What should you know about super dry itchy scalp?

Dryness can follow frequent washing, hot water, fragranced products, hair dye, or a dry environment. Flaking with an oily or irritated scalp can occur with dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis. Thick, well-defined plaques may fit scalp psoriasis, while tender bumps can occur with folliculitis. Intense itch with visible nits or affected household contacts raises the possibility of head lice. These conditions can overlap, and the appearance of the scalp helps guide treatment.

Pause newly introduced dyes, oils, sprays, and fragranced products. Wash with lukewarm water, avoid scratching, and keep nails short to limit skin breaks. Do not share combs, hats, or brushes if lice are possible. A pharmacist or clinician may recommend a medicated shampoo treatment for a suitable scalp condition, while suspected lice need a specific head lice treatment and contact precautions. Follow the product directions and avoid applying medicines to broken skin unless advised.

Seek medical advice if the itch lasts, repeatedly returns, or is accompanied by pain, pus, bleeding, thick plaques, or areas of hair loss. Arrange prompt review when symptoms spread quickly, follow a chemical treatment, or affect a child with possible lice. Urgent care is appropriate for facial swelling, breathing difficulty, or a rapidly worsening allergic reaction.

Does the scalp look dry, inflamed, infected, or infested? Which shampoo is appropriate and how often should I use it? Should close contacts be checked? Could a product or medicine be causing the itch? What signs mean I should return sooner?