Credit: iStock.com/Manuel Faba Ortega
From time to time, we all have had an itchy forehead, which usually has been relieved by a few attempts of scratching or rubbing. But, what if simple scratching doesn’t resolve the sensation, and the itchiness continues and possibly becomes worse? There may even be the appearance of a red rash consisting of tiny bumps. This may be an indication of a more serious nature that requires attention.
An itchy forehead may be linked to cell damage, irritation, or the result of a physical or psychological disorder or disease. Learn the underlying causes, as well as the signs and symptoms to watch for with an itchy forehead. By knowing the cause of the condition, you may be able to use our natural treatment options for a soothing end to your discomfort.
Itchy Forehead Causes
Your itchy forehead is most likely caused by a skin condition. Most cases are accompanied by a form of a rash or other symptom. We will discuss the various skin conditions and other health issues that can cause the forehead itch or an itchy forehead rash.
1. Allergies
An allergic reaction to an internal or external factor may cause a forehead itch. There are various skin conditions that have an itchy forehead as the main symptom.
A medical condition called atopic dermatitis (also known as eczema) presents dry, itchy skin, and usually begins in childhood. In addition to the red and cracked skin, health conditions like asthma and allergic rhinitis have a link to the skin disorder.
Allergic contact dermatitis is another common skin condition with an itchy forehead. It is the result of skin coming into contact with an allergen.
2. Irritants
Like allergic contact dermatitis, irritants such as soap, skin and hair care products, makeup, sweat, and even treated water can cause an itchy forehead. Continuing to use such products may cause irritant contact dermatitis to develop. However, hypersensitivity does not cause this skin condition.
Unclean hair touching the forehead may also cause an itchy forehead.
3. Hair and Hair Products
As mentioned, dirty hair can irritate the skin on the forehead and cause it to itch. Oil, environmental dust, and hair product buildup can all collect on the hair follicles. The use of hair sprays, hair dyes, and chemicals from straighteners and perms may also irritate not only the forehead but the entire scalp.
4. Headwear
What you wear on your head can also have an impact on your forehead. Irritant contact dermatitis can result due to the tightness or type of material of the hat, headband, head scarf, helmet, or veil you are wearing.
A head covering can also generate heat around your head, which may cause sweat to appear. Both factors can lead to an itchy forehead.
5. Acne
Itchy forehead acne can also cause a problem. It may appear with an outbreak of scalp acne or acne on the face. Although it is a common problem during adolescence, acne on the forehead can occur anytime during adulthood as well.
Acne is the result of follicles becoming blocked by dirt and debris, leading to inflammation. An overactive oil gland can also promote acne.
6. Sunburn
The powerful rays of the sun and other ultraviolet light sources may lead to an itchy forehead due to a sunburn or heat on your head. The annoying itch can be present with or without the swelling and redness of a sunburn.
Your skin cells can also become damaged using a tanning booth or bed.
7. Wounds
Itchiness is often a symptom of an open wound that is beginning to heal. Protective coverings like an adhesive bandage or gauze may also cause an itchy forehead with a wound.
8. Psychogenic Disorders
Some cases of an itchy forehead can be the result of a psychological condition rather than a physical one. It may the cause of stress, anxiety, or nervousness.
9. Chronic Skin Diseases
Chronic skin conditions may have itchy forehead as a symptom or by-product, with or without a rash. Common associations include head lice, chickenpox, shingles, liver disease, ringworm, scabies, psoriasis, neurodermatitis, and hives.
How to Get Rid of an Itchy Forehead
If you know the cause of your dry, itchy skin on the forehead, you will be able to choose the appropriate treatment. We have found several natural home remedies and tips to help treat and prevent the development of an itchy forehead.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apply apple cider vinegar directly to the itchy area of the forehead. After a few minutes, rinse it off with cool water. It has anti-itching, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiseptic components to combat a dry itch.
2. Lemon
Lemons have citric and acetic acids with anti-irritating and antiseptic components to calm an itchy forehead.
Pat the forehead with a slice of lemon or a cotton ball soaked in fresh lemon juice. Be sure not to expose the forehead to natural sunlight up to two hours after using lemon to avoid irritation and sunburn.
3. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Protect your forehead from the harsh chemicals in hair dyes and shampoos as they may irritate that region. Immediately stop using any facial skin products such as lotions or makeup if you feel an itching sensation.
4. Aloe Vera
Gently spread aloe vera gel on the forehead to soothe the itch and any existing burns and redness.
5. Antibacterial Soap
Wash the affected area using a mild antibacterial soap and gently rinse with cool water. Avoid harsh fragrances in soaps and lotions that may cause an itchy forehead. Always pat dry thoroughly.
6. Sunscreen
Use a sunscreen with a high SPF when outdoors, especially in bright sunlight. The lotion may treat any itchiness and prevent the skin cells from being damaged.
7. Avoid Styling Tools
The heat from styling devices may stimulate an itchy forehead. Do not use a hair dryer, hair straightener, or curling iron too close to the forehead.
Also, avoid sharing hair care devices with others such as brushes, combs, and heat devices. These may have been exposed to hair issues such as head lice, scabies, or fungal infections.
8. Wash Headgear
Regularly wash any headgear such as headbands, hats, and sleep masks. For headgear devices that cannot be washed such as helmets, expose the inside of the helmet to sunlight. Also, use headgear sparingly, and avoid wearing them for long periods.
An itchy forehead can be embarrassing as much as it is annoying for the person experiencing it. Both internal health conditions and external factors, such as skin care products, can be to blame for a dry, itchy forehead. There may or may not be a red rash with the itchiness.
Whether the itch begins due to a skin irritant or a healing wound, there may be natural products you can use to treat the itch. You can also prevent some cases by following a few simple tips, such as avoiding the use of harsh chemicals and heat near the forehead.
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Sources:
“Causes of Itchy Forehead & Way to Get Rid of it,” ePain Assist, July 13, 2017; https://www.epainassist.com/skin/causes-of-itchy-forehead-and-way-to-get-rid-of-it, last accessed August 3, 2017.
“Itchy Forehead Causes, Pictures and Remedies,” Healthhype; http://www.healthhype.com/itchy-forehead-causes-pictures-and-remedies.html, last accessed August 3, 2017.