The scalp, like the rest of the skin may be affected by atopic dermatitis. In this case, the condition can be even more contentious than the skin on other parts of the body, since it has the highest concentration of nerve endings (up to 600/cm2) and can exacerbate the sensitivity and reactions of people who suffer from it.
Furthermore, there is a problem associated with atopic scalp: dryness. For the scalp atopic skin condition is often accompanied by a tendency to dryness. This causes the thinning of the skin layers forming a decreasing resistance to the penetration of exogenous agents, resulting in a reduced protection against irritation and external damage.
Tips for care
The symptoms are the same as in the body’s skin: itching, dry skin, swelling and redness. It has to be specified that unlike what can happen in early childhood, adults usually don’t observe erythema or rash on the scalp. Itching and/or stinging may become unbearable compared to those produced by body eczema due to the higher sensitivity of the area.
For hygiene and care of atopic scalp is very important to use a shampoo that does not alter the physiological pH, being especially soft and which doesn’t dry. Improper shampoo can worsen atopic skin condition or trigger an outbreak
The formulation of a suitable shampoo for atopic scalp should seek among other objectives: to reduce flaking, relieve itching, soften the skin and, insofar as possible to act as an emollient and moisturizing agent.
