How To Treat Scalp Eczema – Causes, Symptoms, Remedy

Irritation on the skin or scalp resulting in inflammation, dryness and redness around the skin could possibly be due to eczema. Just like skin, scalp eczema is common too. The scalp might display redness and scanlines or appear paler compared to the surrounding skin, accompanied by the potential occurrence of dandruff. If you are wondering how to treat scalp eczema, it can easily be done at home with proper precautions. 

Above anything else, it is important to understand how serious the inflammation is around the scalp area. In this article, we will discuss how to treat scalp eczema and its remedies. Let’s delve into the details to know more.

What does scalp eczema look like?

Scalp eczema can be understood and visualized with various characteristics. If you are wanting to know how to treat scalp eczema, you will have to know the visuals of it. Here are the pointers below – 

1. There could be redness and inflammation on the affected areas of the scalp. 
2. This could be further accompanied by dryness, flakiness, and scaliness. 
3. The affected layer of the skin could even have cracks or might become rough on the surface. 
4. In certain situations, the affected areas of the skin could even have bumpy rough texture. 

Individuals with scalp eczema may encounter sensations of itchiness and discomfort. It’s crucial to understand that the visual presentation of scalp eczema can differ among individuals, spanning from mild to more pronounced symptoms. Seeking guidance from a dermatologist is advisable to ensure precise diagnosis and suitable treatment 

Is scalp eczema dangerous? 

No, scalp eczema is not considered dangerous. Most of the people in the world tend to get eczema. On the contrary, scalp eczema is rare. The look and feel of scalp eczema could be the same as the one on the skin and so are the triggers.  

In some cases, excessive scratching due to itching can result in skin damage and even secondary infections. While scalp eczema itself is not life-threatening, seeking proper treatment and management is important to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.  

How long does scalp eczema last? 

It varies from children to adults. When it comes to babies or children, it might last between six months to a year. On the other hand, for adults, it could last for years and suddenly leave.  

If you are willing to understand how to treat scalp eczema, the focus should be on the duration that largely varies on factors like seriousness of the condition and individual response to the treatment. Treatment would help in controlling the symptoms while for some, it might just fade away without anything in consideration.  

Is scalp eczema contagious? 

No, scalp eczema is not contagious. Eczema is a skin condition caused by various factors, including genetics, immune responses, and environmental triggers. As it is not caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi, there is no possibility of it spreading from person to person.  

More of a chronic inflammatory condition, eczema or Seborrheic dermatitis occurs due to sebum overproduction. Therefore, you cannot catch scalp eczema from someone else. 

Does scalp eczema spread? 

Scalp eczema isn’t transmitted like a contagious infection; however, the affected areas can extend across the person’s scalp or to other body regions due to factors like irritation, inflammation, and scratching.  

Excessive scratching or picking can cause the condition to spread to nearby skin. Moreover, if the root cause of scalp eczema remains untreated, it may persist in various scalp regions. Effective management is crucial to mitigate the potential for its spread.  

What causes scalp eczema? 

Also known as Seborrheic dermatitis, eczema arises from a blend of genetic and environmental influences. It typically stems from an inflammatory response to excessive Malassezia yeast which naturally inhabits the skin’s surface. The overgrowth of this yeast and an overactive immune system can lead to a fungal infection triggering skin alterations. Some medical conditions, like psoriasis, HIV, and more, can heighten the susceptibility to seborrheic dermatitis.  

