Scalp inflammation can be a pesky problem. It can be caused by a variety of things, including dandruff, psoriasis, and even tight hairstyles. Inflammation can lead to itchiness, redness, and flakiness. If you're dealing with scalp inflammation, you might be wondering if there's anything you can do to get relief.
One option is to try using an over-the-counter medication like naproxen. Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It's the active ingredient in popular medications like Aleve and Midol. NSAIDs work by reducing inflammation.
There's some evidence that naproxen may help with scalp inflammation. A small study found that a gel containing naproxen was effective in treating dandruff. And a review of studies concluded that NSAIDs like naproxen may be helpful in treating scalp conditions like psoriasis.
If you're interested in trying naproxen for your scalp inflammation, you can buy it over the counter at your local pharmacy. Be sure to follow the directions on the package. You should also talk to your doctor before taking any medication, even over-the-counter ones. This is especially important if you have any underlying health conditions or take other medications.
Seborrheic dermatitis is thought to be caused by an overgrowth of the Malassezia yeast on the skin. This yeast is a normal part of the skin flora, but it can proliferate and cause symptoms in people who are predisposed to it. Naproxen is an NSAID that can help to reduce inflammation and itchiness. A small study found that naproxen was effective in reducing symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis, but larger studies are needed to confirm these findings.
If you think you may have seborrheic dermatitis, it's important to see a doctor or dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment. In some cases, over-the-counter antifungal medications may be all that's needed to control the yeast and reduce symptoms. However, if your symptoms are severe or not responding to antifungals, naproxen may be worth trying as well. Be sure to talk to your doctor before taking any medication, as naproxen can cause side effects like stomach upset and bleeding.