An individual may experience persistent or temporary itching and irritation of the scalp. The origins of these inflammations are varied and, for instance, could be due to the use of unsuitable products. There are several ways to soothe scalp irritations. Let's explore them together.
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How to soothe scalp irritations?
Summary
- Scalp Irritations: What are the Causes?
- Advice No.1: Opt for a gentle shampoo
- Advice No. 2: Use a soothing and moisturising treatment
- Advice No. 3: Massage the scalp with essential oils
- Advice No. 4: Apply cold
Published January 27, 2024,
by
Pauline, Head of Scientific Communication
—
5 min read
Topics:
Scalp Irritations: What are the Causes?
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.
Advice No.1: Opt for a gentle shampoo.
To combat scalp irritations, we recommend opting for a very gentle shampoo, formulated without irritating surfactants or sulfates. Furthermore, shampoos intended for sensitive scalps often contain soothing active ingredients such as bisabolol or allantoin. These products thus have a dual effectiveness and cleanse the scalp while providing relief.
Furthermore, we recommend that you do not wash your hair every dayas this could disrupt the hydrolipidic film of the scalp and increase the risk of irritation. Shampooing every two to three days is sufficient.
Advice No. 2: Use a soothing and moisturising treatment.
There are certain soothing and moisturising cosmetic treatments designed for the scalp. These often come in the form of serums, which are easy to apply and have a light texture so as not to make the scalp greasy. Soothing and moisturising treatments help to alleviate various types of discomfort, such as dryness, itching or redness.
Advice : Don't wait until your scalp is highly irritated before applying a moisturising treatment. For quick relief, we recommend regularly moisturising your scalp.
Advice No. 3: Massage the scalp with essential oils.
To soothe scalp irritations, it is also recommended to massage it with essential oils that have soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. Usually, a few drops are enough to calm the scalp. Do not hesitate to massage to allow the treatment to penetrate. Among the most renowned essential oils for relieving irritations, we find thetea tree essential oil (INCI: Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil), thetrue lavender essential oil (INCI: Lavendula Angustifolia Oil) and therosemary essential oil (INCI: Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil).
Advice No. 4: Apply cold.
Cold is an excellent ally in the case of irritations and itching. Indeed, it has soothing properties and can help to alleviate an irritated scalp. To do this, apply a cold water compress to your scalp for about fifteen minutes. You can also use ice cubes wrapped in a clean cloth. However, be careful not to apply the ice cubes directly to your scalp, as this could further irritate it.
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