The Sensitive Scalp Support Thread!

[Nadine <3]

My scalp is so dumb. I feel like a little kid! I want to stomp my feet and whine (just a little :p) because it's not fair!

Ever since joining a year ago, I've wanted to switch over to a more gentle washing method. I first tried CO washing and my hair was FABULOUS! I loved it and happily CO washed for several months. After a few weeks I got an sore itchy scalp and then to my horror, my hair started falling out by the fist fulls! I tried shampoo and the itches went away right away, and my hair shed went back to normal after a week or so of shampoo. After that, I was terrified so I shampoo'd and wouldn't try anything else. Once I got up the nerve, I tried going water only. This only lasted 2 weeks. I itched my head so hard I was afraid I'd rip my scalp open. Back to shampoo. Now just recently, I tried an egg wash out of curiosity and it worked so well I didn't want to stop so I stuck with it. I bought a sulfate free shampoo and rotated between them. Well, I got itchy after about a month of that and my hair started shedding like mad, so I tried stopping the egg washes and just sticking with the sulfate free shampoo. Nope, no go my shedding was nuts. I clarified thinking maybe it was built up on my scalp and then tried the sulfate free...2 weeks was all it took for the itching and shedding to rear its ugly head. So now I'm back using shampoo and while my scalp is happy as can be, my hair is not. So, I'm trying to dilute my shampoo so it isn't so harsh, and doing a CWC routine to protect the ends. It's better, but not as smooth as it was when sulfate free...

So, whose with me? Anyone else have a similar problem?

Feel free to vent about other scalp woes here.

[Jaxibella]

Funny, this is exactly what I came here to post about!! I'm so confused by my scalp in these past few months. I was fine when I was washing/conditioning every day or every other day, and for a while I did WO once a week (no shampoo ever) and that went really well up until the very end. I started getting itchy sores and blamed it on my school's hard water. After that I started using various shampoos and conditioners twice a week, and my scalp is so itchy!!

I guess I don't understand - I used to use shampoo/conditioner all the time, why is it being so finicky now? And what do I need to do to make it stop? Because I'm so tired of itching. :(

[tokugawa.miyako]

I'm not sure if my scalp would be considered sensitive, but I have always had the most horrendous problems with itching and dandruff. I have had dandruff literally since I was a baby and, try as I might, I have never been able to get rid of it. I've used every method you can imagine and I still have itching and flaking. It drives me up the wall. Eventually, I decided that I should just make peace with the fact that my scalp is temperamental. I actually think I might have had a slight decrease in flaking since I started washing (CO) once a week with a scalp massage every morning. But it might just be wishful thinking at this point.

[Katrine]

I'm so sorry to hear of your scalp woes. I'm having some of my own these days. :(

Have you ever been to a specialist for your scalp issues? It would help you determine what kind of routine is best for your hair and scalp. I was diagnosed with scalp psoriasis when I was a teenager and I'm still learning how to properly care for it.

My scalp got a little sunburned a couple of weeks ago and it caused my psoriasis to flare. And my hair to shed, ugh. So I've had to make changes to my hair routine (again) and treat my scalp very gently. I found (finally) a dandruff shampoo that works for me, dilute, and have been using that exclusively. Am trying to find another shampoo to rotate as my scalp gets better but haven't found one yet. I thought I found one recently but after trying it yesterday shed a handful so I'll keep trying.

I hope you find a routine that works well for your scalp and your hair :)

[meteor]

I have a relatively sensitive scalp, which I think reacts to SLS (I feel very light itching the first day after a wash, but after that it feels fine). If a product results in bothersome reaction, I just use something else and it goes away. SLS-free routine generally keeps my scalp a bit less clean, which builds up over time, so I'd rather stretch washes but use effective SLS cleansers than use mild cleansers but wash more often.
And I love diluting shampoo, too! If I feel like it didn't cleanse enough, I apply diluted shampoo a second or third time, but it's still better for my scalp and hair than undiluted stuff, and it washes out more easily. :)
It's quite annoying how hard it is to find an affordable shampoo that will be fragrance-free and will be made of only a few non-irritating ingredients.

