Sensitive scalp: Symptoms, causes and solutions

A sensitive scalp can cause discomfort and be distracting during daily routine. Around 60% of women and 40% of men have sensitive scalps, and the reasons for this can vary greatly. If skin is severely sensitive, it may mean that the scalp is hyperreactive or hypersensitive – and this can be alleviated with the proper care.

SHAMPOO is one of the main causes of scalp sensitivity for many people. The harsh cleansers or surfactants in many shampoos can wash away the scalp’s acid mantle – the natural acidity that protects your skin – leaving it susceptible to dryness and irritation.

What are microinflammations? They’re mild inflammations of the skin. They’re so mild, in fact, that even clinical testing won’t pick them up. But if we study skin tissue encountering  microinflammations, we can detect the presence of inflammatory immune cells – in other words, the skin is responding to irritation with inflammation and thereby attempting to repair  itself. If these skin cells are then subjected to further irritation, the skin can flip into a “true” inflammatory response.

How are they related to scalp conditions? There’s growing evidence that microinflammations of the scalp are involved in most common scalp disorders - from thinning hair and dandruff, to scalp dryness, itchiness and sensitivity.

If you experience sudden hair loss or brittle hair, you may have an underlying health problem such as thyroid disease, iron deficiency, or an autoimmune disease. Some medications can also cause hair loss. Contact a doctor if you are at all concerned.