Yes, contact dermatitis can affect the scalp and cause itching, redness, and flaking of the skin. Common triggers include hair products, metal (such as in hair accessories), and certain types of medication.
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Yes, contact dermatitis can affect the scalp and cause itching, redness, and flaking of the skin. Common triggers include hair products, metal (such as in hair accessories), and certain types of medication. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, “contact dermatitis is a type of skin inflammation that occurs when substances touching the skin cause irritation or an allergic reaction.”
Contact dermatitis on the scalp can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Hair products: shampoos, conditioners, sprays, gels, and other hair products can contain chemicals such as fragrances, preservatives, and dyes that can irritate the scalp.
- Metal: hair accessories such as clips, hairpins, and headbands can contain nickel, which is a common allergen that can cause an allergic reaction on the scalp.
- Medications: some medications, such as topical steroids, antibiotics, and antifungal treatments, can cause an allergic reaction on the scalp.
The symptoms of contact dermatitis on the scalp can include itching, redness, flaking, and sometimes even hair loss. Treatment typically involves identifying and avoiding the trigger, as well as using medicated shampoos and topical creams to ease inflammation and irritation.
As the scalp is a part of the skin, any substance that irritates the skin can cause contact dermatitis on the scalp. Therefore, it is important to be aware of any new products or medication one uses and see a dermatologist if scalp irritation persists.
In the words of Dr. Joshua Zeichner, Director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City: “The scalp is an extension of the skin on your face, and like the skin on your face, it can be sensitive and reactive to certain ingredients and environmental factors. If you develop an itchy, red, or flaky scalp, it is important to see a board-certified dermatologist to identify the underlying cause and appropriate treatment plan.”
Here is a table summarizing some common triggers of contact dermatitis on the scalp:
| Trigger | Example |
|---|---|
| Hair products | Shampoos, conditioners, hair sprays, gels |
| Metal | Hair clips, hairpins, headbands |
| Medications | Topical steroids, antibiotics, |
| antifungal treatments | |
| Fragrances and preservatives | in hair products |
See a related video
The video “Eczema Exposed: 8 Types You Need to Know” provides an overview of the characteristics, symptoms, and treatment options for various types of eczema. The eight types discussed include atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, neurodermatitis, numular eczema, stasis dermatitis, and hand eczema. Treatment options vary and can include medication, moisturizers, trigger avoidance, and leg elevation for better blood flow. Atopic dermatitis is the most common type, typically seen in children as dry, itchy, and red patches.
There are alternative points of view
Allergic contact dermatitis of the scalp is not common and is most frequently caused by hair dyes or topical drugs.
You will most likely be intrigued
Can contact dermatitis spread to scalp?
In reply to that: You can experience contact dermatitis anywhere that your skin came into contact with an allergen or irritant. The most common places that people experience symptoms include: Face, neck and scalp.
What does contact dermatitis look like on scalp?
As an answer to this: An itchy rash. Leathery patches that are darker than usual (hyperpigmented), typically on brown or Black skin. Dry, cracked, scaly skin, typically on white skin. Bumps and blisters, sometimes with oozing and crusting.
How do you treat contact dermatitis on the scalp?
The answer is: Put on the itchy area 1% hydrocortisone cream or ointment (Cortizone 10, others). This is a nonprescription product that you can buy at a drugstore. Use it 1 to 2 times a day for a few days. Or try calamine lotion.
Can dermatitis affect the scalp?
The response is: Seborrheic (seb-o-REE-ik) dermatitis is a common skin condition that mainly affects your scalp. It causes scaly patches, inflamed skin and stubborn dandruff.
What are the symptoms of contact dermatitis?
In reply to that: Other symptoms include dry skin, cracking, burning, and flaking. Contact dermatitis can come on quickly, in the case of acute contact dermatitis, or develop slowly and be more long-lasting, as in chronic contact dermatitis. There are two main types of contact dermatitis: irritant contact dermatitis and allergic contact dermatitis.
Can atopic dermatitis affect your scalp?
Atopic dermatitis—aka eczema —can make your skin feel dry, red, and itchy. Unfortunately, your scalp isn’t immune to the effects of this condition, even though it’s covered in hair. 1 But atopic dermatitis isn’t the only skin condition that can affect your scalp. Other conditions include psoriasis and dandruff.
What causes scalp eczema?
As a response to this: In contact dermatitis, the symptoms on your skin occur because of a reaction to an allergen or irritant. Risk factors and triggers for your scalp eczema will depend on the type of dermatitis causing your symptoms. Risk factors increase your likelihood of developing a certain type of dermatitis.
What are the signs of Scalp Dermatitis?
As an answer to this: Signs of the skin inflammation The condition can lead to flakiness, redness, dandruff and other scalp buildup — and sometimes it’s sign of other conditions. Flaky scalp, itchiness and painful patches can all be signs of scalp dermatitis, an inflammation of the scalp that can have as many causes as it does symptoms.
Can atopic dermatitis affect your scalp?
Atopic dermatitis—aka eczema —can make your skin feel dry, red, and itchy. Unfortunately, your scalp isn’t immune to the effects of this condition, even though it’s covered in hair. 1 But atopic dermatitis isn’t the only skin condition that can affect your scalp. Other conditions include psoriasis and dandruff.
Is contact dermatitis serious?
In reply to that: Contact dermatitis is a red, itchy skin condition that develops as a reaction to a chemical or other substance. This condition is usually not serious, but can be uncomfortable. Treatment typically depends on what caused the dermatitis. Have you ever used a new type of skin care product or detergent, only to have your skin become red and irritated?
What are the signs of Scalp Dermatitis?
Answer will be: Signs of the skin inflammation The condition can lead to flakiness, redness, dandruff and other scalp buildup — and sometimes it’s sign of other conditions. Flaky scalp, itchiness and painful patches can all be signs of scalp dermatitis, an inflammation of the scalp that can have as many causes as it does symptoms.
How do you know if you have contact dermatitis?
As a response to this: Signs and symptoms of contact dermatitis vary widely and may include: An itchy rash Leathery patches that are darker than usual (hyperpigmented), typically on brown or Black skin Dry, cracked, scaly skin, typically on white skin Bumps and blisters, sometimes with oozing and crusting Swelling, burning or tenderness When to see a doctor