On the other hand, there are common factors too that lead to the cause of scalp eczema. Here are some of the factors stated below –   

• Genetics: Family history of eczema or other allergies can raise the risk of developing scalp eczema.  
• Immune System Responses: Abnormal immune reactions leading to skin inflammation can contribute to eczema.  
• Environmental Factors: Allergens, irritants, extreme temperatures, and humidity can trigger or worsen scalp eczema.  
• Stress: Emotional stress or psychological factors might exacerbate eczema symptoms.  
• Skin Barrier Dysfunction: Compromised skin barrier can heighten susceptibility to eczema.  
• Harsh Hair Products: Certain hair products with chemicals or fragrances can irritate the scalp.  
• Dry Skin: Dry skin can lead to itching and worsen eczema on the scalp.  
• Microorganisms: Fungal or bacterial infections may trigger or worsen scalp eczema.  
• Hormonal Changes: Hormone fluctuations, like during pregnancy, can affect skin sensitivity and contribute to eczema.  
• Diet and Allergies: Specific food allergies or sensitivities may cause eczema flare-ups in some individuals.  
• Weather Changes: Cold, dry weather or seasonal transitions can trigger flare-ups.  
• Medications: Certain drugs like psoralen, interferon, and lithium might contribute to scalp eczema.  
• Medical Conditions: Conditions like HIV and Parkinson’s disease can increase susceptibility to scalp eczema.  

Is scalp eczema curable? 

The answer is a yes and a no! Scalp eczema is generally chronic, lacking a permanent cure. If you want to know how to treat scalp eczema, proper management and treatment often control symptoms, revisioning periods with milder or absent symptoms are possible.   

Scalp eczema symptoms 

The symptoms of scalp eczema tend to vary with the type of eczema that you have. Below are some of the common symptoms that you may come across when you are suffering from eczema on the scalp –  

• Redness and inflammation on the scalp.  
• Itchiness and discomfort.  
• Flakiness and dandruff-like flakes.  
• Dry, rough, or scaly patches.  
• Irritation and sensitivity.  
• Burning or stinging sensation.  
• Hair loss in severe cases.  
• Crust or oozing in more severe or infected cases.  

Symptoms of scalp eczema based on its type include:  

Seborrheic Dermatitis:  

• Scaly patches causing yellow or white flakes (dandruff)  
• Redness  
• Inflammation  
• Greasy appearance  
• Burning sensation  

Atopic Dermatitis:  

• Dry skin  
• Itchiness  
• Redness  
• Soreness  
• Thick skin  

Contact Dermatitis:  

• Redness  
• Hives  
• Blisters or sores  
• Pain and burning  
• Itchiness  

Can scalp eczema go away on its own? 

As already stated, scalp eczema doesn’t have a permanent cure. While scalp eczema might show improvement or enter remission spontaneously, complete resolution is unlikely without appropriate management and treatment. Variables like the individual’s immune response, triggers, and lifestyle play a role in temporary relief. Nonetheless, effective management techniques, skincare routines, and occasionally medical intervention are often crucial for symptom control and preventing recurrences in the majority of cases.   

Scalp eczema treatment at home 

1. Rosehip Seed Oil and Tea Tree Oil   

Including rosehip seed oil and tree tree oil would work as an effective scalp eczema treatment at home. Below are the benefits of each ingredient used.   

Rosehip Seed Oil:  

• Moisturization: Rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, it soothes dry, irritated scalp skin.  
• Anti-Inflammatory: Can reduce redness and inflammation linked to scalp eczema.  
• Skin Barrier Support: Reinforces compromised skin barrier in eczema.  

Tea Tree Oil:  

• Antiseptic: Prevents bacterial/fungal infections that worsen scalp eczema.  
• Anti-Inflammatory: Eases itching and irritation, similar to rosehip seed oil.  

How to use –   

• Blend 4 parts rosehip seed oil with 1 part tea tree oil.  
• Apply with a dropper to the desired area.  

Pro- Tip – Remember, patch test first before application of the mixture on the scalp.     

2. Aloe Vera Juice Mask   

Aloe vera juice is a natural remedy that some people use to help manage scalp eczema. Here’s a brief overview of how an aloe vera juice mask might be beneficial:  

• Soothing: Eases itch and irritation linked to scalp eczema due to natural properties.  
• Hydration: Combats scalp dryness and flakiness with its moisturizing effects.  
• Anti-Inflammatory: May reduce redness and inflammation connected to scalp eczema.  
• Healing: Nutrients and enzymes in aloe vera could support healing and repair of damaged scalp skin.  

