What to check
- How long since your last shampoo: a longer stretch than usual often itches.
- Flakes: small and dry, larger and oily, or like dried gel.
- Any new product, especially one used on the scalp.
- Styles that pull: if braids or extensions hurt, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) says they are too tight.
- Swimming, sweat and hard water left on the scalp.
What to change next
Shampoo the scalp properly, massaging with fingertips and rinsing thoroughly; if it feels coated, clarify once. Pause any new scalp product. Keep conditioner and creams off the scalp. If the flakes look like dandruff, see what the AAD suggests.
When to see a dermatologist
See a board-certified dermatologist for itching that lasts, sores, bumps, red scaly patches, or hair loss along with the itch. These can come from conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis that wash-day changes won’t fix.
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