Eczema, gluten and your scalp: the connection you might be missing

Eczema, gluten and your scalp: the connection you might be missing

Did you know that skin conditions like eczema can sometimes be linked to gluten?

While eczema isn't caused by gluten, there's growing evidence it can flare up in those with coeliac disease, DH (dermatitis herpetiformis), or gluten sensitivity.

Gluten and skin: What the UK data shows

  • According to Coeliac UK, dermatitis herpetiformis is the “skin manifestation of coeliac disease” and affects about 1 in 3,300 people in the UK. Ref: Coeliac UK.
  • The rash often appears on areas like the scalp, suggesting gluten can exacerbate skin conditions even before digestive symptoms emerge. Ref: Coeliac UK.
  • The National Eczema Society advises people to “monitor triggers – common ones include dairy, eggs or gluten” Ref: National Eczema Society

Why does this link matter for haircare? 

Removing gluten isn’t just about what you eat, it can be just as important in your personal care routine, especially if you live with coeliac disease, dermatitis herpetiformis, or sensitive skin conditions like eczema.

While gluten can’t penetrate intact skin, it can still pose a risk in the following ways:

  • Scalp exposure: The scalp is highly vascular and often affected in skin conditions. If gluten-containing products are massaged into the scalp, especially on broken or inflamed skin, they may exacerbate irritation or trigger flare-ups in sensitive individuals.
  • Hand-to-mouth transfer: Gluten from haircare can linger on your hands, hair, towels, or pillowcases, leading to accidental ingestion, especially during makeup routines, face washing, or even sleeping.
  • Confidence and peace of mind: For many with coeliac disease or DH, knowing their products are 100% gluten-free helps remove the guesswork, reduce anxiety, and restore trust in their routine.

With Olsson Scandinavia, you're not just choosing clean ingredients; you're choosing certified gluten-free care, backed by experts and formulated with your health in mind.

  • Completely gluten-free
  • Approved by Allergy UK and Asthma Allergy Nordic
  • Free from fragrances, colourants, and common allergens

Thinking about switching to gluten-free haircare? 

We understand it’s not always easy to trust something new, especially when your skin is sensitive. That’s why we offer a free patch test kit for our shampoo and conditioner. It’s a simple way to test our formulas gently on your skin, with no pressure to buy. And if it feels like a good fit? You’ll also receive a discount off your first full-size order.

Because finding the right haircare should be safe, stress-free; and kind to your scalp.

Useful links:

 


References: Celiac Disease Foundation, about Dermatitis Herpetiformis. Coeliac UK, Dermatitis Herpetiformis. National Eczema Society, Eczema Triggers.

Disclaimer: Consult a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific condition. Due to the complex nature of allergies we cannot guarantee that our products will not trigger an allergic reaction. Over 3 years we developed a formula that has been commended by leading scientists and allergy associations who have gone on to provide their badge of approval. However, if you are a sensitive soul, we would always encourage you to examine the ingredients that are carefully itemised on each product listing, review our free-from table, discover our Help & FAQ Or ask our experts - but most importantly, undertake a patch test prior to use.

Have a question?

Submit your query to us. We're keen to support you. Answered directly by the Olsson Haircare team and our network of professional Stylists and Chemists.