An itchy scalp may seem harmless, but when it persists it can disrupt sleep, daily life, and confidence. The scalp is highly sensitive, packed with oil glands and nerve endings, so irritation can stem from many causes — and what’s mild for one person can be intense for another.
Common reasons include dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, or contact dermatitis from hair products. Allergies, infections, and even stress can also play a role. Dermatologists advise not to ignore ongoing itchiness, especially if it comes with redness, flakes, sores, or hair loss, since treating the root cause — not just the itch — is key to lasting relief.