Why does my hair hurt?
Hair itself doesn't have nerves, so when you experience the sensation of hair pain, it's actually your scalp that's affected. Hair and scalp pain can be caused by various factors, including:
Tight hairstyles: Wearing tight hairstyles, like braids, ponytails, cornrows, or weaves, can lead to traction alopecia – a type of hair loss caused by hair follicle damage due to repeated tension. This can cause tenderness and stinging on the scalp.
Scalp psoriasis: An autoimmune condition that causes an abnormal buildup of skin cells, psoriasis can produce itching, pain, burning, prickling, soreness, and tingling in the scalp.
Seborrheic dermatitis: Also known as dandruff or seborrheic eczema, this condition is a form of eczema that causes inflammation of the skin on the scalp, leading to itching and other discomforts.
Overuse of tight hairstyling and styling products: Frequent use of gel, hair spray, or tight hairstyles with styling tools, as well as chemical treatments, can lead to scalp irritation and inflammation.
Allodynia: A condition where a person may feel pain when the hair moves, particularly in those with frequent migraines; allodynia can also result from factors like repeated stimulation of scalp nerves due to hair brushing, set hairstyles, and contact with hair instruments.
Contact allergies: Reactions to new hair products can cause scalp irritation, itching, and pain.
Stress and lifestyle factors: Prolonged stress and an unhealthy lifestyle may contribute to scalp discomfort.
To identify and address the cause of scalp discomfort, examine your hairstyling habits, product usage, and overall scalp health. If your scalp continues to feel tender and you suspect an underlying health condition is involved, consult a dermatologist for appropriate treatment.