What should you know about peeling head skin?

Fine flakes after a new shampoo, dye, oil, or styling product may indicate irritation or contact dermatitis. Greasy scale around the scalp, ears, or eyebrows can occur with seborrhoeic dermatitis. Sharply defined thick plaques may occur with Psoriasis. A tender, blistered, or peeling area after sun exposure can be Sunburn. Hair loss, broken hairs, pus, or swollen glands need assessment because infection can affect the scalp. A dry scalp does not by itself identify one condition.

Wash with a mild shampoo and lukewarm water, rinse thoroughly, and avoid scratching or lifting scale with fingernails. Stop recently introduced products if the peeling began soon after using them. Keep the scalp protected from direct sun and avoid close heat from hair dryers. Do not share combs, brushes, hats, or towels while an infection is possible. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether a medicated shampoo or another treatment fits the pattern.

Seek care for painful, rapidly spreading, wet, crusted, or bleeding areas; pus; fever; facial swelling; or sudden hair loss. Arrange an appointment when peeling lasts despite gentle care, repeatedly returns, affects a child, or follows a new medicine. Prompt examination is especially useful when scale is accompanied by broken hairs or tender bumps.

Ask what the scale resembles, whether a fungal test is appropriate, which products to stop, and how to use any medicated shampoo without irritating the scalp.