The treatment
Neurodermatitis of the scalp requires in principle the same treatment as neurodermatitis in other areas. However, due to the localization on the hairy scalp, the care is more difficult, because for example, highly greasy creams lead to greasy, unkempt looking hair, which then quickly becomes an aesthetic problem. For this reason, shampoos are of great importance in the treatment of neurodermatitis of the scalp.
Only shampoos that provide sufficient moisture and thus protect the skin from drying out should be used. As a rule, products with silicones or fragrances should not be used, as these have an additional irritating effect on the already damaged scalp. Shampoos containing urea are recommended.
Urea has moisture-binding properties and thus ensures optimal moisture regulation of the scalp. Shampoos containing linoleic acid are also available on the market. Linoleic acid is one of the unsaturated fatty acids and stabilizes the skin barrier, thus reducing moisture loss.
In addition, there are special tonics that are not rinsed out again – like a shampoo – but remain on the scalp and serve as care products. Here too, urea is one of the most important ingredients. The Eucerin® and Linola® brands, for example, carry products that specialize in hair care for dry, flaky scalps.
Special moisturizing shampoos and care products can be used to control itching in the scalp area. In addition, too hot water temperatures, blow-drying the hair and washing the hair too often should be avoided. All this counteracts drying out of the scalp and thereby relieves itching in the long term.
In the case of neurodermatitis in the scalp area, the same applies to cortisone treatment as for neurodermatitis of a different localization: In the case of an acute neurodermatitis episode with highly red, partially weeping, strongly itching eczema, cortisone therapy is usually unavoidable.In the scalp area, however, different preparations are usually used than in other parts of the body, because when using conventional ointments, a clear film of fat would disturb the aesthetics in the hairy scalp area. Therefore, solutions or emulsions are usually used. For neurodermatitis in the scalp area, shampoos containing urea have proven to be particularly effective.
Urea binds moisture and thus ensures a more balanced moisture regulation in the scalp area. Shampoos containing linoleic acid also have a positive effect. They stabilize the skin barrier and thus counteract the scalp’s loss of moisture. Brands specializing in problem scalps for neurodermatitis include Eucerin® and Linola®.
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