Chinese Journal of Dermatology ›› 2025, e20240301.doi: 10.35541/cjd.20240301

• Reviews • Previous Articles    

Etiology and pathogenesis of sensitive scalp

Zhang Beilei1, Song Xiuzu2   

  1. 1Hangzhou Third Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310009, China; 2Department of Dermatology, the Third People's Hospital of Hangzhou, Hangzhou 310009, China
  • Received:2024-06-04 Revised:2024-09-24 Online:2025-01-24 Published:2025-02-08
  • Contact: Song Xiuzu E-mail:songxiuzu@sina.com
  • Supported by:
    National Natural Science Foundation of China (82473549); Science and Technology Major Project of Zhejiang Province and the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine (GZY-ZJ-KJ-23035); Health Science and Technology Major Project of Hangzhou (Z20220040)

Abstract: 【Abstract】 Sensitive scalp is characterized by abnormal sensations such as tingling, itching, and burning, excluding any underlying skin diseases. The etiology of sensitive scalp may be related to the exposure to physical and chemical components in the environment (such as ultraviolet rays, hair dyes, and hair care products), microorganisms, psychological and physiological factors, lifestyle and hair loss diseases. These factors can damage the scalp by destroying the scalp barrier, causing hypersensitivity of nerve endings, activating inflammatory pathways, etc. This review summarizes possible pathogenesis of sensitive scalp, aiming to provide insights for further exploration of treatment strategies.

Key words: Scalp dermatoses, Pruritus, inflammation, Sensitive scalp, Sensitive skin