On a different but slightly related note, I never stop being amazed at how far some folks are ready to go to replace a perfectly functioning shampoo just to avoid the chemicals (like it's even possible! :lol:)
I really like what this long-hair (Alla Perkova (http://odessamedia.net/upload/articles/2013-12-10/6f70045ab976dcfced0e2f98c884e991.jpg)), who only uses shampoo on her hair, mentioned in one of her interviews: "Why would I do DIY, try hard to replace shampoo if that's what chemists came up with specifically to cleanse scalp and hair? Just find the right shampoo for you." Of course, it's not like she's a professional trichologist, but she's definitely smart enough not to overthink it. :)
Though we can benefit from many conditioners, oils and lots other great natural and commercial products, shampoo is definitely a major mainstay! :D

[Sarden]

I agree with meteor. I have a very sensitive scalp and realised straight off after 1 or two tries that it NEEDED to be clean and for that it needed sls so I don't sweat it any more and just with the chemicals. They work well for my hair so why not? I try to stretch my washes etc of course to try and fuss with it as little as possible but when it come to cleaning it I can't see the point in trying to force my hair into something else in the name of being more natural.

I also had a horrible experience with oil in my scalp - never again, my hair hated it. I shed more that day than I did in a week and it was terrifying!

[Wosie]

Perfect thread for me. My scalp is extremely sensitive and it is always covered in flakes, regularly in scales and often scabs too. Nothing has worked for me thus far, so I'll be following this thread with lots of interest. Also, sending a thought to everybody else who is suffering from the same thing, it can be terrible some days. :heartbeat

Something which is related to this: I started using Head & Shoulders (for dry scalps) a few days ago again, and I do think it made it itch a little less... so far.

[Sarden]

Has anybody ever used aloe vera gel for itchy/sensitive scalp with any success? Was going to to a SMT later and wondered about putting neat aloe gel on my scalp and the rest f the SMT in the length/end.

[Nadine <3]

Has anybody ever used aloe vera gel for itchy/sensitive scalp with any success? Was going to to a SMT later and wondered about putting neat aloe gel on my scalp and the rest f the SMT in the length/end.

I mix aloe vera gel in with my diluted shampoo! I find that not only does it make my scalp feel nice without clogging things up but I feel like it actually decreases me shedding! I love the stuff. When I do scalp massages I use aloe instead of oil.

Definitely come hang out here if you have any sort of scalp irritation! flakes, bump, itchiness...

I haven't talked to a Dr about my scalp just because it feels perfectly fine as long as I use sulfates. I think if I told my dr that she'd look at me like I was nuts and tell me to just use the shampoo that doesn't hurt my head lol

[Caldonia Sun]

I've had a sensitive scalp for the last 15 years. Nothing I tried worked and believe me, I tried about everything possible. Finally, though, something has alleviated all the redness, itching and tightness. I use a sulfate-free shampoo (Toadstool), dilute and add a spoon of raw, organic honey. Voila'! Took a long time, but my scalp is finally happy.

[lapushka]

I have SD, I need harsh shampoos so the itchies and hairfall stays away. It's pretty successful at keeping it at bay. Once however, the itchies start back up and the scales are there, and the hairfall, then I need Nizoral (2%). I can't do CO, and I can't go sulfate free or it exacerbates the condition. Sulfates for the win.

[Jaxibella]

I have SD, I need harsh shampoos so the itchies and hairfall stays away. It's pretty successful at keeping it at bay. Once however, the itchies start back up and the scales are there, and the hairfall, then I need Nizoral (2%). I can't do CO, and I can't go sulfate free or it exacerbates the condition. Sulfates for the win.

Sorry, what is SD?

Maybe whatever issue I have is related/similar, and that's why sulfate free shampoos and SO/WO only work for me for a week or so!

[Stormynights]

Years ago, two very popular products that were used for scalp problems where Sea Breeze and the original Listerene diluted. I know a lot of people were very happy with the results back then.

[meteor]

Has anybody ever used aloe vera gel for itchy/sensitive scalp with any success? Was going to to a SMT later and wondered about putting neat aloe gel on my scalp and the rest f the SMT in the length/end.


I've had a sensitive scalp for the last 15 years. Nothing I tried worked and believe me, I tried about everything possible. Finally, though, something has alleviated all the redness, itching and tightness. I use a sulfate-free shampoo (Toadstool), dilute and add a spoon of raw, organic honey. Voila'! Took a long time, but my scalp is finally happy.

Yes, both aloe vera and honey have some great scientific support for them to be used on sensitive skin. I love them both in skincare and haircare. Good to add to cleansers and rinses. :D And they are nice humectants, too. (I do recommend making sure you aren't allergic to them first, because allergies to aloe and honey aren't that rare.)


Sorry, what is SD?

Maybe whatever issue I have is related/similar, and that's why sulfate free shampoos and SO/WO only work for me for a week or so!

