Have you ever gone for a run or to the gym and felt an intense itch on your head? Or, have you woken up after a night of sweating to find your pillow covered in scratches? If so, you're not alone—many people report experiencing itchiness after workouts.
So, why does this happen? It's likely due to a combination of factors, including sweat, heat, and friction. When you work out, you sweat—and not just from your forehead. In fact, you likely sweat all over your body, including your scalp. As your body temperature rises and you start to perspire, that sweat can cause irritation, leading to an itchy feeling.
Additionally, working out often takes place in warm or hot environments. This increase in temperature can also lead to itchiness. And finally, as you move around during your workout, you may inadvertently rub your skin—including your scalp—the wrong way, which can also cause irritation and lead to an itchy feeling.
If you're experiencing an itchy scalp after workouts, there are a few things you can do to help ease the discomfort. First, try shampooing more frequently. This will help to remove sweat and other irritants from your hair and scalp. You can also try using a dandruff shampoo or one that contains coal tar or selenium sulfide, which can help to soothe itchiness.
If shampooing more frequently doesn't help, you may need to see a doctor. In some cases, itchiness after workouts may be due to an underlying condition such as seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis. A doctor can help to diagnose the cause of your itchiness and recommend the best course of treatment.
- Allergic reactions. If you're allergic to your workout gear or the products you use to clean it, that could definitely cause an itchy scalp. Try switching to hypoallergenic gear and see if that helps.
- Fungal infections. If you don't clean your gear properly, it can become a breeding ground for fungi. As these grow, they can cause an itchy scalp. Be sure to clean your gear regularly with an anti-fungal cleaner.
- Dry skin. When you sweat, it can strip your skin of natural oils, causing dryness and itchiness. Be sure to drink plenty of water and use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to help combat dryness.
If you're dealing with an itchy scalp, try these tips and see if they help!