Finding dry scabs on scalp every time you run your hand through your hair can be unpleasant and also perturbing. 

However, there is nothing to worry about here. Scabs and sores on the scalp are more common than you think and can be treated with simple over-the-counter products and treatments. 

If you are tired of the itchy, bumpy feeling, we are here to share some no-fuss tips that you can easily follow. 

Table of contents:

• What are dry scabs on scalp?
• What are the reasons for dry scabs on scalp?
• How can you treat dry scabs on scalp?

What are dry scabs on scalp?

The tiny bumps that you feel on your scalp are known as scabs. These are a sign of irritated skin usually caused by excessive dryness or oiliness. 

Just like your face and body, the skin on your scalp also requires enough moisture and hydration. If it loses this moisture or there is an overproduction of sebum, you may experience some itching, soreness, and in some cases even pain known as scabs. 

There are different types of skin issues that can lead to scabs. Some of these are caused by dryness or oiliness, and others can be due to underlying infections and health conditions. 

Let’s find out what these are: 

• Seborrheic Dermatitis: This is a type of yeast infection that causes yellowish patches on the scalp. 

• Eczema: Eczema is a dry, itchy, red rash that can cover your scalp.   
  

• Eosinophilic Folliculitis: Eosinophilic Folliculitis can cause bumps filled with pus on the scalp due to an infection or inflammation of hair follicles.

• Psoriasis: This is another inflammatory skin condition that can cause grey scabs on the scalp. 

• Lice: Lice can also cause rashes and bumps on your scalp. Lice feed on your skin and cause excessive itching that also leads to irritated skin.  

These are just some of the skin conditions that can cause scabs on your scalp. There can be many more such types. 

The good news is that dry scabs on scalp can be treated in some simple ways, but you should keep in mind not to pick them as that can irritate your skin further.  

What are the reasons for dry scabs on scalp?

Here are some reasons why you might find scabs on your scalp:

• Diet: An imbalanced diet that lacks enough protein and other vital nutrients can cause scabbing and other skin conditions.

• Excessive dryness: If your scalp is excessively dry, you may find it itchy and flaky. Dryness is usually caused by frequent hair washing, hot water showers, harsh shampoos, styling and heat treatment, or even high mineral content in the water. These factors strip the natural oils from your scalp and lead to infections. 
  
  
  

• Excessive oil: If your scalp is too oily, you may experience scratching and itchiness. Grease produced from too much oil can attract bacteria that can further cause infections. 

• Poisoning: Heavy metals like thallium can cause scalp poisoning, hair loss, and scabbing.

• Injuries: An injury or burn can also create dry scabs on scalp.

• Dandruff: Dandruff is a common hair issue that can result in scabs on your scalps. Dandruff can be caused due to extreme dryness and a lack of basic hygiene. Seborrheic Dermatitis can also be a reason for dandruff. 
  

• Lice: Lice are parasites that feed on your scalp. They usually travel from one person to another through close physical contact. 

• Health conditions: The cause of Eosinophilic Folliculitis is not yet known. However, it is usually found in people with HIV and those suffering from AIDS.

• Miscellaneous factors: Psoriasis can be caused by a number of factors. Smoking or constant exposure to smoke, drinking excessive alcohol, and dry weather can trigger psoriasis. It can also be caused by an injury or sunburn. Moreover, psoriasis can affect your scalp as well as other parts of your body.

While common problems like dandruff, lice, oiliness, etc., can be treated at home, extreme skin conditions may require professional help. 

In case of severe symptoms, it may be advised to always consult a certified dermatologist.

Allergies, yeast infections, poisoning, or skin conditions caused by underlying illnesses like AIDs can only be treated by proper medication.

How can you treat dry scabs on scalp?

If your symptoms are mild or you want to maintain good scalp health in general, you can follow some of the tips given below:

• Onion oil massage: A warm oil massage with onion oil can hydrate your scalp and restore its natural moisture balance. Oil massage also stimulates the scalp and helps with hair growth. You can use the Onion Black Seed Hair Oil with Almond, Castor, Jojoba, Olive, and Coconut Oils. Onion is known for its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that can help reduce irritation. The other oils present in this product can nourish your scalp from within and reduce dryness. 

• Tea tree oil treatment: Tea tree oil has antimicrobial properties that can help cleanse your scalp and remove dirt, bacteria, fungi, and yeast. Tea tree oil is also commonly used to treat dandruff. You can add this to your routine to ensure that your scalp is always clean. 

• Castor oil massage: Castor oil helps to moisturize your scalp and reduce sebum protection. It nourishes your scalp and hair without making them too oily.

Apart from this, make sure to wash your hair two to three times a week, depending on how dirty or sweaty your scalp gets. Avoid excessive washing as that strips essential oils and nutrients from your scalp. 

It may also help to follow a nutrition-rich diet with ample protein to promote better hair and scalp health. 

If the water that you use has a high mineral content, try replacing it with clean water. The easiest way to do this is by installing a water softener. 

If you find your scabs worsening despite taking all these measures, get in touch with a dermatologist at the earliest as you may require medication to treat your condition. In such cases, over-the-counter products may not be effective. 

Mildly dry scabs on scalp can be treated with simple hair routines like oiling. WOW Skin Science has a wide range of oils for different hair needs. You can explore them all by visiting the website. 

Sources:

https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/a35426/common-scalp-issues-how-to-treat-them/

https://www.medicinenet.com/why_do_i_have_scabs_on_my_scalp/article.htm

https://www.medicinenet.com/why_do_i_have_scabs_on_my_scalp/article.htm

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14403-seborrheic-dermatitis

https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/dry-scalp-causes