You can ask your family doctor or a dermatologist to examine your scalp. :) And yes, SD is a very common condition that causes dandruff, flaking, itching...
I suspect the reason that sulfate-free and SO/WO only work for you for a week or so is possibly simply because they are not cleansing enough for you?

[Nadine <3]

Hm, maybe since I've had so much luck with washing my face with honey (combination skin, acne prone, and psoriasis all on one face EEK!) I should try adding that to my diluted shampoo. I'm worried about it spoiling or getting funky though. I boil the small plastic bottle I dilute in between every use and I dilute with purified water. Do you guys think it would be safe to add honey to it?

[meteor]

Hm, maybe since I've had so much luck with washing my face with honey (combination skin, acne prone, and psoriasis all on one face EEK!) I should try adding that to my diluted shampoo. I'm worried about it spoiling or getting funky though. I boil the small plastic bottle I dilute in between every use and I dilute with purified water. Do you guys think it would be safe to add honey to it?

I dilute only enough shampoo for just one wash, because otherwise the preservatives are too diluted and you can get bacterial growth in the mix. To that diluted shampoo (in a separate applicator bottle) I add a bit of honey or sometimes neem oil or tea tree oil or whatever else I want.
If you have leftovers, you can keep it in the fridge for only a few days.

[Nadine <3]

Oh crud...I should dump the one I have then, I've had it for close to a week now. I use such a tiny amount, I didn't think it would go such a long way.

[meteor]

Oh crud...I should dump the one I have then, I've had it for close to a week now. I use such a tiny amount, I didn't think it would go such a long way.

If it doesn't smell weird and didn't change color or something, it's probably still OK, especially if you use purified water! :D The sniff test is best. There isn't a exact timeline on how fast things go off, it depends on temperature and many other things.

[Nadine <3]

So it's only bad if it smells off? Okay, good! It still smells like shampoo! I added a bit of rosemary oil to it as well. Still smells good :) I'll try making smaller batches in the future.

[Hele]

Years ago, two very popular products that were used for scalp problems where Sea Breeze and the original Listerene diluted. I know a lot of people were very happy with the results back then.

i've had some success with the Sea Breeze but have recently switched over to plain ol' witch hazel. I've had a bad case of "angry scalp syndrome" for as long as i can remember..itchy/burning, dandruff prone, gets a red crusty rash when it's really being hostile. I think a part of the problem is that my hair is really thick and the roots of my hair takes literally forever to dry, and when it's hot sweat gets trapped under there (the blow dryer is my friend), the symptoms are worse when it's hot out and when i don't blow dry my roots. Things i've tried that make it worse are all sorts of dandruff shampoos, cassia, oiling, and stretching washes. My scalp now seems to hate all shampoos equally but if i don't use any the situation gets worse, and i dilute them considerably. CO worked for about a month but then my scalp revolted and went back to being "angry". The one thing that really seems to help is applying witch hazel to my scalp, i use a squeeze bottle and massage it into my scalp. It's like throwing water on a fire! Because of it i can now wash every other day, as opposed to daily.

[meteor]

I can't believe I forgot to mention clay as a scalp cleansing mask. It's really messy to apply and wash off, but it has a great advantage of being highly absorbent and really non-irritating, which is why it's used as a neutral thickener in many conditioners/lotions/make-up for people with extremely sensitive skin.
I should go back to doing clay masks not only on my face but also on my scalp, maybe once a month or whenever I have time. I like to add some honey to my clay masks and I never apply to length. After that, hair looks clean for significantly longer and the scalp is always happy. :)
Has anybody else used bentonite, rhassoul, kaolin or any other clay on scalp?

[lapushka]

Sorry, what is SD?

Maybe whatever issue I have is related/similar, and that's why sulfate free shampoos and SO/WO only work for me for a week or so!

It's a commonly used abbreviation on this site. It means seborrheic dermatitis. :)

[darklyndsea]

It's a commonly used abbreviation on this site. It means seborrheic dermatitis. :)

But what are the symptoms? I know it has to do with the scalp being unhappy, but other than that I don't think I've seen an explanation.

[meteor]

But what are the symptoms? I know it has to do with the scalp being unhappy, but other than that I don't think I've seen an explanation.

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/seborrheic-dermatitis/basics/definition/con-20031872

There is a link between SD and Malassezia fungus, which feeds off natural sebum and natural oils rich in oleic acid (e.g. olive oil, sweet almond oil, etc), which is why it is important to be careful with oils and try to keep scalp clean if you have SD.

[leilani]

I've tried Benny clay and it makes scalp happy, just hard to rinse clean, have to shampoo it out.

