When you wake up and check your reflection, you realize the flakes and patches have returned. You can't stop scratching your scalp, and you have to be extra careful when doing your hair for the day.
Hairline or scalp eczema can present in various ways. Like other forms, it can cause inflammation, discomfort, and itch—but because of your hair, it's often trickier to treat and care for.
Here's what to know about hairline and scalp eczema, including whether or not patches will be effective.
If your scalp is flaking but can't tell if it's mild irritation or something more, take the Flare Quiz to check your stage in 60 seconds.
What Causes Scalp Eczema?
According to the National Eczema Association, scalp and hairline eczema typically falls into three types: contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, and seborrheic dermatitis. The former is triggered by irritants and allergens that are found in detergents, shampoos, hair dyes, and fragrances. Atopic dermatitis is caused by an overactive immune system and a weakened skin barrier. Seborrheic dermatitis appears in areas rich in oil-producing glands, which is why it's more common on the scalp. All types can produce inflammation, itchiness, and flaking, and redness. It may appear as dandruff for milder cases and shedding or crusting for more severe flares.
How to Support Scalp Eczema
Just like with an eczema-friendly skincare routine, hairline and scalp eczema benefits from simple, gentle products with no harsh ingredients, chemicals, or fragrance. You can try medicated or anti-dandruff shampoos to reduce flaking and irritation: Look for ingredients like ketoconazole or pyrithione zinc. It's also recommended to avoid washing your hair too often so you don't dry it out. Every 2-3 days is a good starting point, but find a schedule that works for you.
Also like with treating eczema anywhere else, avoiding triggers, reducing stress, and getting enough sleep, is helpful in not overwhelming the barrier.
Using Eczema Patches on Your Hairline
As you might assume, you can't effectively use eczema patches on your scalp because they won't stick. It's possible to use them on your hairline if you pull your hair back and out of the way and make sure the patch is adhering to your skin. You can also trim it to make it thinner.
Surge is made of hydrocolloid to retain moisture and protect your Active Flare from scratching and external irritants.
FAQs
What causes scalp eczema?
The most common types of scalp eczema are contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, and seborrheic dermatitis, each of which is triggered by different things. These include: allergens like certain shampoos and hair dyes, an overactive immune system, excess oil produced by glands, stress, cold and dry weather, and more.
How can you tell scalp eczema from dandruff?
Milder flares may look like dandruff because they share symptoms of itching, dryness, and flaking. But scalp eczema is more than a dry scalp, as it's caused by particular triggers and requires more support than simple hydration.
What kind of shampoo is best for scalp eczema?
Gentle, fragrance-free formulas are most effective for scalp eczema. You can also use medicated shampoos with ingredients safe for sensitive skin.
How often should you wash your hair if you have scalp eczema?
This varies by person, but it's generally recommended to not wash your hair every day so you don't strip the scalp of its natural oils and dry it out. Find a wash schedule that works for you.