Iowa Cosmetology Practice Exam 2026 - Free Cosmetology Practice Questions and Study Guide

A common symptom of scalp irritation is redness or itching. These symptoms usually arise due to various factors, including allergies to hair products, irritants, or skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema. When the scalp becomes irritated, the body's response often includes inflammation, leading to noticeable redness and an itchy sensation as the skin reacts to the irritant.

While excessive oil production can occur due to various scalp conditions and that may accompany irritation, it is not a direct symptom of scalp irritation itself. Increased hair growth is unrelated to irritation and more accurately reflects hormonal changes or genetic factors rather than skin condition. Softness pertains to the texture of hair or skin, which does not indicate any irritation. Therefore, redness and itching are the most recognized and immediate signs indicating that the scalp may be irritated and require attention.