How to use –   

• If fresh aloe leaf is available, it’s preferable for optimal benefits.  
• For bottled aloe vera, remember that fresh plant gel is most effective.:  
• Cut off the sides of the aloe leaf to extract the clear sticky gel   
• Place the gel in the blender and blend until smooth.  
• After shampooing and conditioning, apply the juice onto your scalp.  
• Let it sit for about 1 hour.  
• Rinse thoroughly.  

3. Utilizing Hot Oil Treatments (Coconut Oil or Jojoba Oil)   

Coconut oil and jojoba oil are two natural remedies that could be considered for scalp eczema treatment at home. Here’s a brief overview of their potential benefits  

Coconut Oil:  

• Hydration: Moisturizes the scalp, lessening dryness and flakiness tied to eczema.  
• Anti-Inflammatory: Contains compounds potentially easing inflammation and itching.  
• Anti-Fungal: May combat fungal infections worsening scalp eczema.  

Jojoba Oil:  

• Resembles Natural Oils: Closely mimics scalp’s natural oils, suitable for moisturization.  
• Hydration: Provides scalp hydration, lessening dryness and itchiness.  
• Gentle and Non-Irritating: Generally well-tolerated, minimizes skin irritation.  

How to use –   

• After hair cleansing, apply warm coconut or jojoba oil directly to the scalp using a nozzle-tipped bottle.  
• To warm the oil, microwave a mug of water for 1 minute, then place the oil bottle in the mug for gradual warming.  
• After applying the oils and wearing a plastic cap, allow the mixture to sit for 30 minutes before rinsing.  

4. Apple Cider Vinegar    

There is a debate of whether to use Apple Cider Vinegar or not. It may suit some but not all. Performing a patch test is the best idea. Here are the below benefits of using ACV –   

• pH Balance: Presence of acidity in apple cider vinegar aids in balancing scalp pH, potentially lessening inflammation and itchiness.  
• Anti-Inflammatory: May offer relief from redness and irritation due to its anti-inflammatory traits.  
• Antibacterial and Antifungal: Antimicrobial properties may combat scalp eczema-aggravating bacteria or fungi.  
• Exfoliation: Delicately exfoliates the scalp, assisting in the removal of dead skin cells and flakes.  

How to use –   

• Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water to dilute its acidity.  
• Apply the diluted mixture to the scalp using a cotton ball or spray bottle.  
• Gently massage the mixture into the scalp, allowing it to sit for a few minutes. 
• Rinse thoroughly with water.  
• Follow up with a gentle, hypoallergenic moisturizer.  

5. Herbal Tea 

Using herbal tea like chamomile, calendula or even peppermint tea would help in treating or lessening the symptoms of scalp eczema at home. Here are some benefits of the teas that you should know –   

• Soothing Inflammation: Chamomile’s anti-inflammatory properties could soothe an irritated scalp.  
• Calming Effect: Offers relief from itchiness and discomfort.  
• Skin Repair: Calendula’s skin-healing traits aid in repairing and soothing the scalp.  
• Cooling Relief: The cooling sensation of peppermint tea might alleviate itching and inflammation.  
• Combat Bacteria: Peppermint’s antibacterial nature could address potential scalp bacterial issues.  

How to use –   

• Prepare a cup of herbal tea and let it cool to a comfortable temperature.  
• Pour the cooled tea into a bottle with a nozzle tip for easy application.  
• Directly apply the herbal tea to your scalp after shampooing.  
• Allow the tea to sit on your scalp for a few minutes.  
• Rinse your scalp thoroughly with water.  
• Finish by applying your regular conditioner as usual.  

Conclusion 

Scalp eczema is no joke. It is better to consult a doctor beforehand to understand what type it is. It is not necessary to always use medicines, it tends to heal on its own as well. But before it does, consulting a doctor would give you clarity in the healing process. You may adopt the natural remedies for lessening the symptoms making sure that it will suit your scalp by conducting a patch test.  

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