Itchy Scalp – Is It Because of Pregnancy?

I am 20 weeks and have had a very itchy scalp. Is this normal? If so is there anything I can do to for this itchy mess I have?
Thanks.”

Being itchy during pregnancy is really common, and having an itchy scalp during pregnancy could be due to a number of things. First, everyone’s skin (including the skin on the scalp) reacts to pregnancy hormones differently, sometimes becoming drier or oilier than usual. If your skin is dry, that can cause itching, and a moisturizing scalp treatment, like with neem hair oil, can help. Don’t use hair products that contain alcohol, which will dry your scalp out even more, and wash your hair with cool water, because hot water will also cause dryness. Your itch could also be caused by a mild allergy.

Pregnancy hormones make your skin more sensitive, and your scalp may be reacting to a product you’re using. Try switching shampoos to something without sodium lauryl (or laureth) sulfate or cocamide DEA, MEA or MIPA,all ingredients that have been known to cause an allergic reaction in some people. And also consider non-pregnancy-related causes, like a fungal infection, head lice (particularly if you work with kids), or plain old dandruff — if that’s the case a little dandruff shampoo should clear it right up. Dandruff shampoos with selenium sulfide or zinc pyrithione are safe for use during pregnancy. Good luck!