Scabs on head

[Guest Posts]

I get scabs on my head which itch and can be painful as I cannot stop myself scratching them - please can you advise what would be best to do. Thank you - J

[Dr Stephanie Gallard]

J, this might be a condition called scalp folliculitis. Do look at
https://dermnetnz.org/topics/scalp-folliculitis
Some people find using a coal tar shampoo helpful, and if you are having your hair cut at the barbers with clippers it is important to check that the clippers are sanitised properly in between customers.
Other treatments vary, from using an antifungal or medicated shampoo, to using topical antiseptics or antibiotics on the spots themselves to ultimately taking a 3/12 course of antibiotics, which can have an anti-inflammatory action and be very effective long term.
It is worth booking an appt with your GP to discuss these options and allow a physical exam.
I hope this information was helpful to you