The scalp protects the caput, and the hair helps conserve warmth. Yet, all the hair follicles on the scalp brand information technology vulnerable to infections and other problems that cause pain.

Some people may experience pain in the expanse when the hair moves. In other cases, the pain may besides persist at other times.

There are many possible handling options for a painful scalp, and they tend to depend on the cause. Home remedies are sometimes enough to treat the problem. In other cases, however, a trip to the doctor may be necessary.

This article will hash out the causes and treatments associated with a painful scalp that occurs when the hair moves.

A woman with painful scalp when the hair moves touches her head. Share on Pinterest
A hairstyle or an underlying medical condition may cause pain in the scalp.

A painful scalp is common. In fact, ane 2012 article estimated that 44% of people in France experience scalp sensitivity.

Causes of a painful scalp when the hair moves range from hairstyling choices to underlying health conditions. Even rearranging the hair tin can crusade some pain in the scalp.

Some conditions that may lead to scalp pain include:

Traction baldness

Traction alopecia is a type of hair loss that occurs due to wearing the hair pulled tightly back. For example, people who wear braids, ponytails, cornrows, or weaves are at risk of traction alopecia.

The status is particularly mutual in African American women and people who wear tight hairstyles for work or leisure activities, such as ballet dancers.

Traction alopecia causes tenderness and stinging of the scalp.

Scalp psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes new skin cells to grow before the torso can shed the sometime ones. The new cells build up on the peel, causing patches.

These patches tin occur anywhere on the body. They develop on the scalp in around fifty% of people with psoriasis, according to the American University of Dermatology.

Scalp psoriasis causes discolored patches, scales, or flaking on the scalp. The patches are very itchy and can become sore. Scratching the patches can worsen them, cause haemorrhage, or lead to hair loss.

Seborrheic dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a type of eczema that tends to develop in areas of oily skin. The scalp is oily due to the hair follicles, which makes it vulnerable to seborrheic dermatitis.

This condition is common in adults anile 30–lx.

Folliculitis

Folliculitis is usually the outcome of bacteria, yeast, or dust mites. When a person has folliculitis, their hair follicles become inflamed.

This causes small, itchy, and discolored bumps to develop over the peel. These bumps can go crusty and painful.

Allodynia

Allodynia is a condition that causes abnormal pain reactions, such as a sense of discomfort when the hair moves.

Some health conditions tin crusade allodynia, including fibromyalgia, trigeminal neuralgia, and diabetic neuropathy.

Other causes

Some other possible causes of scalp pain when the hair moves include:

  • a reaction to shampoos, hair conditioners, or other hair products
  • estrus
  • styling tools, such as hairbrushes
  • stress

In general, the symptoms of scalp problems include:

  • itching
  • pain
  • burning
  • prickling
  • soreness
  • tingling

Some conditions that cause a painful scalp also crusade other symptoms, such as:

  • patchy pilus loss
  • discolored patches
  • flaking
  • greasy, white or yellow scales on the scalp
  • small, itchy bumps

The central to reducing scalp discomfort is identifying what is causing it. This is sometimes a procedure of trial and error.

When sure hairstyles are causing scalp discomfort, the first step should involve irresolute the hairstyle. For example, this could be past freeing the hair from tight, pulling hairstyles, such every bit tight buns or braids.

If a person has scalp psoriasis, they may wish to try the post-obit treatment options:

  • applying topical lotions
  • trying medicated shampoos
  • using scale softeners
  • taking biologics

For seborrheic dermatitis, treatment can include:

  • trying over-the-counter (OTC) dandruff shampoo
  • using a prescription antifungal cream or shampoo
  • gently cleansing the surface area with a 2% zinc production
  • moisturizing the scalp

Possible treatments for scalp folliculitis include:

  • frequently washing with a regular or antifungal shampoo
  • applying topical antibiotics or steroids
  • taking antihistamines
  • taking acne medications

Making lifestyle changes tin likewise aid. For example, eating a balanced nutrition, regularly exercising, and getting enough sleep are all good options.

For many people, changing hair products or practices can help reduce scalp discomfort. Trying OTC products can also be useful for scalp pain when the hair moves.

If there is no improvement after a few weeks of these treatments, it may be worth seeing a doc.

Hair loss could indicate an underlying condition, such every bit traction alopecia or scalp psoriasis. A person may wish to encounter a doc to place the crusade and notice advisable treatment.

There are many possible causes of a painful scalp when the hair moves. Finding the most effective treatment depends on what is causing the discomfort.

Several conditions, such every bit psoriasis, tin can cause a painful scalp. These conditions usually require medical treatment. In other cases, it may be certain hairstyles causing the discomfort. These are modifiable at home.

People with a sensitive scalp should carefully monitor their status and pilus care practices. If dwelling house remedies do not help, a doctor tin can identify the cause and suggest some possible treatment options.