Scabs and sores on the scalp can be itchy and unpleasant. Scalp scabs are usually flaky, itchy, and sensitive to the touch. They are often harmless and clear up on their own. Scratching generally makes them worse and increases your chances of infection. Having scabs on your scalp is not only incredibly painful, but also downright embarrassing. We have the top causes and home remedies to heal scabs on scalp.
Potential Causes
- Dry skin
- Psoriasis
- Contact Dermatitis
- Dandruff
- Shingles
- Minor injury
- Infected scalp injury
- Acne
How to Heal Scabs on Scalp
Warm Compress
Dip a wash cloth in hot water and squeeze out excess water. Wrap around head and leave for 10 to 15 minutes. The will help the heat and steam soften the scabs without damaging the scalp. Comb your hair to get rid of any loose scabs.
Aloe Vera Gel
The gentle and soothing nature of aloe vera eases pain and itchiness, while also protecting the scabs from getting infected. Plus, it works as a deep conditioner to moisturize a dry scalp.
Lemon Juice
The antibacterial and astringent components of fresh lemon juice will eliminate any scabs. Mix warm oil and 10 to 15 drops of the juice for a treatment solution. Massage it into the scalp and leave it on for 30 minutes before washing it out.
Neem Leaves
Neem, is highly effective for healing scabs on scalp. It has antibacterial and antifungal properties that help prevent infection and accelerate healing. Boil 10-15 neem leaves in 2 cup of water. Let it cool then rinse scalp with leftover water.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar can heal scabs on scalp. It has powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help fight many of the causes of this problem. Plus, it balances the pH level of the scalp, which can help relieve itching and dryness. Apply it directly on your scalp and use a fine-tooth comb to remove scabs before washing your hair. Use a conditioner to avoid dryness. Repeat treatment several times weekly.
Oatmeal
Alleviate the itch and treat any inflammation with an oatmeal treatment. Combine uncooked oatmeal with water and apply the paste all over the scalp. Rinse it after 10 minutes and repeat daily.
Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil can also reduce the symptoms of scalp scabs and promote healing. Its moisturizing nature helps restore the balance of natural oils on your scalp, which is essential to fight dry scalp and scabs.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil, with its powerful natural antifungal, anti-inflammation and antibacterial properties, can be used to treat itchiness associated with scalp scabs. It also cleanses, removes infectious organisms and revitalizes the scalp.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is an excellent natural treatment for psoriasis. Apply two tablespoons of the oil directly on your scalp and massage for several minutes. Leave it on for 10 minutes, or overnight for extreme cases of scalp scabs, before washing the oil out. Comb your hair to remove scabs gently.
Coconut Oil
To reduce itchiness and dry scalp, a warm coconut oil massage is very effective. It helps keep your scalp moisturized. Hence, it is an effective way to treat scalp scabs.
Scalp Mask
To help prevent dry scalp scabs and itchiness, as well as to maintain scalp moisture, treat your scalp and hair to a weekly mask treatment. Use a few beaten eggs or fresh aloe vera gel straight from the plant and apply it all over your scalp.
While these home remedies may be effective methods for treating scalp itch, it’s recommended that you speak with your dermatologist before pursuing any form of home remedy. After all, an allergic reaction to oils could lead to contact dermatitis, a condition that causes scalp scabs all on its own.
Finally, the number one thing you can do is stop scratching your scalp. Further irritation from touching or picking at the affected area will only serve to prevent healing.