why do my hair follicles hurt

Exercise Daily – The scalp shields the head, and the hair aids in the conservation of heat. However, because of the large number of hair follicles on the scalp, the area is more susceptible to infections. You might often think why do my hair follicles hurt? These infections might cause discomfort.

When the hair moves, some individuals may suffer discomfort in the affected region. In certain circumstances, the discomfort may last for many days or even weeks at a time.

There are several therapy methods available for a sore scalp, and the most effective one will depend on the underlying reason. In certain cases, home treatments are sufficient to resolve the issue. It may be important to see the doctor in some instances, though.

A painful scalp that happens when the hair moves will be discussed in this article, as will the reasons and remedies related to this condition.

Why Do My Hair Follicles Hurt?

A hurting scalp is a regular occurrence. In fact, according to a 2012 report, 44 percent of individuals in France suffer from scalp sensitivity.

why do my hair follicles hurt

Painful scalp when the hair moves may be caused by a variety of factors – ranging from hairstyling decisions to underlying health concerns. Even simple tasks such as changing one’s hair might create discomfort in the scalp.

When you’re moving your hair, you may experience the following symptoms:

  • Itching
  • Aching
  • Tingling
  • Burning

Basically, it is the sensation of having your hair combed or brushed violently, similar to a scraping or tugging sensation. Due to the fact that moving your hair causes pain, it’s only natural for many people to presume that your hair is also experiencing discomfort.

However, hair strands do not have any nerve endings. It follows that when you tug, pull or even softly stimulate the hair strands, it is the scalp that suffers discomfort.

Scalp discomfort that occurs when you move your hair may be a sign of a number of different medical disorders. These include the following:

  • Headaches
  • Allergies 
  • Eczema
  • Psoriasis of the scalp
  • Dandruff

The following are some of the disorders that might cause scalp pain:

Traction alopecia

why do my hair follicles hurt

Having your hair pushed firmly back might cause alopecia. It is hair loss that develops as a result of doing so. People who style their hair in braids, ponytails, cornrows, or weaves, for example, are at risk of developing traction alopecia.

They might often complain that why do my hair follicles hurt. 

The disease is more frequent among African American women and those who have tight haircuts for jobs or recreational activities. Tenderness and stinging of the scalp are common symptoms of traction alopecia.

Scalp psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune illness that causes new skin cells to develop before the body can shed the old ones. This results in a buildup of skin cells. Patches of skin develop as a result of the accumulation of new cells.

These spots may appear anywhere on the body and are not contagious. It is estimated that around 50% of persons with psoriasis may develop plaques on their scalps, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

why do my hair follicles hurt

Scalp psoriasis is characterized by the presence of discolored patches, scales, or flaking on the head’s scalp. The areas are very irritating and might become severe if they are scratched. 

Scratching the patches may make them worse, cause bleeding, and even cause hair loss if done repeatedly.

Seborrheic dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a kind of eczema that develops in regions of oily skin and may be very painful. Because of the oil produced by the hair follicles, the scalp is particularly susceptible to seborrheic dermatitis.

why do my hair follicles hurt

Adults between the ages of 30 and 60 are at risk for developing this illness. And, they might begin to wonder why do my hair follicles hurt.

Folliculitis

Folliculitis is most often caused by bacteria, yeast, or dust mites, among other things. When a person suffers from folliculitis, the hair follicles in their scalp become irritated.

why do my hair follicles hurt

This results in the development of tiny, itchy, and discolored pimples all over the skin. These lumps may become crusty and unpleasant if not treated promptly.

Allodynia

It is a disorder that generates aberrant pain responses, including a sensation of discomfort when the hair moves.

Allodynia may be caused by a variety of medical diseases, including fibromyalgia, trigeminal neuralgia, and diabetic neuropathy, among others.

The following are reliable causes of scalp discomfort as the hair moves:

  • A response to hair products such as shampoos, conditioners
  • Heat
  • Hairbrushes and other styling tools
  • Stress

Treatment of Scalp Discomfort

The treatment options available for scalp discomfort are mainly depending on the underlying reason. If you have discomfort when you touch or move your hair on a daily basis, you’ll most likely need the assistance of a dermatologist to figure out what’s causing the problem.

In the case of an allergic response

It’s possible that sudden, severe scalp discomfort without any other symptoms is the consequence of an allergic response. It’s especially a reaction to a new hair care product.

Giving your hair a break from new products for a day or two, and rinsing your scalp with cold water instead of using harsh washes, maybe the first line of defense. This is the first thing you do after why do my hair follicles hurt – hits your mind.

It is best not to use essential oils or any other product intended to treat hair and the scalp until you are certain that an allergic reaction has gone.

For the treatment of eczema or psoriasis

You may try gently brushing your scalp with a soft-bristled brush after it has dried. Choose your brush wisely if your scalp looks to be flaking or peeling at the edges.

