By Laura Dolgy (see bio below)
Are you experiencing a dry, itchy or oozing scalp and not sure why or what it is? It may be scalp eczema, which can be both irritating and embarrassing, but there are a variety of treatments that can be used to diminish the appearance of eczema on scalp, as well as heal it.
This week we’re looking at the best natural scalp eczema treatment options, as well as a few other general recommendations to heal your eczema immediately!
Please keep in mind that although these treatments can relieve eczema, we are in no way medical professionals. If you’re experiencing severe eczema symptoms like an infection, it is best to seek medical advice immediately.
What are the types of eczema on scalp?
Greasy Scalp
One form of scalp eczema, is a greasy, waxy scalp that doesn’t seem to vanish simply by washing out hair. The waxy, non-scaly residue can first appear in a small patch and then develop around the entire head, causing severely greasy hair and a greasy scalp.
Although this type of eczema is similar to seborrheic dermatitis, redness and scales are not present.
To learn more about this type of scalp eczema, check out our founder’s blog post on her own greasy scalp eczema: Waxy, Greasy Hair After Shower: A Surprising Form of Dermatitis.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
The most common form of scalp eczema is seborrheic dermatitis. This form of eczema on scalp, generally seen in adults, is caused by a fungus. Eventually, this fungus grows and spreads, which in turn causes an oily, flaky scalp that can be uncomfortable or painful.
Although not proven, this condition might be linked to an abnormality of oil glands or hair follicles. It might also be caused by the production of hormones, fatigue, heavy drinking, stress and more.
To learn more about seborrheic dermatitis and how to manage it, make sure to check out our blog post: 4 Ways to Relieve Seborrheic Dermatitis.
Cradle Cap
Another form of scalp eczema, which is seen in newborns and infants is cradle cap. Cradle cap is actually a form of seborrheic dermatitis, yet it usually disappears after three months, while seborrheic dermatitis can be long term and often in adults.
Cradle cap in babies usually appears as a yellowish, patchy, greasy and often crusty skin rash. Although it can be unsightly, cradle cap is usually not uncomfortable or painful (unlike seborrheic dermatitis in adults).
If your little one is suffering from cradle cap, make sure to take a look at our blog post: The Most Natural Cradle Cap Treatments (and Seborrheic Dermatitis).
How do you treat scalp eczema?
Although there is no found cure for scalp eczema, there are a variety of natural scalp eczema treatments that can be used on both little ones and adults. Take a look at our recommendations below and start healing naturally today!
Scalp Oil
To keep scalp skin hydrated and moisturized, opting for a scalp oil is a great choice! If your scalp is already greasy, we recommend skipping scalp oils and instead looking for one that treats greasy flakes and scales. Hint, check below for some ideas.
If your scalp tends to be dry, make sure to check out this SD Freedom Scalp Oil – For Dry Skin. Not only is this oil nourishing and moisturizing, but it includes Chinese herbs that are designed to heal dry scalps. This product can be used on both adults and little ones suffering from cradle cap, as its completely natural and GMO free. Also – bonus: it can be used on pets!
Scalp Tincture
If you or your little one is experiencing a greasy scalp, then make sure to check out this SD Freedom Scalp Tincture – For Greasy Skin. This tincture is specifically designed for those with greasier flakes and scales on the scalp that might crust, blister, or ooze with yellow and golden coloring. This scalp treatment also contains apple cider vinegar, which is a common home remedy in scalp eczema treatment.
Similarly to the oil, this product is natural, GMO free and safe to use on adults, infants and pets!
Natural Shampoo
Is your shampoo making your scalp eczema even worse?
Many shampoos on the market today contain ingredients that can be harsh on scalp eczema and can actually make things worse. By switching to a natural shampoo, like this Emily Skin Soothers Body Wash, the chance for irritation is greatly diminished and the eczema can actually heal.
We know what you’re thinking – body wash?! This liquid soap actually doubles as a shampoo which can work on seborrheic dermatitis and other forms of scalp eczema. Not only is it moisturizing, but it is extremely gentle and will not strip skin like many other shampoos.
Another wonderful shampoo (which is specifically made for seborrheic dermatitis) is this Wild Naturals Eczema Psoriasis Shampoo and Conditioner. It is both natural and contains Manuka honey which is anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory.
Natural Moisturizer
After shampooing your hair and scalp, you’ll want to make sure the area is well moisturized. The above mentioned scalp eczema tincture and oil work well, but if you’re looking to spot treat, make sure to check out this Organic Manuka Skin Soothing Cream. Not only is this cream nourishing and moisturizing, but it also contains Manuka oil and honey which are both anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory.
Cradle Cap Hat
Lastly, if your little one is suffering from severe cradle cap and can’t stop itching their scalp, make sure to check out this GoumiHat for infants 3-6 months old. Not only will this protect your little one’s scalp, but you can also use it for both dry and wet wrap therapy.
More advice on treating scalp eczema
Seborrheic dermatitis and other forms of scalp eczema can be difficult to treat, but if you are not improving with the suggested products above, then maybe it’s time to start healing from within.
Many eczema sufferers have found relief by removing certain foods that trigger their eczema. This can be done with a process known as an elimination diet. An elimination diet is essentially removing certain foods from your diet for a specific time period and then reintroducing them slowly to determine which foods are causing a reaction. To learn more about its success and how to get started, make sure to check out our blog post: Our Eczema Elimination Diet Success (How You Can Do it Too!).
Do you suffer from eczema on your scalp? Let us know how you treat it in the comment section below!
Bio: Laura is a contributor and content developer for It’s An Itchy Little World. She is in no way a medical professional. Her comments, suggestions, and reflections are not intended to replace any medical advice. Always seek the help of a medical professional before undertaking any diet or lifestyle changes. Please see It’s An Itchy Little World’s disclaimer for information about affiliate links and more.
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