Treatment guidelines for scalp eczema specifically in Black women
Black women often face unique challenges when it comes to managing scalp eczema due to the specific characteristics of their hair and skin. A new study highlights the importance of gentle hair care and targeted skin management for effective treatment.
Research indicates that certain hair care practices among Black women, such as regular use of hair oils and pomade, infrequent shampooing, use of chemical relaxers, and use of hair extensions may worsen scalp eczema [1]. Moreover, some over-the-counter (OTC) products designed to treat scalp eczema and dandruff may cause severe dryness and hair breakage in Black hair, and should be avoided [1].
To counteract these issues, recommended treatments emphasize the use of fragrance-free, thick moisturizers or ointments to hydrate the scalp and prevent dryness immediately after washing [1]. Keeping washes or baths short (5 to 10 minutes) with lukewarm water can also help reduce irritation [1].
Avoiding harsh shampoos or hair products with sulfates and ingredients that may dry or irritate the scalp is crucial. Instead, gentle, moisturizing, and sulfate-free cleansers are preferred to respect the skin barrier and hair fragility [5]. Identifying and avoiding individual triggers, such as overheating, certain soaps, or dry air, which can exacerbate eczema, is also important [1].
For seborrhoeic dermatitis, a related scalp condition common in African Americans, antifungal shampoos containing ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, or selenium sulfide are effective [4]. Topical anti-inflammatory treatments (often corticosteroids) prescribed by a healthcare professional can also help reduce scalp inflammation, but should be monitored carefully on darker skin to prevent side effects like hypopigmentation [1][4].
Treating the common post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation seen in Black skin after eczema flare-ups may involve dermatology-prescribed agents like alpha hydroxy acids (kojic acid, glycolic acid) or retinoids to help fade dark spots over time [1].
In conclusion, the key differences lie in using gentle, moisturizing hair care tailored to Black hair’s fragility and recognizing that eczema signs might look different, requiring knowledgeable diagnosis and treatment to manage symptoms and minimize pigmentation issues effectively [1][5].
References:
[1] American Academy of Dermatology. (2020). Eczema in Black Skin. [online] Available at: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/eczema/black-skin
[4] American Academy of Dermatology. (2020). Seborrheic Dermatitis: Overview. [online] Available at: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/scalp-hair-loss/seborrheic-dermatitis
[5] National Eczema Association. (2020). Shampoo Ingredients and Eczema. [online] Available at: https://nationaleczema.org/eczema/treatment/shampoo-ingredients-and-eczema/
- Race and mental health researchers should consider the impact of scalp eczema, a frequent health-and-wellness concern for many Black women, on their overall wellbeing.
- Skin care professionals should educate Black women about the role of gentle hair care practices and targeted skin management in managing eczema, a medical-condition that affects them disproportionately.
- CBD-based products, known for their anti-inflammatory properties, could potentially be beneficial for managing the irritation caused by eczema, but more scientific research is needed to confirm this.
- Fitness and exercise have been shown to help alleviate stress, a potential trigger for eczema flare-ups, making them important aspects of womens-health management strategies.
- In addition to treating active eczema, dermatologists may prescribe skin-care products containing alpha hydroxy acids or retinoids to help address post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in Black skin.
