

Could a hair product be irritating my scalp? Are there signs of eczema, psoriasis, infestation, or infection? What should I use, and how should I prevent scratching while the skin heals?