Today, I just want to post about thoughts running through my head, triggered by a comment, left by a scalp scab suffer by the name of ” Beautifhair”.
Beautifulhair, left a truly touching story on her years of struggle, with the confession of being a “closet picker”, and it’s impact within her personal life. Her heartfelt story can be read here, midway down in the comment section.
This blog came about, because of my own struggle in the past with this condition. I say, “the past” as of this time in my life, things have been just fine, my scalp has recovered from years of abuse, by uncontrollable scratching, leaving it a scabby mess.
Never the less, I do have to stay alert, employ preventable measures, to anything that may induce a flare up. Every once in a while it will happen.
In a way, I feel like a prisoner to this nasty condition, if it’s not an outbreak , it’s constantly being on guard, worrying, waiting, if or when.
Is this the same feeling that a recovering alcoholic or substance abuser has? A monkey on their back, so to speak.
Anyway…..
As more, and more comments are being left, by folks visiting this blog, I see it has been split down the middle. One side (a), being common skin conditions causing their scalp problem, and the other side (b), more of a mental health issue.
Now, I’m not using the term “mental heath” to offend readers, but “OCD”, “stress”, “nervousness” “skin picking” , and so on, does fall under this term, but at the same time, who wants to be labeled with a mental issue?
Side (a) has been getting the attention with post on different skin ailments that can be the cause of scalp scabs, hopefully some useful information that has helped
Side (b) is lacking big time, why? I just didn’t realize the extent, how deep this problem really does go. Having this condition, because of “OCD” ect… and how it’s destroying, simple every day living, is a huge concern, it’s saddening to hear their stories and within their words, a cry for help.
So, now I have some work cut out for me, lets see what’s available to be of more help to side (b). Maybe, some informative post, to help understanding the relationship between “OCD” ect… with scalp scabs. Maybe a self help guide to follow and work through this issue. Not quite sure yet, but my research begins.
Have a great day, folks!!!
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I too like many of you had suffered years with head scraps and picking. I’ve gone to dermatologists looking for answers and treatments. All to no surprise,no good. I was told it was a condition called foliculitus (sp?). I’ve suffered with this condition now for well over 30 yrs. I’m not sure there is an a cure, but what I can say is that by keeping my hair short (I’m a man and easy to do this), it’s at least kept them somewhat in check. I have to work hard on not “picking” to the point of bleeding.
Hey Mike,
. I have been doing this for years now, but every so often I try to let it grow in some. As soon as it get no more then 1/4 inch in length, Guess what? Yup, I start picking again. Shaving is not for everyone, but it has helped me and being bald is kinda cool. I don’t mind it one bit.
Thanks for dropping by and taking the time to leave a comment.
Wow, 30 years you have been dealing with this scalp problem? Sorry to hear that. Like you, I also found that keeping my hair short helps in a big way. I went a step further, then short. I shave my head completely bald
Not picking can be so hard and it takes a lot of will power not to do so.
I hope you the best in keeping your scalp in check.
Hey Q,
Welcome back!
Can you tell us more…
The Hydrocortisone that you are using, how is it applied? Shampoo, paste, cream, lotion? Did you go to the Doctors, or is this something you are trying on your own?
Thank you, for sharing your personal story and tips to control this scalp issue.
Have a great day
I’m 18 now, and have been dealing with the scalp scabs for eight years. It bothers me that I don’t know what causes my issues. I know I have anxiety issues and OCD, but it started with simple scabs on my scalp as a little one. The doctor put me on some special stuff called T Gel, it worked alright, but it stunk to high heavens. I was always so embarrassed when we did lice checks at school because I was afraid they would think my scabs were nits or something. Over the years I have developed an obsession with picking at them. I sit there and do it when I think no one is watching. Sometimes, I don’t even realize that I’m doing it until I have a scab between my fingers or when I’ve ripped out several strands of long hair. I’m always afraid somebody at school will see me pulling scabs out and get grossed out. I’m also afraid that if I don’t grab the scab quickly, it will get stuck somewhere obviously visible in my hair and people will see (I have dark hair and my scabs are usually bright red or skin-toned). Even if I quit scratching at them, I still have them show up. I have pretty bad dandruff too, but I use Head and Shoulders and it helps. Herbal Essence used to make a clarifying shampoo that had it completely clean, but they no longer have that same type since they revamped everything. My dad just suggested (I mean literally, 2 minutes ago) using cortisone on it, and I’m trying that, maybe it will help. Who knows?
I have a little update on everything. Hydrocortisone helped my scalp out a little bit and it’s not as bad now. I still have a few, my main ones that come back are on my part in the middle of the top of my head, but they tend to not go away. I’ve had people ask my if they hurt and they don’t really, but I may just be used to them.
I was doing a web search for scalp treatments, and came across this site. I thought that I had issues, no idea that other people suffered from the same thing.
I’ve picked my scalp for years. Usually when I’m tired, or anxious.
I thought that the reason for it was that I had severe cradle cap when I was a baby, and my mom would ‘pick’ the scabs off of my scalp while I was nursing. I thought that because of that, I associated scalp picking with nurturing and comfort.
I ALWAYS pick my head when I’m tired. My head is usually a bloody scabby mess. It’s painful to brush my hair, to shampoo, whatever.
It’s comforting to know that I’m not the only one with this issue (I thought I was), and I’m anxious to read what I can to find ways to help myself.
Violet,
Hello and thank you for taking the time to leave a comment…
I can tell you, for a fact you are not alone dealing with this horrible scalp condition, so don’t get so down on yourself, instead focus on beating it.
Coming to terms, and admitting you may be dealing with a form of “OCD” is a good start.
I truly wished, I had the answer to help each individual person, but each case is different, those with known skin problems, those with “OCD” and the ones who just like to pick out of boredom.
But, no matter what the driving force is, that makes one pick, the bottom line has to be “healing” or at the very least, a controlling method to where lives are not being disrupted from the embarrassment in daily living.
So, let’s try and get your scalp healed, may cut down on the desire to pick, if the scabs are gone.
Find a product of your choice, preferably a leave -in treatment, that can be used daily, not something harsh, but targeted to scalp itch problems.
You have to stop, hand to scalp contact, what I did, may not be practical for you, but if so….. find a lightweight head covering, (I used a bandanna) wear this as much as possible, especially around the house, after using a treatment, and while sleeping.
It will allow you to itch, but not break open the scabs, thus giving a better healing time.
Get a squeeze ball, and squeeze the life out of it, when the feeling, of needing to do something with your hands, during an “OCD” attack (if we can call it that). This is a form of retraining the brain, to stop sending signals to pick.
This is a method that worked for me, once you block the fingers from actually picking, you will see, the healing process kicking in quite fast.
Try it…..
Hoping you the best.
I had NO idea others had this problem! I have been picking at my scalp since I was 12. I am now 39. It started when I had shingles on my face and head as a child (12 years old). I had scabs all over my scalp as a result and gained the compulsion to pick at them. I now do it without thinking. I am embarrassed by the state of my scalp. I work in fashion and stylists are always offering a free trim. I always decline for fear they’ll see. Getting a haircut, I have to plan around the “acceptability” of the state of my scalp. I am constantly searching for patches of dry skin or a scab to remove. It’s like an obsession. This is such a horrific shame of mine. I cannot believe none notices it, though I try to be discreet. I try to tell myself it is unhealthy and damaging but cannot seem to stop. It is clearly a form of OCD. My son was apparently walking around taking random pictures yesterday and there i was, not knowing i was having my picture taken, with my hand in my hair. That was the last straw for me. I looked pathetic. Time to stop.. Big time!! Any ideas?