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How do I Treat Scalp Sores?

Patti Kate
Patti Kate

Scalp sores can be treated with over-the-counter preparations or prescription medications. Special soaps designed to heal and soothe scalp sores and scalp lesions are another form of treatment. Determining the best treatment depends upon the type of sores you have and what has caused them.

If your sores are caused by psoriasis, there are scalp treatments and shampoos to help promote healing. In severe cases, your doctor may give you a prescription. If you suffer from dandruff or dry scalp and are prone to itchy sores, you may benefit from using a specially formulated shampoo with gentle moisturizers and natural oils.

Prescription medication may be required to treat scalp sores.
Prescription medication may be required to treat scalp sores.

Whatever products you choose, there are a few simple measures to take to prevent the sores from becoming infected or bleeding. No matter how much your scalp may itch, resist the temptation to scratch. Your fingernails may cause further irritation or bleeding and open a wound that could be prone to infection.

If you believe the irritation on your scalp is due to a reaction of chemicals in your current shampoo, you may want to seek a more natural alternative. Baby shampoos are generally gentle and non irritating. If your sores are caused by an itchy rash, you can try an all natural product to provide soothing relief. Aloe vera gel can be applied directly to the scalp or mixed in with your shampoo.

Aloe vera gel is sometimes used to speed wound healing and moisturize, so it may help people with scalp sores.
Aloe vera gel is sometimes used to speed wound healing and moisturize, so it may help people with scalp sores.

Another home remedy for scalp sores is mixing a small amount of apple cider vinegar with some warm water and applying the mixture directly to the sores. You may find this helps control flakiness and itch as well. Be sure to rinse well after treatment.

Oatmeal is also great for dry skin and sores on the scalp. You may find this in an oatmeal-based shampoo or you can make your own oatmeal paste yourself. If you wish, mix in a teaspoon of natural tea tree oil for added relief. Alternately, you might try an all-natural oatmeal soap.

Apple cider vinegar mixed with warm water can soothe sores.
Apple cider vinegar mixed with warm water can soothe sores.

Check for products at the pharmacy or natural vitamin store. There are several products on the market formulated to treat scalp sores and often a knowledgeable sales clerk can help you find a solution. When choosing a shampoo, look for ingredients that are organically based and ones that contain vitamin E as well as zinc.

If you suspect you may have a scalp infection caused by fungus or bacteria, it is a good idea to seek the advice and treatment from a dermatologist. You may need a prescription medication or topical cream to help you heal faster. Fungal shampoos can be found at most pharmacies, however.

Discussion Comments

anon967171

I was plagued with persistent sores, red pimples and dryness on my scalp. I used apple cider vinegar and everything practically healed within 48 hours. just poured it on my scalp to wet the scalp area and allowed it to sit for a few minutes. Amazing. Even my hair feels soft. I have no more itching, burning or inflammation. The red sores vanished too.

donasmrs

I've been suffering from dry scalp sores due to psoriasis for a while now. The only things that seem to help are organic shampoo without sulfates and jojoba oil as a moisturizer.

ZipLine

@ddljohn-- Tea tree oil, lavender oil and castor oil all have anti-fungal properties. You might want to try these, but make sure to dilute them first.

Also, were you ever put on oral anti-fungal medications? For severe fungal infections, topical treatments are usually not enough and oral medications are necessary. There is a possibility that the fungi is resistant to the oral medications as well though. Plus, oral anti-fungals are very tough on the liver and should not be used for a long time.

Try the natural oils first and see if it helps with the sores in your scalp.

ddljohn

I have a ringworm infection on my scalp. I have red, itchy sores on my scalp. My doctor gave me a medicated shampoo and a topical cream which seemed to help for a few days, but then the symptoms came back, worse then ever. I think the ringworm has developed resistance to the medications.

Are there any remedies for scalp ringworm? Please let me know if you know of any. I want this treated as soon as possible.

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    • Prescription medication may be required to treat scalp sores.
      By: studiopure
      Prescription medication may be required to treat scalp sores.
    • Aloe vera gel is sometimes used to speed wound healing and moisturize, so it may help people with scalp sores.
      By: cedrov
      Aloe vera gel is sometimes used to speed wound healing and moisturize, so it may help people with scalp sores.
    • Apple cider vinegar mixed with warm water can soothe sores.
      By: Comugnero Silvana
      Apple cider vinegar mixed with warm water can soothe sores.
    • A pharmacy or sales clerk might help find the right product to treat scalp sores.
      By: Robert Kneschke
      A pharmacy or sales clerk might help find the right product to treat scalp sores.
    • Certain shampoos can treat scalp sores.
      By: EuToch
      Certain shampoos can treat scalp sores.
    • Oatmeal helps heal dry skin.
      By: Timmary
      Oatmeal helps heal dry skin.
    • Those who suffer from dandruff or a dry scalp may benefit from specially formulated shampoos.
      Those who suffer from dandruff or a dry scalp may benefit from specially formulated shampoos.
    • Scalp sores may produce unsightly flakes.
      By: Jasmin Merdan
      Scalp sores may produce unsightly flakes.