I have no oil production, No dandruff, but itchy scalp and bumps I scratch into sores and sometimes a scaly patch. :(
Head and shoulders worked fine but I don't want to use it anymore, I haven't given up yet searching for a routine that works to make scalp happy without it.

Aloe Vera gel on scalp is very nice but doesn't solve things. I think I'll try adding honey to my Indian herbs wash tomorrow...Maybe aloe too and let it soak on awhile.
I think I'll give things about another month and then I'm just going to go for itchy scalp sulfate shampoos again, I love diy hair treatments but my scalp doesn't appreciate it enough...

[Zugar]

I can't believe I forgot to mention clay as a scalp cleansing mask. It's really messy to apply and wash off, but it has a great advantage of being highly absorbent and really non-irritating, which is why it's used as a neutral thickener in many conditioners/lotions/make-up for people with extremely sensitive skin.
I should go back to doing clay masks not only on my face but also on my scalp, maybe once a month or whenever I have time. I like to add some honey to my clay masks and I never apply to length. After that, hair looks clean for significantly longer and the scalp is always happy. :)
Has anybody else used bentonite, rhassoul, kaolin or any other clay on scalp?


Hi!

Think I´ve tried so many things for my itching, but never tried clay masks. How do you do this? What products do you use?

I´ve been itching on and off for.... hmm.... ten years or something, and no doctors can find anything. No hairdressers either. No flaking, no dandruff. I actually thought I´d found a solution this summer, when my routine were twice a week using a clarifying shampoo and then fungoral (one of the SD-shampoos) shampoo, but it only worked for a few weeks, then it stopped *sighs* I have one theory that it´s because the thickness of my hair, but I don´t know.

Oh, the ranting..... I´ve actually been really close to shave all the hair off, until I read that a lot of people who shave their hair start to itch when it grows back out!

[meteor]

Zugar, I dilute clay in water (enough to make a paste) - the water to clay ratio is only important for your own ease of application - so get it as watery as you like.
I add half-a-teaspoon of honey to the mix and a drop of ACV. Sometimes, I add a couple drops of neem oil or tea tree oil, too. But all of this is unnecessary: the clay and water is enough for this grease-absorbing mask.
I like using it right after washing my hair: so clay to the scalp + conditioner to the length + plastic cap for 20 minutes or so and I'm doing a conditioning treatment for both scalp and length at once.
Unfortunately, it's a hassle to wash out (I use lots of water), so I don't do this often.

You can use any clay you like: bentonite, rhassoul, kaolin, etc... they all work like mud-masks by absorbing water, oil and gunk. You can check out their differences online.
They should be available for cheap in pharmacies and in local Indian shops. I don't recommend buying online or in health stores - because they tend to really overprice something that is essentially mud.

[Nadine <3]

Woke up this morning with an itchy, mad scalp. I gave myself a nice scalp massage using aloe vera gel. That worked perfectly and really killed the itchies! The best part was it didn't make my hair look greasy and I was able to put it into a really nice, sleek dutch braid! :)

[Korrals]

I'll join the sensitive scalp thread :). I've got what I am assuming is Seb Derm as well. Current treatment is Nizoral 1%. Using Yes to Carrots conditioner and so far so good. I HAVE to wear my hair up though, or else I will just itch all day. It is highly frustrating. Hoping to try some Aloe too next time i am at walgreens or a health-food store. NO idea what started my SD outbreak. I am eating healthier than I ever have in my life, my stress level was pretty good when i got it, so i guess i just got a random attack. I've never had SD to my knowledge, maybe as a baby though? Regardless, if it isn't better significantly by the end of the week, off to the dermatologist I go!

[meteor]

I'm curious if other members with sensitive scalps like using neem oil or tea tree oil on scalp? I find them really useful in pre-poo or added to diluted shampoo, but I wonder if others use them too? :flower:

[Nadine <3]

I'll join the sensitive scalp thread :). I've got what I am assuming is Seb Derm as well. Current treatment is Nizoral 1%. Using Yes to Carrots conditioner and so far so good. I HAVE to wear my hair up though, or else I will just itch all day. It is highly frustrating. Hoping to try some Aloe too next time i am at walgreens or a health-food store. NO idea what started my SD outbreak. I am eating healthier than I ever have in my life, my stress level was pretty good when i got it, so i guess i just got a random attack. I've never had SD to my knowledge, maybe as a baby though? Regardless, if it isn't better significantly by the end of the week, off to the dermatologist I go!