In the event that scales or flakes begin to fall out of your hair, this might be your first sign that you have eczema, psoriasis, or seborrheic dermatitis on your scalp.

In the case of a headache

When you have scalp discomfort while suffering from a headache, it is possible that the two disorders are connected. The use of over-the-counter pain medicine, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, may be helpful in alleviating your symptoms.

For the treatment of folliculitis

Hair follicle infection or inflammation is referred to as folliculitis in medical terms. It is occasionally necessary to use an antibacterial cleaner or antibiotic to get rid of the illness.

It may be necessary for your doctor to get a bacterial culture from a pustule in order to confirm the diagnosis. This will also assist them in prescribing the most appropriate medication after you ask them why do my hair follicles hurt.

What you can do to avoid scalp discomfort?

why do my hair follicles hurt

It might be difficult to predict what will cause scalp discomfort before it happens. The following steps may be taken after you’ve had this symptom to lessen the amount of discomfort you experience:

  • Treatment for any skin problem, such as eczema or psoriasis, should be sought even if the condition does not often affect your scalp.
  • Pay close attention to product labels to prevent causing adverse reactions on your hair and scalp.
  • Gently brush your hair and wash it every other day with lukewarm, cleaning water to keep it looking its best.
  • Avoid using sticky, adhesive-based hair products that include alcohol since they may dehydrate your hair and cause it to become frizzy. Numerous gels and hair sprays are examples of this kind of product.
  • Maintain the health of your hair and scalp by following the hair hygiene recommendations provided by the American Academy of Dermatologists (AAD).

Products to Use When Hair Follicles Hurt

Use a Mild Shampoo

Constant scrubbing dries out the scalp and may even result in a flaking condition such as seborrheic dermatitis. It is a persistent state of inflammation that manifests itself as flaking. It is recommended that you use mild baby shampoo if you only wash your hair every day.

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Use Soft Hairbrush

Asking yourself, why do my hair follicles hurt? Try a better brush!

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When you use a brush with soft bristles, you may notice that your thin or fine hair performs better and breaks less. You may also notice that the brush is more pleasant to use on your scalp. It is possible to have less tugging and snagging on the scalp.

Try a Dry Scalp Treatment

Argan oil, as well as other antioxidants such as vitamin E and fatty acids, are excellent for hydrating a dry scalp. They hydrate the scalp while simultaneously repairing the scalp barrier.

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Use Silk Bonnet

The silk bonnet helps hair dry without removing excess moisture. This prevents your scalp and hair follicles from excessive drying. In this way, the hydration will keep your hair and follicles nourished.

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Try Silk Scrunchies 

The ordinary pony that you use for your hair might pull them too hard. This can cause your hair follicles to hurt. Try a silk scrunchie and don’t overtighten it. In this way, you may prevent your follicles from hurting. 

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When should you see the doctor?

You should schedule an appointment with a dermatologist if you have frequent soreness on your scalp. If you see any of the following symptoms on your scalp, you should consult your doctor:

  • Scaly spots on the skin
  • Breakouts
  • Bruising and bleeding places

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it normal for hair follicles to hurt?

A hurting scalp is a regular occurrence. A report suggested that 44 percent of persons in France had scalp sensitivity – came asking why do my hair follicles hurt.. Painful scalp when the hair moves may be caused by a variety of factors ranging from hairstyling decisions to underlying health concerns. 

Why the roots of my hair hurts?

Despite the fact that your hair shaft is devoid of blood cells and nerves, the roots of your hair follicles contain a large number of tiny nerve endings that are highly sensitive. As a consequence, your scalp is more vulnerable to discomfort.

How do you treat sensitive hair follicles?

Replace your shampoo with a gentler one, rinse your hair more thoroughly, and brush your hair softly. Ibuprofen or similar over-the-counter medications may be used to alleviate inflammation or headaches that are causing sensitivity in certain people.

Why does scalp hurt when hair is dirty?

You may notice an increase in the amount of oil and dead skin cells that accumulate around the hair shaft if you go too long without washing it. While a little amount of oil might be healthy to your hair, excessive amounts of oil can smother the hair root and cause irritation to occur.

Why do I get sore spots on my scalp?

The infection is caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi that enter the hair follicle and cause it to become inflamed. You might begin to think why do my hair follicles hurt. 

It may seem and feel like a pimple, a painful red lump with or without a white head, or it may be something else entirely. These lesions may also be crusty and scabby in appearance. The sore usually heals on its own without the need for therapy.

Take Away

When you move your hair, it’s not unusual to have scalp discomfort. There are a variety of potential reasons. Some of the reasons are transient and do not need medical intervention, but a large number of them do.

You may be suffering from an infection or a persistent skin disease if you are experiencing painful scalp itching, scaling, and burning. In certain cases, these symptoms might also be associated with other conditions, such as hair loss disorders or thyroid abnormalities.

If you’re experiencing persistent discomfort in your scalp, you should consult with your physician.