When your scalp is dry and itchy
Your dry and itchy skin may not be just on your hands, face or neck. Your scalp may also be sensitive. It’s harder for the medicine to get to your scalp because your hair gets in the way, and creams and ointments may be all but impossible to spread without making your hair look and feel greasy. TMA members have shared products and strategies they’ve found useful.
Some medicines are made into foams. Jane, an adult DM patient, says it works like a mousse by giving your hair fullness while reaching your scalp to get rid of the itch. You can rub the medicines into your scalp right after shampooing your hair. (Some examples of these are Luxiq, or betamethasone valerate, and Derma-Smoothe/FS, or fluocinolene acetonide topical solution. Both of these, as well as others, are available with a prescription from your doctor.)
You may not need to use prescription foams or solutions, though. If you find that your scalp is extremely itchy or sore, try a different shampoo and/or conditioner. Ask your doctor if using a moisturizing shampoo or even a prescription-strength shampoo would help. Or extend the time between shampoos-if you typically shampoo daily, try every other day instead.
Always talk to your doctor before using any new products.
Choose a hairstyle that’s right for you and your JM
So it’s not the itch that bothers you the most? If your hands and arms are weak from myositis, it is hard for you to lift your arms to work on your hair. Decide what type of hairstyle works best for your own hair type so that you won’t have to spend too much time styling it.
Short hair works for some hair types, but remember that the length of your hair doesn’t always determine how long it will take to fix. Those with long hair have the advantage of being able to pull it back in ponytails or buns. Choose a style that doesn’t require you to use a hairdryer but instead looks good after air-drying. Again, keep in mind that you may not have to wash your hair every day-that can actually be unhealthy for some hair types.
When you do shampoo, use a shampoo, conditioner or other product that will get rid of tangles more easily. This way, you won’t have to struggle to brush them out. Brushes with longer handles are also available to keep you from having to reach up or around as much.