Scalp diseases and their variety you need to know

Just like other parts of the skin, the scalp functions to protect the layer underneath, namely the head. The part that is covered by this hair is also often having problems. Check out what scalp diseases often occur and how to treat them.

Various scalp diseases and their explanations

One of the symptoms that indicate a problem with the scalp is difficulty overcoming an unbearable itchy scalp. Most people may feel that this condition can produce dandruff.

In fact, there are various scalp diseases that cause itching in the area. Here are some types of scalp problems that you need to identify to make it easier to treat them.

1. Dandruff

Dandruff is one of the scalp diseases that most people experience, regardless of age, gender and race.

The white flakes that stain the hair are actually coconut skin which peels off faster. As a result, these scalp granules accumulate and form flakes.

The main cause of dandruff is the growth of fungi that live on the hair. Generally, people who do not maintain hair hygiene properly are more prone to experiencing this scalp problem.

Even though there is no cure yet, overcoming dandruff is quite easy, namely by regularly washing your hair using anti-dandruff shampoo. If left untreated, these white flakes can thicken, spread, and cause itching to burn on the scalp.

2. Head lice

Children may experience head lice problems more often than adults. This is because this scalp disease is easily transmitted from combs, hats, or brushes that are used alternately by children.

Although they do not cause serious conditions, head lice can suck blood and cause an itchy scalp. That is why, the presence of lice in the hair is one of the most annoying problems.

The good news is that hair curls can be treated with shampoos or special drugs that contain ivermectin. Apart from keeping your hair clean, you also need to clean your clothes, hats, towels, and blankets with hot water.

3. Folliculitis

Folliculitis is a skin problem that occurs due to inflammation of the hair follicle (root). This scalp problem is usually characterized by red bumps that resemble pustules (pus), feel itchy, and hot.

Inflamed hair follicles are usually caused by bacteria due to irritation that occurs when shaving or using facial cosmetics. Apart from the scalp, folliculitis can also occur in parts of the body that have hair, such as the beard, arms, and genitals.

Although not considered dangerous, this scalp problem can cause an itching sensation, pain, and discomfort. In fact, severe folliculitis can leave scars and cause severe hair loss.

If the symptoms you are experiencing are mild enough, you can treat them at home. However, for more severe and recurrent folliculitis, you need to see a dermatologist.

4. Psoriasis of the scalp

Psoriasis is a fairly common skin disease characterized by thickened, scaly red patches (plaques). This condition is a scalp disease because it can affect all parts of the scalp, including the back of the head.

If you see thick, silvery-white scales on your skin that are thickened, you may have scalp psoriasis. Some people may not be aware of this problem because they are often covered in hair.

Even so, these flakes of scales on the scalp can produce "dandruff" which is severe. As a result, many people feel embarrassed or think that this is a common dandruff problem.

Therefore, you should immediately consult a doctor when you feel there is a different texture on the scalp and cause severe dandruff.

5. Seborrheic dermatitis

Apart from folliculitis, a scalp disease caused by a bacterial or fungal infection is seborrheic dermatitis. Seborrheic dermatitis can cause a rash, dry, scaly skin, and sometimes peeling like dandruff.

In severe cases, seborrheic dermatitis can result in an oily scalp that tends to appear reddish. Unlike dandruff, this condition can attack other parts of the skin, not only on the scalp.

This type of dermatitis can usually be treated using special shampoos, soaps, and lotions that are prescribed by a doctor. You also need to regularly clean flaking skin flakes and use a hair conditioner so that the scalp doesn't dry out.

6.Tinea Capitis (scalp ringworm)

Tinea capitis is a fungal infection that causes red, ring-shaped patches on the skin. If it affects the scalp or it is also called tinea capitis, the area will be scaly and tend to be bald.

If not treated immediately, this scalp problem can spread to other skin areas. Therefore, you need to see a dermatologist to treat ringworm.

In order not to get this disease again, you need to keep your body and home clean. Always wash your hands after traveling, swimming or handling pets.

7. The scalp is sunburnt

Who would have thought that the scalp can also get sunburned. This scalp problem is more prone to occur in people with thin hair and frequent activities in the sun.

If your scalp is sunburned, it will certainly cause discomfort. Redness, itching, burning, and watery blisters can be felt on your scalp.

Even so, you don't need to worry because this condition can be treated with various home remedies as follows.

• Wash the head with cold water to relieve pain.
• Avoid hair care products.
• Use mild shampoo products, such as alcohol-free and surfactants.
• Dry hair naturally without help hair dryer.

If you feel the cause of this itchy scalp is quite disturbing, please consult a dermatologist or dermatologist.

8. Lichen planus

Lichen planus is an inflammatory condition that affects the mucous membranes and skin, including the scalp. Generally, lichen planus is characterized by scaly, reddish skin around hair follicles, bald patches (pitak), and itching of the scalp.

This type of skin disease can leave permanent scars that can lead to hair loss. It is not known what causes this itchy scalp, but lichen planus is considered an autoimmune disorder.

If you have this problem, your doctor will usually prescribe topical medications and recommend light therapy.

9. Sebaceous cysts

Sebaceous cysts or epidermoid cysts are conditions when the keratin grows excessively and forms a small sac or capsule. Sebaceous cysts usually have fine, harmless bumps on the surface of the skin.

Apart from being non-cancerous, these cysts that can be found on the back and scalp do not need to be removed, unless they cause pain and itching.

The bumps that appear on the scalp are caused by a few cells near the surface of the skin getting into the deeper parts of the skin. These cells continue to multiply and form pockets and produce keratin.

As a result, the keratin becomes wet and produces a cheese-like substance. This condition usually occurs without a specific reason, so you can't prevent it. It is also not related to hair breakage or flaking.

10. Alopecia areata

If you notice an area on your scalp where hair is not growing after you fall out, it is possible that the problem is alopecia.

Alopecia aka baldness is a medical condition characterized by severe hair loss that results in baldness. In severe cases, your scalp will be covered with small, itchy spots.

This itching sensation is usually an early symptom of alopecia areata. If you feel that your scalp is very itchy and is accompanied by severe hair loss, consult a dermatologist immediately.

Scalp disease is not only characterized by itching or pain in the area. Sometimes these health problems do not cause any symptoms and they develop to be quite severe.

If you have further questions, you should ask a dermatologist or dermatologist for the right solution.