Can You Get Yeast Infections On Scalp?

One facebook fan out of Newport News, VA was experiencing strange symptoms on her scalp and wondering if you can have yeast infections on your scalp?

The short answer? Yes.

Yeast spots on the scalp are common among all ages groups although they are most often found in children. Yeast infections are caused for a number of reasons. The most well known cause is that of a fungus that infects the skin and hair follicles. There are various prescribed and over-the-counter medications that can be used to treat this common infection.

TAKE A LOOK: The Most Common Scalp Issues & Treatments

Yeast spots can form on your feet, on your nails, anywhere that can be prone to moist covered areas.

Candidiasis is by far the most common type of yeast infection in human skin. Candidiasis is infection with Candida species. More than 20 species of Candida exist. The most common is Candida albicans. These fungi live on all surfaces of our bodies and only occasionally cause infection.

How Can You Tell if you have Yeast Infections on Scalp?

Fungal infections such as yeast infections are most common in children although they can be found in all ages. A yeast infection found on the scalp is called tinea capitis. When identifying this type of infection look for scaly spots on the scalp which are often accompanied by hair loss. The spots may be large or small but if you notice any changes in your scalp, consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment options.

READ: 5 Things Every Woman Should Know About Yeast Infections

How Are Yeast Infections on Scalp Treated?

One medication used to treat yeast spots on the scalp is called...

... Ketoconazole. This is a topical product in the form of a shampoo. It should only be prescribed by a doctor. The prescription strength option is typically used once a day for 2 to 6 weeks while the over-the-counter version is applied daily to the scalp every 3 to 4 days for up to 8 weeks.

Another natural option is tea tree oil. It is a natural disinfectant that works like pharmaceutical antifungal products. Apply a light coating to the affected area two or three times a day, and continue to apply it for two weeks after signs of the infection have disappeared to make sure the fungus is eradicated.