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Scalp Hurts When Pressed or Combed – What To Do?

Have you ever woken up one morning and gone to brush or move your hair, only to find that your scalp was in pain? It might be frightening not understanding why and then coping with the pain while attempting to style your hair. So you must be asking ”why does my scalp hurt when I press it?

When you push or comb your scalp, it may ache for a variety of reasons. After you’ve determined what’s causing your scalp discomfort, you may try to relieve it and prevent it from recurring again.

We’re here to assist you figure out what’s causing your scalp pain and give remedies. 

Why Does My Scalp Hurt When I Press Or Comb It? 

reasons why scalp hurt when combed or pressed

Not knowing why your scalp hurts when you press or comb it can feel a little scary. Getting to the root of the problem will help you better when it comes time to help ease the pain. Your scalp pain can be as minor as scalp irritation or something more severe, like a chronic condition. 

The main reasons why your scalp might be hurting when you press or comb it are: 

  • You Wore Your Hair in a Tight Hairstyle: When you put your hair in a ponytail, or bun, or use a clip, if you use the tool too tightly on your hair, it can cause scalp soreness and pain once you take it out and for a period of time afterward. 
  • Sunburn: If you were recently outside and didn’t wear a hat or apply sunscreen to your scalp, you may have a sunburn. This can cause pain and redness on the scalp and is more common than you might think. 
  • Seborrheic or Contact Dermatitis and Folliculitis: These skin conditions are potential causes of scalp pain and irritation. They can cause itchiness, flakiness, and redness. 
  • Ringworm and Scalp Folliculitis: Ringworm is a fungal infection that can be itchy and cause scalp irritation, while scalp folliculitis is an infection of the hair follicles. 
  • Allergies: You might have an allergy or sensitivity to a hair product you’ve been using in your hair that’s causing scalp irritation. If you’ve recently dyed your hair, you may have an allergy to the dye.
  • Harsh Ingredients in Your Products: Even if you aren’t allergic to the ingredients in your hair products or dye, it doesn’t mean they can’t irritate your scalp. Harsh ingredients can irritate the skin and cause redness, pain, and itchiness. 
  • Head Lice: No one likes to think about lice, but if your scalp is hurting and there’s a chance you’ve come in contact with lice, they could be the cause. They bite the scalp, which can cause pain. 

How To Prevent Scalp Pain When Pressed  

Scalp pain can be caused by various factors, including tight hairstyles and scalp inflammation. Here are some tips to prevent scalp pain when pressed. 

By following these tips, you can help prevent scalp pain when pressed and keep your scalp healthy and comfortable. If you continue to experience scalp pain or discomfort, be sure to consult with a dermatologist or hair care professional for further advice.

Avoid Tight Hairstyles

Tight hairstyles such as braids, buns, and ponytails can put pressure on your scalp and cause pain. To prevent this, opt for looser hairstyles that don’t pull on your hair.

Massage Your Scalp

How To Prevent Scalp Pain When Pressed - Scalp Massage

Gently massaging your scalp can help increase blood flow and reduce scalp pain. Use your fingertips to massage your scalp in circular motions for a few minutes each day.

Use a Soothing Scalp Treatment

Applying a soothing scalp treatment can help reduce inflammation and relieve scalp pain. Look for products that contain ingredients such as tea tree oil or aloe vera, which can help soothe the scalp.

Use a Wide-Tooth Comb

How To Prevent Scalp Pain When Pressed - Wide Tooth Comb

Using a wide-tooth comb can help prevent hair breakage and reduce scalp pain. Start at the ends of your hair and work your way up to the roots, being gentle and avoiding tugging on your hair.

Avoid Chemical Treatments

Chemical treatments such as relaxers, perms, and hair dyes can cause scalp inflammation and pain. If you must use these treatments, be sure to follow the instructions carefully and avoid leaving the products on for too long.

So, What Do You Do If Your Scalp Hurts When Pressed or Combed?

When your scalp hurts when you press or comb it, it’s not something you need to panic over. While it’s not ideal, the reason for your scalp hurting could be as simple as you wore a tight hairstyle or you’re allergic to one of your hair products. 

Even if you believe you have a skin condition, ringworm, or are dealing with a lice infestation, those are easy to treat and get your scalp feeling as good as new. The key to preventing scalp pain is to take good care of your scalp and seek medical attention if necessary. 

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W. Anthony

Meet Watson Anthony, a skilled and experienced barber based in Alaska. As the go-to stylist at Northern Lights Barber Shop, Watson has built a loyal following among the local community, thanks to his unique and creative approach to haircuts.