What is the cause of my scalp pain when I move my hair?

You can have a sore top on your head for many reasons. This could include moving your hair or addressing skin conditions that could affect your scalp. It is treatable.
It can be uncomfortable and confusing to feel a tingling, burning, or painful sensation while you pull your hair back. Although it might feel like your hair is experiencing pain, it is actually caused by nerves in your scalp.
This article will explain the basics of what to do if you are experiencing frequent, strange pains when you move your hair.

Scalp pain while moving hair
When you are repositioning your hair, scalp pain can be described as:

Itching

Aching

tingling

Burning

Some people trusted sources describe it as having your hair combed aggressively or pulled, or scraped. Because moving your hair causes pain, it is only natural for many to assume that your hair is also feeling discomfort. Since hair strands do not have nerves, it is the underlying scalp that feels pain when you pull, tug, or lightly stimulate the hair strands. Scalp pain can occur when you move your hair . This could be an indication of another health condition, such as:

Headaches

Contact allergies

eczema

scalp psoriasis

dandruff

Possible causes

Scalp pain is caused by irritation or inflammation of your scalp. There are many causes for irritation and inflammation, such as:

scalp psoriasis

seborrheic dermatitis (dandruff)

scalp Folliculitis

allergic contact dermatitis

stress

ponytail headache

Burning scalp syndrome (scalp hyperesthesia).

The best way to relieve scalp pain
The cause of your scalp pain will determine the treatment options available to you. A dermatologist will likely be able to help you determine the cause of your scalp pain if it is persistent.
An allergic reaction
A sudden onset of scalp pain without any other symptoms could be the result of an allergic reaction, especially a reaction to a hair product.
Your first treatment is to let your hair rest for a few days. Rinse your scalp with cool water and avoid harsh shampoos.
Do not apply essential oils to your hair or scalp until you are certain that there has been no allergic reaction.
For eczema or psoriasis
If your scalp is flaking or peeling, gently brush it with a soft-bristled toothbrush when it's dry.
Scalps or flakes may appear on your hair as a sign that you have eczema or psoriasis.

A headache?
If your scalp is experiencing pain while you have a headache, it could be a sign of a more serious condition. You can relieve the symptoms with over-the-counter pain relief, such as ibuprofen or aspirin until the pain subsides.

Folliculitis
Folliculitis refers to an inflammation or infection of the hair follicles. Sometimes, an antibacterial cleanser or antibiotic may be required to treat the infection.
Sometimes, your doctor may need to culture a pustule from bacteria to confirm the diagnosis. This will help them to prescribe the right treatment.

How to avoid scalp pain
It is difficult to predict what causes scalp pain. There are ways to reduce the pain and discomfort you experience after you have experienced this symptom.

You should seek treatment for any skin condition, such as eczema or psoriasis, even if it does not usually affect your scalp.

To avoid allergic reactions to your scalp, read the product labels carefully.

Gently brush your hair and rinse it off with warm, soapy water every other day.

Sticky, adhesive-based hair products containing alcohol should be avoided as they can dry out your hair. These include gels and hair sprays.

Follow these hair hygiene tips from the American Academy of Dermatologists to keep your hair and scalp healthy.

How to visit a Doctor
A dermatologist is recommended if you experience pain in your scalp when you move your hair.
If you have any of these symptoms on your scalp, see your doctor immediately.

Scaly patches

Breakouts

Areas in need of attention

The bottom line
Scalp pain is common when you move your hair. There are many possible causes. While some causes don't require treatment, others can be temporary.
Scaling, burning, and itching of the scalp could indicate a skin infection. These symptoms may also be caused by other conditions, such as hair loss or infection.
If you feel pain in your scalp, talk to your doctor.