Help with scalp odor as it smell bad all the time

Hi @molawson88, Welcome to Connect. I know that you mentioned you've tried a bunch of different shampoos and the dermatologist prescribed prescribed Keketoconazole 2 % (ketoconazole?). I read an article with some home remedies for smelly scalp which listed ketoconazole along with some other recommendations and also mentioned if the first one you try doesn't work to try another one.

What’s Causing My Scalp to Smell and How Do I Treat It?: https://www.healthline.com/health/smelly-scalp

Did your dermatologist happen to mention if the Ketoconazole based shampoo doesn't work to try another one with a different active ingredient?

Hi @molawson88. I will keep reply short and sweet. I know the stress you are feeling and it really affects self esteem. I have recently started doing the following to greatly reduce my own situation. After washing my hair with my regular hair products, I towel dry the hair, and liberally spray my scalp with colloidal silver solution. Then I dry it using my regular products and a hairdryer. And hey presto! Greatly reduced scalp odour, even in the summer sun! I use a high stability high purity brand (not sure if I can mention the name here). It's in a blue bottle with a white spray top. Also, studies have documented that the yeast Malassezia is to blame for this odour as it feeds on sebum and oils on the scalp. But colloidal silver inhibits it extremely effectively. Hope you find this useful and can start enjoying your life again!

I wonder if there is something in your diet that is affecting your scalp? One article listed foods to avoid or moderate: red meat, garlic, broccoli/cauliflower, asparagus or if you are on a low carb diet. They suggest adding leafy vegetables. Track your diet for a couple of weeks--maybe there's a link if you have recently made changes. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/24751-smelly-scalp

molawson88, Menopause can definitely change your body's chemistry. Have you tried using baking soda in the palm of your hand mixed with your shampoo? How about a vinegar rinse in your hair with cool water after shampooing? Both of these help with odor. Just a suggestion. Praying for you. I know this is embarrassing for you and I am sorry you have this.

You need to see a dermatologist as soon as possible.

Hi Mo,
I am so sorry that you are having this problem. I have researched nonenal odor. I am not saying that is your particular problem. But, what I found might be helpful for you. Persimmon Extract (or tannin), is a potent antiseptic loaded with vitamins that has been used by the Japanese for its naturally purifying and deodorizing benefits. It naturally dissolves nonenal odor. As one ages, the skin’s antioxidant defenses start to weaken which can result in a funky type of odor.

I found a product that -in my experience - is very effective in eradicating that "old age" smell. I am not recommending for you to buy it but it certainly is worth checking out. Also, as others mentioned, a visit with your Primary Care dr and possible referral to a dermatologist may be a good idea. Best of luck to you!

Here are two links:
https://www.amazon.com/Mirai-Clinical-Deodorizing-Sulfate-Free-Moisturizing/dp/B01KW62HPM/ref=sr_1_3_sspa?hvadid=580841988403&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9061109&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=5483922919699251291&hvtargid=kwd-22795000175&hydadcr=14802_13387519&keywords=persimmon+shampoo&qid=1691078082&sr=8-3-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1
https://miraiclinical.com/products/purifying-deodorizing-hair-shampoo?variant=31921183719556&utm_medium=product_sync&utm_source=google&utm_content=sag_organic&utm_campaign=sag_organic&nbt=nb%3Aadwords%3Ax%3A15498592071%3A%3A&nb_adtype=pla&nb_kwd=&nb_ti=&nb_mi=257021513&nb_pc=online&nb_pi=shopify_US_4498718687364_31921183719556&nb_ppi=&nb_placement=&nb_li_ms=&nb_lp_ms=&nb_fii=&nb_ap=&nb_mt=&campaignid=15498592071&adgroupid=&adid=&gclid=Cj0KCQjwoK2mBhDzARIsADGbjereBTFsAJy7sbDOXX3Y4p4iEENfwtotQ7KKyCLlmGl_F56WPWkdx4UaAq20EALw_wcB

someone in my fam had this problem and it’s pretty resolved by using HasK Tea Tree shampoo and conditioner over time. I think the tea tree oil washes away the foul smelling bacteria. But, also, once i thought my hair was stinky, but when i finally removed my earrings - found out it was coming from there. Turns out some folks get stinky stuff in their piercings. If that’s you, remove prior to sleep each night and keep your earring posts and backs cleaned. Hope it helps!

You need a dermatologist.

There are shampoos that are advertised for "smelly scalp" (in addition to oily scalp). There are some interesting ones from South Korea that you can easily buy online in the US. I think they cost anywhere from $15 to $25 per big bottle. These are high quality products with lots of Asian herbs that have been used for centuries and longer. I don't know if they actually work for smelly scalp but some internet sellers might offer free returns.

I have personally used T/Sal shampoo (different than T/Gel and it cleared up my years of scalp acne almost immediately and it has not returned after I stopped using just 1 bottle.

Yes, a Dermatologist is needed.My spouse has a medicated antifungal for this problem. He also uses Tea Tree shampoo. He only uses the Antifungal three times a week. His hair does not smell while using them!

In some cases, applying some baking soda in your hand along with your shampoo will cut through any odor and build up. IF you color your hair, it can possibly strip some of the color. If not, you are go to good. Baking soda is used for so many things and it's natural. Blessings & Happy New Year.