Inflamed scalps can be caused by several different things. It can be as a result of infection, an allergic reaction or mechanical pressure applied to the scalp. Infections are caused by bacteria the most common scalp condition being dandruff. Infections can also be as a result of a dirty scalp that is deprived of proper ventilation. This can occur when wigs are worn for extended periods of time. If the wig base is made of a material that doesn’t allow air to reach the scalp, it can have the same effect as wearing a hat for a long period of time. The scalp gets hot and sweaty. Factor in irregular washing and the dirty, sweaty and hot scalp becomes a breeding ground for bacteria.

Allergic reactions can occur when the scalp comes into contact with a material it is allergic to. Hair pieces and wigs are often made from synthetic materials. Whilst some people are able to wear these hair pieces without any side effects or reactions, others aren’t so lucky. The synthetic material may trigger an allergic reaction which may cause a breakout of rashes, or make the scalp itchy, sensitive and inflamed.

Mechanical pressure only occurs as a result of the way the hair is either handled or styled. Tight hairstyles such as braids, weave hair extensions and tight ponytails exert a mechanical pressure on the hair follicles and scalp. The pulling action required to secure these hairstyles in place can cause welts to form on the scalp causing painful inflammation.

An inflamed scalp is nature’s way of indicating the scalp is stressed, unhealthy or unhappy. Inflammation is a primary defense system of the scalp against infectious bacteria, physical trauma or injury. Inflamed scalps are often sore, itchy and very uncomfortable. If they become a regular occurrence, they can interfere with healthy hair growth, leading to thinning hair and hair loss.

Ways to soothe an inflamed scalp

Inflammation can often be treated with over the counter medications in the form of tonics, shampoos and lotions. Apart from commercially available solutions, natural methods to soothe scalp inflammation also exist. It is best to find a solution based on the cause of inflammation.

When inflammation is caused by mechanical pressure, such as pulling, then the obvious solution is the pulling action has to be stopped. Even when the pulling action has been stopped, the scalp may remain sore for a while as it heals itself. A great natural solution to soothe it in this case would be a chamomile infusion. Chamomile can be purchased from a reputable herbalist or health food store and infused in hot water for a minimum of 15 minutes. Allow to cool before applying it. The scalp should be washed with a gentle shampoo – even baby shampoo would do, and then rinsed thoroughly before the Chamomile infusion is poured over the scalp. Allow to stand for five minutes before finishing with a cool rinse.

If the scalp is infected, then a medicated shampoo suitable for the particular infection is recommended. For most itchy scalp conditions such as dandruff, an anti-fungal shampoo such as Nizoral shampoo is recommended. Nizoral contains Ketoconazole which is an anti-fungal drug also available as a cream and oral tablet.

Inflamed scalps should never be ignored or taken for granted. While the scalp is fighting the infection or trying to protect itself from the physical trauma or injury, vital nutrients are diverted from hair follicles and used instead to try and heal the scalp. This reduction of nutrient availability may lead to hair loss or weak and limp hair.

Care should be taken to keep the scalp clean to prevent reinfection. If your hair starts falling out or becomes limp and weak, Tricomin follicle hair spray can be used daily. Tricomin follicle spray strengthens and nourishes the hair follicles using a copper peptides compound leading to thicker and healthier hair growth. If hair is thinning severely, following a suitable hair routine is highly advised.

This is an article by Danielle McLoughlin, who writes more about Traction Alopecia and thinning hair treatments at her website – www.tractionalopeciatreatments.com. You can download her free ebook to learn how to repair damaged hair follicles and boost healthy hair growth.

This is an article by Danielle McLoughlin, who writes more about Traction Alopecia and thinning hair treatments at her website – http://www.tractionalopeciatreatments.com.

Author Bio: This is an article by Danielle McLoughlin, who writes more about Traction Alopecia and thinning hair treatments at her website – www.tractionalopeciatreatments.com. You can download her free ebook to learn how to repair damaged hair follicles and boost healthy hair growth.

Category: Medicines and Remedies
Keywords: traction alopecia treatment, traction alopecia, hair loss, inflamed scalp, damaged hair follicles