What should you know about sudden dandruff and itchy scalp?

Dandruff and Seborrheic Dermatitis commonly present with scalp flakes and itch, often with redness or greasy scale. A new shampoo, dye, styling product, or tight head covering can irritate the scalp. Scalp Psoriasis may create thicker, sharply defined scale that extends beyond the hairline. Folliculitis tends to cause tender or itchy bumps around hair follicles. Head Lice can cause intense itch, especially behind the ears and at the nape, with nits attached firmly to hairs. These patterns overlap, so the appearance of the scale, bumps, and hair findings matters more than the sudden timing alone.

Stop any newly introduced product that stings or leaves a rash, and wash with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser. Avoid scratching, picking, and sharing brushes, hats, pillows, or towels until lice has been considered. Check the nape and behind the ears in bright light if itch is intense. Medicated Shampoo Treatment may help some inflammatory or flaking patterns when used as directed. If live lice are found, Head Lice Treatment and household cleaning guidance should be discussed with a clinician or pharmacist.

Arrange a review for thick plaques, pustules, crusting, patchy hair loss, broken hairs, swollen lymph nodes, or symptoms that do not settle. Seek prompt care for fever, severe pain, rapidly spreading redness, facial swelling, or drainage. Children, pregnant people, and anyone with a weakened immune system should check treatment choices before using medicated products.

Does the scalp show Dandruff, lice, psoriasis, folliculitis, or dermatitis? Should I use a medicated shampoo, and how should it be applied? Do close contacts need checking? Which symptoms require an earlier review?