How to soothe scalp irritations?

The scalp is a sensitive area of the body that can sometimes be prone to irritations. These manifest themselves through the emergence of redness, which can sometimes appear as patches of varying thickness and are accompanied by itching. Biologically, an irritation is the result of an inflammatory response by the body following an external assault. Here are the main causes of scalp irritation:

• A genetic predisposition.

  Some individuals have a compromised skin barrier that no longer fulfils its protective function. This is referred to as atopic skin or scalp. Studies have highlighted a link between atopy and a modification of the gene coding for filaggrin, a protein crucial to the integrity of the stratum corneum. People with an atopic scalp are thus less protected from external factors (sun, pollution, certain surfactants present in shampoos...) and are more prone to irritations.

• An allergy.

  Scalp irritations can also be due to an allergy to a specific compound to which the individual has been exposed. This could, for example, be a molecule found in clothing, a cosmetic product, a medication, or encountered in their workplace. In response to contact with this allergen, the person's immune system mobilises certain pro-inflammatory cytokines, leading to inflammation of the area.

• Exposure to the sun.

  The sun has a drying effect on the skin and the scalp , and it alters the hydrolipidic film present on their surface. This film's purpose is to protect the epidermis from external aggressions and to limit its dehydration. When the hydrolipidic film is weakened, the scalp is more prone to irritations.

• The wearing of beanies or motorcycle helmets.

  Repeated friction from a hat or a motorcycle helmet can irritate the scalp. Indeed, these accessories create a warm environment conducive to perspiration. This can cause tingling sensations and irritations. This is largely due to the natural acidity of sweat, which has a pH between 4 and 6. Moreover, it contains sodium chloride, that is, salt, which has a drying effect. However, skin dryness itself is a cause of scalp irritation.