What Causes Tender Scalp

Your scalp may suffer from different problems such as flaking or crusting, itching and development of blisters, sores or bumps on the scalp. Various reasons can make your scalp tender and itchy. The scalp becomes sore and tender on touching and even on the movement of hair. Read on to know more about what causes tender scalp conditions.

What Causes a Tender Scalp

In most cases, lack of hygiene is a major reason for a tender, itchy scalp. In other cases, excessive use of hair care products that contain harsh chemicals can be the cause of tender scalp. Some of the main causes of tender scalp are as follows:-

• Most cosmetic shampoos contain an aggressive foaming and cleansing agent called Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLS). This chemical removes the natural sebum from the scalp and affect its pH balance. These natural oils (sebum) are essential for protecting the scalp from several fungal infections. When the skin becomes tender and dry, it may become susceptible to infection caused by parasitic microorganisms such as Pityrosporum Ovale or Malassezia Globbosa.
• Due to yeast infections, there may be flaking and dandruff formation which induces feelings of itchiness. This causes the affected individual to repeatedly scratch his/her head, leading to damage to the skin of the scalp which, taken to extremes, can result in weeping sores on scalp.
• Tender hair follicles may result from too tightly tied hair. Many shampoos contain harsh ingredients, which destroy the hair follicles. These chemicals also destroy the sensitive glands surrounding the follicles which produce the natural oils to keep the scalp, follicles and hair protected. It may result in the development of scalp pimples.
• Acne is also a common cause of a tender scalp. It may result from infection, ingrown hair, hormonal causes, blocked pores and/or an incorrect diet.
• A fungal infection by ringworm (Tinea capitis) is one of the main causes for a tender, sore scalp. This infection is more commonly seen in children. It is a superficial yeast infection of the scalp, and is caused by mold-like fungi known as dermatophytes. It causes symptoms such as itchy, red patches on the scalp, resulting in hair loss and development of bald areas on the head.
• Your scalp may become tender due to an allergic skin reaction (contact dermatitis). There are two forms of allergic reactions: irritant contact dermatitis and allergic contact dermatitis. Allergic contact dermatitis is a type of hypersensitivity reaction, resulting from the body's immune system. Irritant contact dermatitis is developed due to the direct effect of irritant substances on the skin.
• Certain viral infections such as chickenpox or shingles can also cause a tender scalp.
• Some other causes of scalp tenderness include scalp psoriasis, sunburns, headaches (tightening of muscles in the head region can lead to temporary scalp tenderness), head trauma and brain surgery.

Treatment for a Tender Scalp

• If tenderness of the scalp is due to ringworm, then it can be treated using over-the-counter medications containing clotrimazole or miconazole.
• Sometimes, antifungal skin medications such as ketoconazole are also prescribed.
• It is advised to use chemical-free hair care products. Use of products containing natural ingredients such as wheat germ, macadamia or jojoba oils are recommended. These oils moisturize and nourish the scalp.
• You can also massage the scalp using natural oils such as lavender, chamomile, eucalyptus or avocado oil, which have soothing, healing, antibacterial, as well as antifungal properties.

Basically, the treatment depends upon the underlying cause - treat the cause and the symptoms of tenderness and sensitivity will disappear of their own accord. So, now that you know what the causes, symptoms and treatment options are for a tender scalp, get yourself treated at the earliest to avoid more irritation and complicated skin conditions.