Tips For Dealing With Scalp Eczema
Posted by Kelly Northey on 20th May 2014
Eczema is a hassle no matter where it shows up – but scalp eczema presents some specific challenges that can make it a real struggle for kids who have it and their parents who try and help them get through it. Scalp eczema happens when atopic dermatitis appears on the scalp underneath the hair. This is a troublesome area because the eczema cannot be seen as easily as it can on other areas of the body and it can be extremely challenging to get ointments and other treatments against the skin when the hair is in the way. While scalp eczema can be troublesome, there are some simple things you can do to help your child get the relief and itch-free rest they need – and we’ll share them with you in today’s post.
Get To The Roots
We’re lucky because now days there are several shampoos that contain ingredients to help soothe, moisturize, and protect the scalp. Many people who deal with scalp eczema have used shampoos that contain zinc and other minerals which are commonly used to treat dandruff but can be a little helpful in soothing eczema itching. Shampoos for eczema or scalp conditioning are a great option because they are designed to get past the hair and down to the skin with a simple wash.
Therapeutic Baths
Just like eczema on the skin, eczema on the scalp can be benefitted greatly by a soak. Adding eczema bath oils to a bath is a great way to deeply moisturize and heal the scalp just letting the oils from the bath soak into the scalp by helping your bub or child lie back into the bath or using a wash cloth to soak up the water and oils then washing your baby or child's head with it.
Oils
Many people have found great success in massaging specific oils through the roots of their hair and onto their scalp. This is a favorite trick for people with short hair or no hair, but it can be used effectively by people with long or even thick hair as well. Jojoba is a great oil that can be sparingly massaged into the roots and against the scalp to create a healing barrier of moisturizing and protection.
Skip The Suds
Another simple thing many people with scalp eczema find success in is not showering or bathing as often. Letting a day or two pass between baths or shampoo treatments, especially with kids, can help the scalp build up natural oils that help soothe and protect the skin on the head. There are also many dry shampoos that could be experimented with to see if they make a helpful alternative to detergent washes several times per week.
Does your child deal with eczema on their
scalp? What have you tried to help them?
Share your experiences with us in the comments below – we’d love to hear from
you!