Quick answer
Scalp injuries include cuts (lacerations), scrapes and bruises to the skin and tissue covering the skull. StatPearls explains that because the scalp has an excellent blood supply, lacerations can bleed heavily, but the bleeding is generally controllable, infections are relatively uncommon, and most scalp lacerations without other injuries heal well with excellent cosmetic results.[1]
Layers of the scalp
StatPearls describes the scalp as five layers, remembered with the mnemonic SCALP:[1]
S: Skin
C: Subcutaneous tissue
A: Aponeurosis and muscle
L: Loose areolar tissue
P: Pericranium
The membrane covering the skull bone
According to StatPearls, the scalp lies on stretched skin over bone, which makes it more prone to laceration, and in lacerations the layers most commonly separate at the loose areolar tissue.[1]
Why scalp wounds bleed so much
StatPearls explains that the scalp’s excellent blood supply means lacerations may bleed profusely, and can even lead to hemorrhagic shock if not managed promptly.[1] The same review notes that the bleeding can usually be stopped by applying direct pressure.[1]
Causes
StatPearls notes that lacerations typically result from blunt trauma that tears the skin and underlying tissue, with examples ranging from falls, hammer blows and bottles to blast injuries.[1] MedlinePlus lists scalp wounds among the types of head injury, alongside concussions, skull fractures and bleeding around the brain.[2]
How scalp wounds are evaluated
StatPearls says careful examination for associated injuries such as skull fractures and brain injury is essential.[1] Clinicians assess the wound’s length, depth, shape, contamination and any skin loss.[1] Imaging is not needed for every scalp laceration, but StatPearls notes that bony defects or signs of brain injury warrant a CT scan, and suspected foreign bodies such as glass warrant imaging.[1]
How scalp wounds are closed
StatPearls reports that prompt (primary) closure is preferred in most cases, because delaying closure increases the risk of infection and scarring.[1] It describes three main options:[1]
Staples
Generally preferred when bleeding is controlled. Fast, inexpensive, few complications, and cosmetic results similar to sutures.
Hair apposition
For straight wounds under 10 cm in people with hair at least 1 cm long. Less painful and needs no removal.
Sutures
Used when a wound is bleeding heavily, or when staples aren’t available and hair apposition doesn’t fit.
Healing and complications
StatPearls states that wound infections are relatively uncommon because of the scalp’s blood supply, and that most scalp lacerations without other injuries have a good prognosis with little to no lasting effects.[1] It lists factors that can lead to poorer outcomes, including associated facial trauma, chronic conditions that impair healing such as diabetes, and contaminated wounds or retained foreign bodies.[1] Bite wounds carry a higher risk of infection, and smoking, alcohol use and a history of keloids can affect scarring.[1]
If someone else caused the injury
Scalp wounds from assaults, dog bites, falling objects or crashes may leave scars or come with less visible injuries such as a concussion. Photos and treatment records help document the injury. See Legal help after a head injury.
This page provides general information from the sources listed below. It is not medical advice and is not a substitute for evaluation by a qualified healthcare provider. In an emergency, call 911.
Sources
- Almulhim AM, Madadin M. “Scalp Laceration.” StatPearls, NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK541038/
- MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. “Head injury – first aid.” https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000028.htm
Sources last checked: October 11, 2026
