Find out how to make the odor go away
A healthy scalp typically has no noticeable smell.
Some issueslike poor hygieneare fairly easy to address on your own.
Otherslike fungal growth or psoriasisrequire medical treatment.
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This article will discuss several medical and non-medical causes of smelly scalp and how to treat them.
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What Is Smelly Scalp?
Smelly scalp and “smelly scalp syndrome” are not official medical terms.
People have described a smelly scalp as having a sour smell, similar to milk or cheese.
If you work around chemicals or smoke, your hair and scalp might take on those scents.
It causes red, scaly patches of dry, flaky skin to appear on the body.
Sometimes these patches can have an odor to them, especially as the dead skin builds up.
About half of people with psoriasis experience outbreaks on theirscalp, which can lead to an unpleasant odor.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitisis a chronic skin rash that can appear on the scalp and elsewhere on the body.
In infants, this rash is known as cradle cap.
Dandruff
Similar to seborrheic dermatitis,dandruffis a skin condition that causes itching or flaking.
In some people, dandruff may be accompanied by an odor.
Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosisis a medical condition characterized by excessive sweating.
(It is not the same as getting sweaty after a tough workout.)
Some women may also notice body odor changes when theyre pregnant or menstruating.
This community is known as your scalp microbiome.
When these organisms are in balance, they contribute to the healthy functioning of your scalp.
Tinea Capitis
Tinea capitisis a fungal infection that affects the scalp.
Common symptoms include dry and scaly areas of skin, itch, redness, and hair loss.
In some cases, it may be associated with an unpleasant odor.
Diet:Some people may experience body odorincluding a smelly scalpif they eat certain foods.
Common culprits include onions, garlic, and certain spices.
The same is true if you work around potent-smelling chemicals.
Treating Smelly Scalp
Treating smelly scalp depends on what’s causing the odor.
Home Remedies
Experimenting with various home remedies might help you get your smelly scalp under control.
These can help heal the skin conditions on your scalp, which can lead to less odor.
The following medications are commonly used to treat scalp conditions.
Once the underlying condition is determined, your smelly scalp can be treated appropriately.
National Psoriasis Foundation.Scalp psoriasis.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Seborrheic dermatitis.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.How to treat dandruff.
Saxena, Rituja.Longitudinal study of the scalp microbiome suggests coconut oil to enrich healthy scalp commensals.Scientific Reports.
March 31, 2021. doi:10.1038/s41598-021-86454-1
Treat JR.Tinea capitis.
Martini N.Apple cider vinegar.J Prim Health Care.
American Osteopathic College of Dermatology.Calcipotriene.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.10 reasons your scalp itches and how to get relief.
