Serious Scalp Itch

We may find ourselves scratching our heads for various reasons- figuring out a difficult math problem, trying to remember that last item we need at the grocery store or even when we have a good idea. Yet, health experts say it isn't such a good idea to scratch when you suffer from scalp itch, which tends to only intensify the problem, since the problem may be more than general scalp itch or dandruff.

Yet, those who suffer from deep scalp itch may be experiencing a problem more serious than dandruff. If you find yourself encountering intense or severe scalp itch, the problem may be seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis. These inflammatory skin conditions, while not life-threatening, can make daily life quite uncomfortable.

Seborrheic dermatitis can be found anywhere on the body, but is often limited to the face and scalp areas, where sebaceous (oil) glands are prevalent. This condition of severe itching, dryness and scaliness results when these oil glands become clogged and inflamed. The cause of the recurring condition is unknown. Scratching the area can actually worsen the problem.

Psoriasis is a skin condition that can be found anywhere on the body. Scientists believe it is a result of a gene that is passed down through families. In a person with normal skin, new cells replace old cells of the stratum corneum (outer layer of skin) every 28 days, as dead skin cells naturally slough off. Those with psoriasis can have new cells coming to the surface approximately every four days. This hyper-proliferation of cells causes them to bunch up at the surface, taking on the form of large, thick, white scales and sheets of skin that actually slough off in these large sheets. The bunching of the skin cells at the surface of the skin can lead to intense itching which, again, can be exacerbated by scratching. The scalp is an area where psoriasis often occurs.

In the case of these conditions, some dandruff shampoos will not help the situation, or they may provide only very temporary relief. The best thing for a person to do is try an over-the-counter scalp medication, such as Maximum Strength Scalpicin to relieve the deep scalp itch associated with these conditions. Chronic scalp conditions that do not respond to over-the-counter medication should be brought to the attention of a physician.