Welcome! Make sure the aloe you get is not the green stuff. I'm not sure, but I read somewhere here that the green stuff isn't great for hair. I got this
( http://www.amazon.com/Fruit-Earth-100%25-Aloe-Vera/dp/B000ALDK1A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1410748931&sr=8-1&keywords=aloe+vera+gel )
and I really love it for my scalp!


I'm curious if other members with sensitive scalps like using neem oil or tea tree oil on scalp? I find them really useful in pre-poo or added to diluted shampoo, but I wonder if others use them too? :flower:

I do! I put tea tree in my diluted shampoo with a squirt of aloe. I love the way it feels on my scalp and I feel like it does calm things down when I'm really itchy. Never tried neem oil though, what one do you like better?

[meteor]

Welcome! Make sure the aloe you get is not the green stuff. I'm not sure, but I read somewhere here that the green stuff isn't great for hair. I got this
( http://www.amazon.com/Fruit-Earth-100%25-Aloe-Vera/dp/B000ALDK1A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1410748931&sr=8-1&keywords=aloe+vera+gel )
and I really love it for my scalp!

Yes, the clear aloe vera gel is better than green because natural aloe vera gel (from the plant) is clear, not green, so when you see green stuff, you know they used artificial color in it. However, even clear stuff can have color and other unnecessary ingredients added to it, so your best bet is to simply read the ingredients list. :)
Also aloe vera juice is a great alternative to aloe vera gel, and it's easier to find pure aloe vera juice than gel because the gel is harder to stabilize so they add some chemicals to it.


I do! I put tea tree in my diluted shampoo with a squirt of aloe. I love the way it feels on my scalp and I feel like it does calm things down when I'm really itchy. Never tried neem oil though, what one do you like better?
Great to know! :D I like them both but I prefer neem oil, because it moisturizes my scalp and hair like nothing else, whereas tea tree can be a bit drying sometimes and I need to dilute it in something else. Neem oil is a carrier oil, so no dilution is necessary. Also, it has some sulfur, which is good for scalp and hair. It is also amazing for acne breakouts and any other issues dealing with healing skin or calming down irritation.
However, the big downside of neem oil is its terrible smell: like burnt or rotten garlic or something. :( However, we can also make neem rinses from boiled neem leaves and they are supposed to be less smelly than the oil. Neem is usually sold at great prices in Indian shops. :)

[Nadine <3]

Hm, I'll have to try neem then because as much as I love the way the tea tree feels I don't want to dry my scalp out and to be honest, tea tree was a disaster on my face... It also sounds like it would be nice to add to the oil I use on my face. I have acne and psoriasis on my face so I'm always looking for things to slather on that to make it feel better. Right now I'm using a mix of Hemp and grape seed. I'll have to give it a sniff test first...garlic smells putrid to me when it isn't burnt or rotten, so I'm not sure I'd be okay with that smell lol


I was thinking of trying head and shoulders to see if that would help :hmm:

[dottodot]

I’m so happy this thread exists. I've been diagnosed with SD and have a sensitive scalp on top of it all, so it’s been really hard for me to re-establish the routine I've developed through many nights of lurking and researching. Upon joining this site I faithfully followed CO but it turned ugly.. Flakes everywhere, discomfort beyond belief.. I couldn't take it.
I was prescribed a topical steroid for a sensitive scalp to deal with my SD but I’m finding it hard to believe that a steroid is sensitive scalp friendly. I've used it once and my scalp seems to be fine. My Dermatologist told me to respect the roid, so I’m abiding by his rules, but I’m terrified of the stuff. I think I’m going to give the Aloe a try for when the irritation flares up.
I’m seeing a lot of Sulfates vs. No sulfates in regards to sensitive scalp and SD. Seems as though each scalp is unique and remedies vary. I’m currently using the CWC method with a SLS free shampoo and it seems to be benefiting my scalp as well as my waves.
Having a healthy scalp means healthy growth and happy hair so it’s hard to feel confident and content when our scalps are rebelling. Loving all the support here.

