The Disturbed Microbial Niches of Itchy Scalp

This study examined the relationship between scalp microbiota and itchiness in 83 itchy and 41 non-itchy subjects, revealing significant microbial composition differences. Itchy scalps showed higher microbial richness but less evenness, with a higher ratio of Cutibacterium to Staphylococcus. Specific bacterial ASVs, such as Acinetobacter guillouiae and Pseudomonas, were linked to itchiness. A 28-day intervention using a basic cleaning detergent on 43 itchy subjects reduced itch severity, suggesting that maintaining a balanced microbial environment and reducing certain low-abundance bacteria can help manage scalp itch. The study was limited to Chinese females, indicating a need for broader research.