Many people have red spots on the scalp. Red patches are not an independent clinical picture, but only a symptom. There are a multitude of possibilities, which causes these red spots.
One of the most common causes is seborrheic dermatitis, an itchy skin disease caused by an overly oily scalp due to increased sebum production. Just as often, the red spots can be a sign of fungal infection of the scalp, especially in summer, when one sweats a lot and is exposed to a humid and warm climate. In addition to the red spots, white dandruff usually appears, which comes off when the scalp is dry and becomes visible in the hair and on clothing.
Not only fungi, but also infections with viruses or bacteria can lead to red spots on the scalp. In children, red spots on the scalp should be considered in connection with typical childhood diseases such as chickenpox, measles or rubella. Many of these diseases are contagious, so if you suspect a childhood disease, you should consult a doctor immediately and avoid kindergarten or school.
However, other partly chronic diseases, such as psoriasis, can also lead to red spots on the scalp. If red spots appear on the scalp in the absence of other diseases, it may also be an allergic reaction to a shampoo or something similar. Physical or psychological stress can also lead to such skin reactions.
In some cases, acne also causes the pimples to spread to the scalp. Due to the variety of causes for red spots on the scalp, a doctor should be consulted if they do not improve after a few days or if severe itching, pain or other additional symptoms occur. Usually, this is a harmless cause, but serious triggers for the red spots on the scalp are also possible.
Red spots and itching
Red spots on the scalp accompanied by itching can be very annoying. There are many causes that can lead to itching of the scalp. Parasite infestation (e.g. by head lice), fungal infections, frequent hair washing, hair spray or hair gel, allergic reactions or stress can cause both severe itching and red spots on the scalp.
The itching is caused by certain messenger substances (e.g. histamine), which are released in the skin and send a signal to the brain, where the itching is perceived. Typically one reacts by scratching, but this can cause damage to the skin and intensify the symptoms. Head lice or other parasites also sometimes cause severe itching due to the tiny injuries caused by blood sucking and the subsequent immune response to the animals’ saliva.
At the same time, the parasites cause small, very itchy, reddish spots on the scalp. Seborrheic eczema can be another cause of red spots on the scalp and itching. Seborrheic eczema occurs mainly on skin areas with many sebaceous glands, such as the scalp.
Typical are red, roundish spots with yellowish scaling and pronounced itching. It is assumed that the disease is based on a family history. If external factors such as stress and climate change are added, the eczema breaks out and causes the red spots described.
An allergic reaction can also lead to itching of the head. Many hair care products contain fragrances or preservatives. Sensitive people can react allergic to these ingredients.
Red spots and a persistent itchiness form on the scalp, especially after washing the hair. If you suspect this, even a change of shampoo can help. Nowadays, there are numerous low-scented hair care products available that are especially suitable for sensitive scalps.
Red spots on the scalp are a symptom of a variety of skin diseases. Allergic reactions, genetic or hormonal factors can play a role. The most typical skin disease is acne, which causes pimples and red nodules that can also appear on the scalp.
Furthermore, neurodermatitis is also a widespread, chronic disease. The scalp is often dry and flaky, and it can cause severe itching.Psoriasis leads to inflamed, red plates on the skin, which are covered with white scales and can also be very itchy. An allergic reaction to medication or food can lead to so-called hives.
Heavily itching wheals form on the skin, which can also be triggered by pressure, heat or cold. Red spots on the scalp are often caused by an infection with a skin fungus. This often leads to visible dandruff and itching of the scalp.
But also parasites like mites can cause red spots on the scalp. The so-called scabies is widespread, which produces a very itchy rash and is highly contagious. It can also be head lice, clothes lice or crabs, which cause the red spots on the scalp.
In addition to skin diseases, infectious diseases such as shingles, whistling glandular fever, syphilis or hepatitis can also cause red spots on the scalp, but the diseases can also occur without a rash. You can find more information on this topic at: Is my rash contagious? Another skin disease that focuses on the face and scalp is called seborrheic eczema or seborrheic dermatitis.
This is a condition that causes red spots with blisters that burst open and can lead to scabs and dandruff. In infants, seborrheic dermatitis is often confused with the so-called milk crust. The disease is probably caused by genetic factors.
However, the accompanying symptoms such as severe itching can be treated with suitable methods. More information on this topic: Burning scalpSmall red spots on the scalp, neck or behind the ear can be an indication of head lice. They are caused by the smallest bites of the lice and cause severe itching.
Especially behind the ears (retroauricular) the red spots often become visible first. Scratching the scalp can make the red spots even more intense. Sometimes, however, the smallest injuries occur in this way, which can serve as an entry point for bacteria.
On the other hand, lice can also colonize our scalp almost unnoticed. The little animals only become visible when you take a closer look or visit the hairdresser. It is unpleasant, but important in the treatment of lice infestation to comb out the hair with a nit comb. The lice and their eggs (nits) get caught in the fine prongs. It is also recommended to use a special shampoo.
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