Scalp Itch: Incidence of Related Dermatological Conditions,
Hair Care and Styling Practices among Adults with Scalp Itch
Roberta C. Bloom, Stephen C. Pennisi, Ph.D. and James J. Leyden*, MD

Combe Incorporated, White Plains, NY
* Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Department of Dermatology, Philadelphia, PA

Introduction

Scalp itch is a common problem affecting approximately twenty percent of the population. Scalp itch can been attributed to a myriad of etiologies. These include dermatological disorders such as psoriasis, eczema, xerosis, atopy or seborrheic dermatitis. In addition, the itching may be caused or exacerbated by inducing scalp dryness with blow-drying or heat styling of hair, use of harsh shampoos, too frequent shampooing, or excessive ultraviolet light exposure. Tension on the scalp due to certain hairstyles or occlusion due to wearing a hat or some form of artificial hair also may contribute to scalp itch.

Little is known about the frequency of the various skin conditions among those with scalp itch. In addition, very limited information is available regarding the frequency of some of the other factors that may be contributing to scalp itch. Furthermore, how often scalp itch occurs, its intensity, and seasonality are not well known. The purpose of this study was to gain better understanding of scalp itch and factors that may influence it.

Objective

This study was conducted with a population of adults who experience scalp itch to:

1. determine the incidence of various skin conditions related to scalp itch,
2. determine the incidence of practices that may contribute to scalp itch,
3. gain a better understanding of the seasonality, frequency and intensity of scalp itch.

Materials & Method

To gather data on scalp itch, an Internet survey company was contracted to conduct a survey using their database of potential scalp itch sufferers within the United States. Participants were selected to closely match the demographics of the U.S. population. Thirty-five questions regarding skin conditions, scalp conditions, hair grooming and styling practices, shampooing frequency, scalp UV exposure, and scalp itch frequency and intensity were completed by 2811 adults. Of those, 869 experienced scalp itch at least once a month and were designated ‘scalp itchers’ for this study. Fifty-two percent of this population was male and forty-eight percent was female. Data analysis was performed with SPSS Statistical Software (Chicago, IL).

A series of atopic related questions were asked to help classify responders as atopic, atopic background, or non-atopic. Using responses, atopics were defined as those with a personal history of allergies that require prescription medication and/or a personal history of asthma. The atopic background group was defined as those having a personal history or blood relative with a history of allergies and/or asthma, and/or a personal history of eczema. Those without a personal or family history of allergies and/or asthma and without a history of eczema were classified as non-atopics.

Skin Conditions and Scalp Conditions Related to Scalp Itch

Practices that May Contribute to or Exacerbate Scalp Itch

Understanding Scalp Itch