[Zugar]

Hm, I'll have to try neem then because as much as I love the way the tea tree feels I don't want to dry my scalp out and to be honest, tea tree was a disaster on my face... It also sounds like it would be nice to add to the oil I use on my face. I have acne and psoriasis on my face so I'm always looking for things to slather on that to make it feel better. Right now I'm using a mix of Hemp and grape seed. I'll have to give it a sniff test first...garlic smells putrid to me when it isn't burnt or rotten, so I'm not sure I'd be okay with that smell lol


I was thinking of trying head and shoulders to see if that would help :hmm:


Hello Nadine :)

I have terrible skin too, a mix of acne, SD, psoriasis and atopic eczema (how it´s possible to both have SD and AE is beyond me). Anyway, just thought I´d give you a tip about facial skin. I´ve experimented with a lot of things, oil, etc, and if it treated the acne, the eczema flared up, and vice versa. But the last three weeks or so I´ve washed my face with alepposoap 40%, and moisturized with aloe vera gel (the green kind). In all honesty I do have to mention that I also use the antibiotics Dalacin (think it´s Klindamycin), but, this has never worked when used before, so I definitely think the aleppo and aloe has a lot to do with my results. Just a tip :)

[Zugar]

I’m so happy this thread exists. I've been diagnosed with SD and have a sensitive scalp on top of it all, so it’s been really hard for me to re-establish the routine I've developed through many nights of lurking and researching. Upon joining this site I faithfully followed CO but it turned ugly.. Flakes everywhere, discomfort beyond belief.. I couldn't take it.
I was prescribed a topical steroid for a sensitive scalp to deal with my SD but I’m finding it hard to believe that a steroid is sensitive scalp friendly. I've used it once and my scalp seems to be fine. My Dermatologist told me to respect the roid, so I’m abiding by his rules, but I’m terrified of the stuff. I think I’m going to give the Aloe a try for when the irritation flares up.
I’m seeing a lot of Sulfates vs. No sulfates in regards to sensitive scalp and SD. Seems as though each scalp is unique and remedies vary. I’m currently using the CWC method with a SLS free shampoo and it seems to be benefiting my scalp as well as my waves.
Having a healthy scalp means healthy growth and happy hair so it’s hard to feel confident and content when our scalps are rebelling. Loving all the support here.


Hi dottodot, what steroid were you prescribed? Which grade? I don´t know how it is in the US, but here in Norway it´s a common problem that people are "afraid" of the steroids, and don´t want to use them. This is mainly because twenty, thirty years ago the doctors prescribed them telling their patients "use a lot!", and then the side effects like thinning skin etc showed its ugly head, with the results that people now a day often don´t want to use them. You can in one way compare them to antibiotics; use the prescribed amount, and then stop. It´s not dangerous to use every once in awhile, as long as you, as your doctor says; respect them.

With that said, here it´s not all that common to use steroids for SD, since they often lead to acne and other types of eczema. Have you tried the ketozone xxx (don´t remember the full name) for your SD?

[Olavi]

For me it's not only scalp that is sensitive. The skin on my whole body is freakishly sensitive, thanks to atopy. For now I have only few eczema patches, and they are on my hands and arms, but my skin is dry and I have 24/7 itch (since birth and still going). The scalp is bit more sensitive for things like cones and sweat and so on (interestingly sulphates seems to be okay), than the rest of the body. I have been trying to stretch shampoo washes for about a month, and noticed I can't entirely skip washing my scalp, but I have to WO wash in between days or the scalp gets unbearably itchy.

[dottodot]

Zugar, I was prescribed Clobetasol Propionate, 0.05%. So, it is a very low dose. It contains, purified water as a base with isopropyl alcohol, carbomer 934P, sodium hydroxide and hydrochloric acid to adjust pH. The stigma about steroids is exactly what my Doctor was getting on about. Looking at it like you would respect an antibiotic makes me feel a lot better about my usage. I only use it when my SD is overwhelming. That is the only time. I was warned of over usage leading to thinning skin but Doctor's have to disclose all of the side of effects. This steroid in particular doesn't cause too many side effects because of its low dose, I think. Thank you for the insight and advice!

I have not tried ketoconazole or whatever it's called for my SD. I noticed in a different thread it was quite popular among SD sufferers. When I went to the store to pick up some anti-dandruff, anti-fungal shampoo, I read the warning label on ketoconazole and it said it could lead to the straightening of permanent waves or curls in the hair and that scared me. Do you know if that is true? Anyone that uses it experience the straightening of their waves? Or is it regarding permed hair and not a natural wave?

[lapushka]

I have not tried ketoconazole or whatever it's called for my SD. I noticed in a different thread it was quite popular among SD sufferers. When I went to the store to pick up some anti-dandruff, anti-fungal shampoo, I read the warning label on ketoconazole and it said it could lead to the straightening of permanent waves or curls in the hair and that scared me. Do you know if that is true? Anyone that uses it experience the straightening of their waves? Or is it regarding permed hair and not a natural wave?

