The term itchy flaky scalp is a general term used by the sufferer of a scalp problem that applies to conditions such as Eczema, Psoriasis, Dandruff, etc.

An itchy scalp may simply be due to lack of washing the hair, we recommend daily. It may also be caused by a reaction to hair colour; we advise that a patch test is always carried out 24 hours before your colour (especially if it is your visit time or a period has elapsed since your last tint).

Otherwise, the causes of irritation maybe some of the following scalp conditions:

• Psoriasis
• Dandruff
• Eczema / Dermatitis
• Seborrhoeic Eczema / Dermatitis
• Neuro Eczema / Dermatitis
• Folliculitis

An itchy and or flaky scalp in most cases is NOT due to the scalp tissue being dry; in fact, often in the case of Psoriasis, it is due to an increased skin cell turnover that can be addressed at Shuna Hammocks Trichology.

Another misconception is that the scalp is dry when we see scales on the shoulders (described as dandruff, which is a layman’s term that is not, in fact, a diagnosis at all). This scalp condition is caused by the sebaceous material naturally excreted from the scalp sebaceous glands being of a higher percentage fungus than normal. This scalp condition can be addressed by altering the diet and using specific anti-fungal products; you would be guided in your consultation with Shuna Hammocks exactly what to and how to use such products.

It is really a difficult to comment on itchy flaky scalp being so general; I strongly advise that beyond washing more frequently that you do not try and self-diagnose and in particular possibly waste money on the wrong or insufficient treatment until you diagnose the scalp condition accurately.

Not alone, no. As Trichology is described as a holistic based service/approach, there are many factors to consider when diagnosing and then treating a condition such as a diet, lifestyle, family history, medications were taken, stress levels and only then what products and shampoo are used.

If the cause of the condition is understood, the chance of it worsening or reoccurring (if not chronic) are less and then perhaps yes, the correct shampoo for your scalp condition will help.

It can cause hair loss if the skin cell turnover is affected and plaques form on the head that may either prevent the hair growing through or cause the hair to temporary fall out, as with Psoriasis.

It’s important that the reader does not panic, as in cases where they have mild eczema they are most unlikely to cause loss of hair. There be a thinning or hair loss condition running alongside, but this rarely presents in a particular pattern.

Read a testimonial of one such possible hair thinning by John. You can also read Carol’s testimonial, a scalp condition patient came to the clinic for treatment.

At Shuna Hammocks Trichology we have been treating these scalp conditions and many more for years, and we understand that it can be uncomfortable, embarrassing and on occasion be concerning. We disagree with the use of hydrocortisone for most conditions and believe that support and guidance are very much in demand. We look forward to hearing from you.