How to Treat Eczema on Scalp

October 16, 2017

You’ve been searching all over the place for eczema remedies. Your child continues to be frustrated with the red, inflamed, itchy patches that occur during flare-ups. More specifically, he or she struggles with scalp eczema. While you may have already tried a number of things, let’s take a step back for a minute. In this blog post, we will dive into the symptoms of scalp eczema, causes of triggers, as well as potential treatment options.

Scalp Eczema Symptoms

This condition is characterized by skin patches that may be:

• Red and scaly
• Flaky, greasy, or waxy
• Itchy
• Oozing or have “weeping” lesions
• Producing blisters
• Causing a discharge from the ear if the condition continues from the scalp into the ear canal
• Causing changes in skin color after healing

Causes of Scalp Eczema

Everyday Health explains that scalp eczema is usually tied back to the overproduction of sebum. What’s sebum you may be wondering? Well, it’s the natural oil secreted by sebaceous glands in the scalp. Interestingly, the greasy scales that often result may stimulate the overgrowth of a skin fungus called Malassezia. Though this fungus is normal, it may only worsen the symptoms of dandruff. Today, skin care experts are unable to pinpoint the actual triggers of scalp irritation. It’s important to note that weather, stress, and family history can all play a role. That said, here are some risk factors and causes for scalp eczema:

• Greasy hair or skin
• Abnormally dry skin
• Other skin conditions such as psoriasis, rosacea, or acne
• Allergies or a family history of them such as hay fever, asthma, and eczema
• Heavy sweating
• Exposure to an allergen or irritant

Scalp Eczema Treatments

As we’ve said in previous posts, there is no cure yet for eczema. Still, with a few lifestyle changes here and there, you can effectively manage your child’s scalp eczema. First, irritation and itchy scalp can typically be treated with a medicated dandruff shampoo. A few things here: The chemical ingredients in these shampoos can help ease inflammation and deal away with flaky, scaly skin. As you make your selection, opt for a shampoo that has zinc pyrithione, salicylic acid, and ketoconazole. Have your child get in the habit of using this shampoo two or three times a week.

Secondly, you will want to consider topical creams, ointments, and sprays. Don’t just purchase as though as some may only worsen the irritation. Look for products made from coal tar or corticosteroids. Both help calm the irritation and stop the flaking. As Everyday Health mentions, your child should do whatever they can to:

• Avoid exposure to suspected irritants and allergens
• Clean their scalp thoroughly but to avoid drying it out by using only a quarter-sized dollop of a gentle shampoo and warm water
• Keep stress to a minimum
• Shampoo their hair after doing any sort of high-intensity exercise, as perspiration can be a trigger

The Eczema Itch-Scratch Cycle

Regardless of where it appears, eczema tends to be very itchy. There are some cases where the itch becomes so bad that children scratch it until it bleeds. Not surprisingly, this makes symptoms even worse. You may notice that your child is distracted by daily activities and not as focused on the itch until it’s time for bed. Unfortunately, this is where many children with eczema struggle most. When the itch becomes intense, it can be anything but easy for a child to sleep. In turn, this causes a domino effect. Keep in mind that sleep pattern disruption leads to additional stress and more intense flare-ups. Parents know that, eventually, their child’s eczema impacts the entire family.

At Soothems, we’ve developed therapeutic clothing for eczema that keeps your child comfortable. Whether they’re struggling with scalp eczema, face eczema, or another sensitive skin condition, our garments will help alleviate the irritation. Here’s how it works. Soothems are made from a proprietary smart fabric called TEWLTect, a blend of high-performance polymer fibers enhanced with Chitosan and Zinc Oxid. You can feel at ease knowing that TEWLTect provides a positive, relaxing effect when the skin naturally releases moisture. Our smart fabric can be used as an occlusive barrier, wet or dry, and with or without emollients/topical steroids.

We invite you to check out our Eczema Therapy Relief Skull Cap for toddlers. This snug fit skull cap covers the forehead and ears of your child. Not to mention, the fabric protects moisture levels on the skin and can significantly reduce itching. The skull cap is also super soft, bacteria controlling, lightweight, and thermoregulating. You don’t have to worry about maintenance that’s involved with this product, either, as the cap is machine washable. Simply lay flat to dry and it’s ready to be worn again!

Don’t let your child’s scalp eczema get the best of them any longer. Instead, see what Soothems has to offer, including eczema suits, eczema sleeves, eczema bottoms, and eczema sleepwear.

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