I have never read that warning on my shampoo. That is *odd* to have mentioned on a side-effects leaflet. :confused: When my SD kicks up a storm I use Nizoral (2%) and I have never seen my waves disappear.

[ravenreed]

My scalp and my hair need two very different things. For instance, my hair loves SLS shampoos, but my scalp doesn't. In addition, I am allergic to a ridiculous number of things so I have to be rather careful what I use. One thing that helps me so much with scalp itchies and flakies is ACV rinses. I used to scratch my scalp bloody. Now, unless I have use shampoo on my scalp for some reason, my scalp is fairly happy.

[dottodot]

lapushka, It might have been for a particular brand? Does Ketonconazole Shampoo come in brands? I looked up the side effect info online here: http://www.drugs.com/cdi/ketoconazole-shampoo.html

Under Important Safety Information it says:
"Hair discoloration, abnormal hair texture, oiliness and dryness of hair and scalp, removal of the curl from permanently waved hair, and hair loss have been reported with the use of ketoconazole shampoo. Discuss any questions or concerns with your doctor."

I guess it's not an actual side effect, just reports of a people who've experienced it. Must be one of those warnings they have to include for legal reasons. Still, it scared me enough to put it back on the shelf. My Doctor did say it was fine to use along with my steroid. But so far, the steroid is doing it's job. I'm glad you haven't had any abnormal reactions to it. I've never heard anyone say they have yet. Do you think if it does change your hair texture or wave pattern it stays that way forever?

[lapushka]

Do you think if it does change your hair texture or wave pattern it stays that way forever?

:shrug: No clue. My guess is as good as yours. The Nizoral I mentioned = Ketoconazole!

[dottodot]

My scalp and my hair need two very different things. For instance, my hair loves SLS shampoos, but my scalp doesn't. In addition, I am allergic to a ridiculous number of things so I have to be rather careful what I use. One thing that helps me so much with scalp itchies and flakies is ACV rinses. I used to scratch my scalp bloody. Now, unless I have use shampoo on my scalp for some reason, my scalp is fairly happy.

I scratch until I bleed too; terrible picking habit. ACV rinses have saved my life a few times. But my Doctor kind of turned his nose up at my suggestion to this alternative which was very disappointing. Are you using the rinse to please your scalp and length at the same time?

[dottodot]

:shrug: No clue. My guess is as good as yours. The Nizoral I mentioned = Ketoconazole!

Here's to hoping it is a very rare and temporary side effect. Oh, they are the same? Gotcha. Who knows, one of these days I might give it a try!

[Korrals]

[QUOTE=Nadine <3;2820807]Welcome! Make sure the aloe you get is not the green stuff. I'm not sure, but I read somewhere here that the green stuff isn't great for hair. I got this
( http://www.amazon.com/Fruit-Earth-100%25-Aloe-Vera/dp/B000ALDK1A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1410748931&sr=8-1&keywords=aloe+vera+gel )
and I really love it for my scalp!


Thanks so much for the advice! I was wondering if anyone knew if tea tree oil being a neurotoxin is a myth? I've heard it being praised and shunned. I personally am open to using it, and I have in the past, I was just curious if there is any basis to the rumors.
My SD seems MUCH better today! I didn't use any type of shampoo today though, so we will see how that treats it.
I haven't personally used neem oil on my hair, but I believe I used a leather conditioner made out of it LOL. It sure conditioned my saddles well, so I'm sure it'd work wonders on hair.

[Korrals]

I have been using Nizoral (twice now), and I haven't experienced any bad side effects; of course, you have different skin then mine though. I have heard of people actually using Nizoral to remedy hair loss, apparently it reduces shedding in some people?
Nizoral was definitely gentler for me than Selsun Blue Medicated, but again, we have different hair.

[ravenreed]

I use it for two reasons. One is that it makes my scalp less itchy and the other is that I have very hard water and the ACV helps with that too. So in the case of ACV, yes it helps my scalp and length both. If I moved to an area with softer water, I would probably switch to just using it on my scalp.

Did your doctor just turn his nose up at it or actively discourage you from using it for some reason? Because if it is the former and it helps, you might consider using it anyway. However, if the doctor has a legitimate reason for you not using it, such as it might make a particular scalp condition worse, I would listen.


I scratch until I bleed too; terrible picking habit. ACV rinses have saved my life a few times. But my Doctor kind of turned his nose up at my suggestion to this alternative which was very disappointing. Are you using the rinse to please your scalp and length at the same time?

