Scabs on scalp. Best treatment?

[PurpleBadger]

I remember when I was little I had a cream for some scabs on my scalp for a while. I think it was incase it was ezcema. My mum has psoriasis and she thought it might be that.

It never bothered me until a few years ago, when scabs came back. They are mostly light, and flakey, so flakes come off like dandruff. Even if I spend months not itching them, there are still some there. Sometimes, it's better than others and clears up. But it seems to be a constant problem, because, if I get rid of one patch there's just another somewhere else.

They are not really itchy unless I think about them, even then It's overcomeable. Not like how a rash might itch.

I also have dyed my hair a few times and used bleach. So, when I got some scabs I thought it was from the bleach and waited till they went. As soon as they had gone - more came, near my roots where there wasn't even any bleach anymore.

Does anyone get this? What would be the best shampoo or home remedy? Is it dandruff or...? I'm confused.

[PurpleBadger]

Thank you. : ) Do you know any brand names of shampoo or should I just look at the ingridients?

I've heard of a shampoo like tar... That sounds pleasent. :P

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the symptoms it can be seborrheic dermatitis. Seborrheic dermatitis is a common skin condition that causes flaky, dry, white to yellowish scales to form on oily areas esp under the nose or anywhere on face and scalp . You can treat flaking and dryness with over-the-counter dandruff or medicated shampoos. Shampoo the hair vigorously and frequently (preferably daily). Active ingredients in these shampoos include salicylic acid, coal tar, zinc, resorcin, ketoconazole, or selenium.

If the symptoms persist, then it would be best to get it confirmed from a dermatologist. It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.