What causes a red, itchy and bleeding scalp?

Redness, Itching and Bleeding

There are quite a few causes of a red, itchy and bleeding scalp. Anyone with such a trio best see a dermatologist to guide them.

 

Common conditions

Conditions such as psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis are common in the population and must be placed at the top of the list of possibilities. Other causes include folliculitis decalvans and other scarring alopecias, infections, bites, infestations, allergy and irritation. 

Pinpoint bleeding in this photo tells me right away that the patient I am examining may be quite itchy. As it turned out, they were! 

I often prescribe a topical steroid to help reduce itching.