Scalp Smells or Feels Sticky? Monsoon Humidity Could Be the Culprit”

“Scalp Smells or Feels Sticky? Monsoon Humidity Could Be the Culprit”

By Dr. Mohd Rizwan Khan | Dr. Rizwan’s Skin Cosmetic & Laser Clinic, Shahjahanpur

⸻

Ever noticed that your scalp starts smelling weird or feels sticky and oily during monsoon?

Even after washing your hair?

You’re not alone. Many people walk into our clinic complaining of this – especially during the rainy season. Let’s break down why it happens, and what you can do about it.

⸻

🌧️ Why Does the Scalp Act Up During Monsoon?

Monsoon = Humidity + Sweat + Dampness. This combination creates the perfect setup for scalp problems:

1. Sweat doesn’t evaporate properly

2. Hair stays damp for hours (especially if air-dried)

3. Fungus and bacteria love warm, moist areas

So even if your hair looks fine, your scalp might be breeding invisible trouble.

⸻

🚩 Signs That Your Scalp Isn’t Happy

• Sticky feeling even after shampoo

• Scalp smells bad within a day

• Itching, especially by evening

• Greasy roots with dry ends

• Small boils or bumps near the hairline

If you notice any of these, humidity is likely playing a role.

⸻

💡 Common Causes (That People Ignore)

1. Not Drying Hair Properly

Wet hair and a humid atmosphere are a dangerous pair. A half-dry scalp can easily become a home for fungal infections.

2. Using Heavy Oils in Humid Weather

Oiling is great — but in monsoon, thick oils can trap dirt, sweat, and heat, leading to clogged follicles and bad odour.

3. Wearing Helmets or Scarves for Long Hours

These lock in moisture and heat, making the scalp sweaty and smelly — especially common in working professionals and two-wheeler riders.

⸻

🛑 What Can This Lead To?

• Dandruff

• Fungal folliculitis (tiny pimples on scalp)

• Seborrheic dermatitis

• Hair fall from blocked follicles

We’ve seen a sharp rise in these complaints during rainy months at our Shahjahanpur clinic.

⸻

✅ What You Can Do: Quick Fixes & Long-Term Habits

1. Use a gentle anti-fungal shampoo twice a week

Look for ingredients like ketoconazole or zinc pyrithione – especially if you sweat a lot.

2. Avoid oiling and tying up damp hair

Let your scalp breathe. If you must oil, apply 2 hours before shampoo, not overnight.

3. Use a hairdryer on cool setting

Air-drying is not enough in monsoon. Make sure your roots are fully dry.

4. Keep scalp exfoliated

Once a week, use a scalp scrub or mild exfoliating shampoo to remove buildup.

5. Change pillow covers regularly

A sweaty pillow = fungal playground. Wash them often in hot water.

⸻

👨‍⚕️ Dr. Rizwan’s Take

During monsoon, your scalp needs as much care as your face. If you feel embarrassed by the smell, or if your scalp feels sticky and itchy, don’t ignore it. A timely scalp check and simple changes in your hair routine can prevent long-term problems.

⸻

📍 Facing scalp issues this season? Visit Dr. Rizwan’s Skin Cosmetic & Laser Clinic, Shahjahanpur, for a proper diagnosis and customised treatment.

📱 Follow us on Instagram for real, relatable skincare & hair care advice – straight from the clinic.