We’ve all experienced that uncomfortable sensation of aching, tender scalp when our hair hasn’t been washed. 

It is a peculiar phenomenon that bewilders minds and baffles even the most astute observers: “why does the scalp ache when tangled strands are left unwashed?”. 

Imagine a microscopic symphony on the scalp, where oils, dust, and remnants of the day’s journey intermingle in a tumultuous dance. 

This article will explore the underlying reasons behind this phenomenon and discuss the importance of maintaining a clean and healthy scalp.

Read along to know the answer to why does my scalp hurt when my hair is dirty.

Know the reasons

Understanding the reasons why your scalp hurts when it’s dirt is necessary. 

It helps us in taking proper measures to avoid this situation.

Listed below are some of the reasons, 

Accumulation of oil and dirt

The buildup of oil and dirt on the head is one of the main reasons it hurts when hair is dirty. 

Our scalps make natural oils that keep our hair and skin wet throughout the day.

But when these oils combine with dirt, sweat, and styling products, they can build up on the head and cause hair follicles to get clogged. 

This buildup can lead to inflammation, itching, and pain in the head.

Bacterial and fungal growth

When hair isn’t washed often, it makes a good place for bacteria and germs to grow. 

Fact:
When there is too much oil and moisture, these microorganisms grow and cause problems like dandruff, acne on the head, and fungal infections.

The work of these microbes can cause inflammation of the scalp and add to the pain that comes from having dirty hair.

Increased sensitivity

When the head gets dirty, hair can break down the natural layer that keeps the head clean. 

Pollutants, allergens, and chemical residues that build up on the skin can irritate it and cause inflammation. 

Even small things, like touching or brushing the hair, can cause pain and soreness because the skin is more sensitive.

Impaired blood circulation

A clean head encourages good blood flow, which brings oxygen and nutrients to the hair follicles. 

But when the head is dirty, dead skin cells can build up and block blood flow. 

If there isn’t enough blood flow, the hair follicles don’t get the nutrients they need, which slows hair growth, and makes the head itchy.

Itching and scratching

Itching in scalp can cause pain
Itching in scalp

When the skin is dirty, irritants and an overgrowth of microorganisms can cause itching. 

Because of this, we tend to scratch our heads to stop the itching. 

But scratching too much can hurt the hair and cause itching, pain, and inflammation.

How can you maintain a healthy scalp

To avoid scalp discomfort caused by dirty hair, it is crucial to adopt a regular hair cleansing routine and maintain a healthy scalp environment. 

Following are some tips:

Regular hair washing

Use a gentle shampoo made for your hair type at least twice or three times a week to clean your hair and skin. 

This helps remove extra oil, dirt, and product buildup on your hair, keeping it clean and fresh.

Avoid overwashing

Even though cleaning your hair regularly is essential, washing it too much can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. 

Find a combination that works for your hair and your way of life.

Use gentle products

Choose hair care products that are gentle, don’t have any strong chemicals, and are suitable for sensitive scalps. 

Caution:
Please don’t use too many style products because they can build up and make your hair heavy.

Brush properly

Brush your hair gently to spread the natural oils and get the blood flowing. 

Don’t brush your hair too hard, especially when wet, because it can break your hair and hurt your skin.

Maintain a healthy diet

Balanced diet for healthy scalp
Balanced diet for healthy scalp

A healthy scalp can be helped by eating a well-balanced diet of vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. 

Ensure you get enough fruits, veggies, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

Conclusion

Aching and tender scalp when your hair is dirty can be attributed to the accumulation of oil, dirt, and microbial growth. 

Keeping your head clean and healthy is vital to regularly caring for your hair. 

By doing this, you can lessen irritation on your scalp, help your hair grow, and get a fresh, full head of hair. 

Remember that good hair starts with a healthy scalp.

Recommended Article:
To know about how to properly clean your scalp, read The Ultimate Guide to How to Clean Scalp.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my scalp sore after not washing my hair?

When hair isn’t washed, oil, dirt, and product residue build up on the scalp. This can lead to clogged hair shafts, bacterial or fungal growth, inflammation, and a more sensitive scalp.

Why would the roots of my hair hurt?

Many things can cause hair roots to hurt, such as inflammation of the scalp, pulling or tension on the hair, allergic responses to hair products, scalp infections, using too much heat to style the hair or conditions like Trichodynia or scalp Dysesthesia.

Why does my hair scalp hurt to touch?

Several things, such as inflammation, scalp infections, stress headaches, migraines, nerve conditions like Trigeminal neuralgia, scalp sunburn, allergic reactions to hair products, or conditions like scalp psoriasis or Seborrheic dermatitis can cause a sensitive or painful scalp.

How often should hair be washed?

Your hair wash depends on factors like your hair type, the health of your skin, and your preferences. Most people should wash their hair two to three times weekly to balance cleaning and keeping the scalp’s natural oils.

Citations:
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