Human scalp is a part of the head and in most people, it is covered by hair. Scalp area extends from the hairline in the front to the nape of the neck at the back. Sideways it extends from ear to ear. This area of head is coarsely packed with hair follicles. It is because of excess of hair follicles that the scalp appears hairy. Everyone desires to have healthy and attractive hair to uplift their personality. However, damaged scalp skin can sometimes mar a person’s desire.
There are several causes that can damage the scalp.
Some conditions that cause damage to the scalp can be cured at home while some may require treatment of a dermatologist.
What Are The Causes Of Damaged Scalp?
A damaged scalp can result due to several causes which include:
- Sunburn: A sunburned scalp can be a painful condition.It is caused due to too much exposure to sunrays. Especially bald persons are prone to sunburn when they are exposed to too much of sunlight. The skin of sunburned scalp peels off as it heals.
- The scalp skin can be damaged due to certain hair treatment. Applying hair dye can cause allergic reaction in certain individuals. It may affect scalp skin and the affected area may have blisters or sore skin. Hair extension techniques can cause inflammation on the scalp.
- Seborrheic dermatitis is an inflammatory condition of the scalp. It causes itching and flaking of scalp skin. These flakes are called dandruff.
- Psoriasis of the scalp is a common skin condition in people who suffer from psoriasis. It is an autoimmune disease. Dry, red and scaly skin patches develop on the scalp. It is extremely itchy. In its acute form, the skin is tender and patient has difficulty combing his hair. Slightest touch of the comb can cause pain and bleeding.
- Ringworm of the scalp is not uncommon. Ringworm is a fungal infection and it produces ring-like skin lesions on the scalp. It can cause hair loss. Itching may or may not be a prominent symptom.
- Head lice are tiny parasites which cause extreme itching and an allergic reaction on the scalp. Hair lice are also called pediculosis. Poor hygiene and improper hair care can spread lice from one person to another.
Home Remedies To Treat Damaged Scalp
There are several ways to prevent and treat damage caused to the scalp. Few precautionary measures help reduce the risk of scalp damage.
- While going out in the sun, apply sunscreen on the scalp area, especially if a person is bald. You can apply sunscreen also on the hairline and at the nape of the neck. Wear a cotton hat which protects the scalp from direct sunlight. If sunburn has already developed on the scalp, apply cow’s milk on the scalp with a cloth. Aloe vera gel is another useful home remedy to treat sunburn on the scalp.
- Regular application of gentle exfoliating shampoo helps remove flakes and skin peels from the scalp. It is commonly observed in conditions such as scalp psoriasis and scalp eczema.
- It is possible to avoid chemical burn if a person properly follows instructions recommended by the manufacturer for the time duration for applying color, perms etc.
- In case of fungus infection, applying tea tree oil is an effective way in treating the condition. Apply a small amount of tea tree oil on the ringworm area regularly till the lesion has completely vanished.
- In case of lice infection, the use of essential oil remarkably helps reduce their colonies. Tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil or peppermint oil are useful oils to kill lice. Add a few drops of any of these essential oils to one or two teaspoons of coconut or olive oil. They act as a carrier oil. Apply the same on the scalp with your finger tips. Keep it overnight and wash your hair in the morning. Follow it couple of times.