Dry, flaky, scabbed, itchy scalp-HELP - Hair Problems Message Board

sdjansen · 07-28-2006, 11:58 PM

I dont know what is wrong with my scalp, it started about 3 years ago and steadily gotten worse. I get these chunks of dry scalp that feel like scabs and they drive me crazy so I end up picking at them whick makes them worse and also causes little bald spots that you cant notice now but I know if I keep this up you will be able to see it soon. I have tried T-Gel, Denerex, Head and shoulders, and all sorts of creams and sprays and nothing seems to help. It doesnt go away if I dont pick at them either. I havent been to see a dermotologist because I dont have insurance and I live on a waitress salary, but this is getting out of hand. I have even tried to change my diet thinking it was something I was eating, and that didnt help. Does anyone have any suggestions or ideas because this is driving me crazy and it hurts really bad.

Texanne · 07-29-2006, 11:08 AM

Sounds like psoriasis. That's what mine does on the scalp. If you can't go to a derm, keep using the the Denorex, extra strength or the strongest concentration of Coal Tar Shampoo that you can stand. Then, there is a clear liquid called Scalpicin ($9) that is 3% Salicylic Acid (which is what is in Extra Strength Denorex) that you can put on your scalp to help with the itching. The chunks of dry scalp are called plaques and are text book psoriasis of the scalp. Yes, it is a drag. You can try to get UV light on your scalp, which is really hard if you have long or thick hair, and that probably works best, for free. Vinegar can give you a lot of relief for cheap, too. I have gone to a derm in the past, and there are cortisone steriods that you can apply to your scalp, which work fabulously for a few years, but then you become immune and are right back where you started, which is where I am right now. I don't want to use ointments, because of the hair issue. Try a vinegar soak, (Apple Cider is best), then a Coal Tar shampoo, and the Scalpicin for relief between shampoos, and try to stick with it for a few weeks, if you can. Diet doesn't seem to help me, but avoiding stress and anxiety does. Psoriasis, if that is indeed what you have, is an auto-immune disorder, and can be triggered by stress. There is lots of information out there, so you should be able to find stuff.

Good Luck!

quincy · 07-30-2006, 02:20 AM

I think the scalpacin after shampooing is a good idea to help slough off the built up skin.

Your problem could also be related to yeast and I think you should firstly try Nizoral. Make sure you read the instructions carefully.

Definitely make an appointment with a dermatologist to get properly diagnosed.

quincy

divadebi · 08-02-2006, 07:55 PM

Glad I read this - I have been having the same problem, but I thought it was nerves. I feel like I have clawed my poor scalp like a wildcat!!! I have tried all the other products too, so I am going to try olive oil next. It seems to heal alot but salacytic acid is in some cosmetics, so I guess I'll try that also. Gettin' old ain't for sissies.

Texanne · 08-04-2006, 07:59 AM

Hey folks,

Just so you know Psoriasis has nothing to do with aging. My dad was diagnosed with it around age 20, while he was in the Navy. My diagnosis came around my mid-30's, but I've always had an itchy, flaky scalp, but had success with vinegar. I think that the stress of having two kids, and other things brought out the plaques and what appeared to be really heavy dandruff. It was so embarrassing.