[Zugar]

In Norway the brand thats using ketozon xxx (long name...), is called Fungoral. They also sell a cream you need prescription for, but the shampoo is sold over the counter. As far as I can remember the dosage of leto is the same in both products, and doctors also recommend their patients to wash their face with the shampoo, instead of using the cream. Maybe because the cream is left on for longer, while the shampoo won@t stay on too long? I´ve never heard of the side effect regarding hair texture either, and it didn´t change mine. That being said, my hair one day decides to be curly, the next not, so...

Am I the only one whose scalp acts up when rinsing with ACV? Water in it self can make it itch, but the ACV.... aaaah, that burns!

[hydrationseeker]

Hi all, I also have a testy scalp and whilst I am fortunate to have immediate reactions to what I might try and put on my skin, a homeopath advised me that my skin/scalp issues were deeper than reactions to topical products. I cleaned my diet up (still trying) and looked at supplements to support my liver and kidneys.
Result is I rarely react to my filtered shower water or basic shampoos or conditioners like I did before. Just wanted to put out there.... I also haven't read to the end of thread, mortal sin, so I don't know if this has been mentioned.....

X

[hydrationseeker]

Just wanted to add that I didn't just look at supplements. .. I took some of them.

Ooo and neen oil skinks like nothing else but really works. I use a marshmallow root and neem leaf tea final rinse, as the oil is too much to leave in and continue to have a SO. Works wonders for my hair and has a ph5.5

A few years ago my son contracted ringworm on his scalp, from playing in a sand pit! The doctor medication got rid of it in 2 wks, but it returned. I studied it as Google allowed me and came up with a neem oil with thyme eo as a nightly treatment and literally noticed a change within 24 hrs. So as an anti fungal that is not as questionable as tea tree oil. Neem is good. Just stinks.

X

[PurpleSunshine]

I figured out that when I apply my aloe vera condition to the back of my head to brush down my hair, where ever the conditioner soaks into the scalp, since I let it sit for 5 mins, is tender and soft until the next wash, I think its the aloe making my skin there softer and it pulls more, or is more sensitive, last three washes I applied from a low ponytail area and down, and I've had little to no sensitive and painful scalp from my buns. Hopefully this continues.

[Korrals]

Hi all, I also have a testy scalp and whilst I am fortunate to have immediate reactions to what I might try and put on my skin, a homeopath advised me that my skin/scalp issues were deeper than reactions to topical products. I cleaned my diet up (still trying) and looked at supplements to support my liver and kidneys.
Result is I rarely react to my filtered shower water or basic shampoos or conditioners like I did before. Just wanted to put out there.... I also haven't read to the end of thread, mortal sin, so I don't know if this has been mentioned.....

X

I have heard that diet/liver may affect SD/Scalp sensitivity, but the funny thing with me is that I am on Probiotics already, and my diet is better than it's been in my life. I definitely wouldn't discount it at all, but I am completely stumped as to why my scalp reacted the way it did. I had been CG for at least six months, and I had just started using a lowpoo instead of co wash. Going off the lowpoo didn't help, and me, thinking it was just dry skin, made the unfortunate mistake of putting olive oil on my dry patches. Has anyone used the raw honey/coconut oil method? I am currently using it on my face (i noticed some dry patches and i am being extra cautious in case my SD is spreading to my face), but I am wondering if it would also work on hair?

[Sarden]

So I tried aloe vera on my scalp last wash (Monday) and today (Thursday). I mixed a little with my shampoo and I have to say I was impressed with the results. My scalp was definitely less itchy yesterday, which is my very itchy day normally (day 2 after wash). I also experienced far less shedding when I did wash today which I'm sure must be to do with less scratching.

Thanks for the info!

[leilani]

I finally gave in after six months and am now washing my hair every day with dandruff shampoo. My scalp was feeling so awful and crazy hair loss and icky scaly patches along hairline,and I tried every natural diy scalp friendly treatment for six months but it didn't work. Three days of daily shampooing and it feels much better but I feel like I failed.

[lapushka]

I finally gave in after six months and am now washing my hair every day with dandruff shampoo. My scalp was feeling so awful and crazy hair loss and icky scaly patches along hairline,and I tried every natural diy scalp friendly treatment for six months but it didn't work. Three days of daily shampooing and it feels much better but I feel like I failed.

Why? I have to have my hair washed with harsh shampoos because of SD, but I would have loved to CO-wash instead. Can't have it all. Just do what's good for you and your hair. No need to look at anybody else, or need to stretch washes. If you can't, then you can't and that's okay too.

[leilani]

It's true my hair would go for a totally different routine than my scalp. My scalp just has to win though, and luckily my hair is easygoing.