Atopic dermatitis on the scalp: symptoms and treatment

Certain symptoms such as itching on the head, scratching or a burning sensation may be caused by atopic dermatitis on the scalp. Identifying its signs is key to treating it in time and that the discomfort that occurs with this disease does not intensify.

En Hospital Capilar, hair clinic in Madrid, Murcia and Pontevedra, we are experts in hair health. Below we will tell you how atopic dermatitis manifests itself on the scalp, as well as the main treatments to stop it.

What is atopic dermatitis on the scalp?

Atopic dermatitis is an inflammatory skin disease It usually affects children from an early age, although it can persist into adulthood. Genetic predisposition is involved in the development of this skin condition, but also other exogenous factors such as weather, diet, allergens, temperature changes or skin care itself. It is not a contagious disease and does not pose a serious health risk.

Normally this type of dermatitis usually occurs in the form of outbreaks throughout the body in areas such as the arms or legs. However, an outbreak of this disease can also develop on the head, causing discomfort such as itching, redness, and dryness.

Symptoms of atopic dermatitis

Knowing what the symptoms of atopic dermatitis on the scalp are is key to distinguishing it from others scalp diseasessuch as dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis. In any case, if the symptoms persist or intensify, it is important to see a dermatologist to receive the most appropriate treatment in our case.

Redness of the skin

One of the symptoms of atopic dermatitis on the scalp is reddening of the skin in the area. When the discomfort is acute and accompanied by intense scratching, the redness of the scalp is more evident.

itching and burning

Atopic dermatitis on the scalp is accompanied by intense itching in the affected area. The burning and stinging sensation causes some discomfort and discomfort in the patient, which leads to scratching and its consequent skin lesions.

dryness and irritation

The main difference between atopic dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis is that this first causes dry skin. However, seborrheic dermatitis occurs from excess oil and causes yellowish scaly plaques known as cradle caps.

Due to this excessive dryness, whitish plaques and cracked skin are common.

skin peeling

The excessive dryness and scratching that often accompanies atopic dermatitis on the scalp causes flaking. It is similar to the dandruff since whitish scales come off, although it is not the same. 

Is atopic dermatitis the same as seborrheic dermatitis?

As we have commented previously, atopic dermatitis is not the same as seborrheic dermatitis.

Atopic dermatitis on the scalp causes dry skin and irritation. This type of condition occurs mainly due to the genetic predisposition of the person, as well as environmental factors. However, seborrheic dermatitis is characterized by the appearance of yellowish sebum plaques or scales and occurs mainly due to excess oil on the skin, in addition to the proliferation of a fungus known as Malassezia, among others.

On the other hand, atopic dermatitis usually affects mainly children, although it can also persist into adulthood. However, seborrheic dermatitis affects people of any age without distinction.

The discomfort caused by both diseases are similar, but we should not confuse them.

Treatment of atopic dermatitis on the scalp

It is important to go to a specialist if we present symptoms of atopic dermatitis on the scalp to start with the most appropriate treatment for our case, since depending on the severity of the symptoms it can vary.  

Medicated hair products

When the patient develops an outbreak of atopic dermatitis on the scalp, it is common for the specialist to recommend the use of medicated shampoos. The main ingredients are the ketoconazole and coal tar. These active ingredients help reduce inflammation and discomfort such as itching and stinging.

Topical corticosteroids

Corticosteroid ointments or creams are another treatment for atopic dermatitis on the scalp. Depending on the severity of the outbreak, one or the other is used to reduce the discomfort of this disease.

Topical immunomodulators

In the most severe cases where topical corticosteroids are not effective, creams with tacrolimus or pimecrolimus, known as topical immunomodulators, are used.

Warm water in the washes

One of the recommendations to reduce the effects of atopic dermatitis on the scalp is to avoid hot water when washing. It is advisable to use warm water to reduce the itching and itching of the area.

Does atopic dermatitis on the scalp cause hair loss?

Atopic dermatitis on the scalp as such does not cause hair loss or baldness, since it is a disease that does not affect the hair follicles but the skin. However, intense scratching derived from the itching and stinging of atopic dermatitis can end up damaging the hair.

On the other hand, some of the treatments used to control outbreaks of atopic dermatitis on the scalp, such as topical corticosteroids, can cause the hair to become thinner.