Tension headache: This is often the most common cause of anterior scalp tenderness due to muscle tension in the scalp and neck, leading to pain and tenderness.

Migraine: Migraines can cause tenderness on one side of the scalp, including the anterior portion, and are often accompanied by other symptoms like headache, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound.
Temporal arteritis: Although more common in older adults, temporal arteritis can cause tenderness and pain in the temporal region of the scalp, which may extend to the anterior portion.
Dermatological conditions: Conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or contact dermatitis can cause scalp tenderness, including in the anterior region, due to inflammation and skin irritation.
Folliculitis: An infection of the hair follicles can cause tenderness, redness, and swelling on the scalp, including the anterior area.

Giant cell arteritis: A serious condition that can lead to blindness if not promptly treated. It often presents with temporal headaches but can also cause anterior scalp tenderness.
Meningitis: Although rare, meningitis is a life-threatening condition that can cause scalp tenderness among other symptoms like fever, headache, and stiff neck.
Subdural hematoma: Trauma to the head can cause a subdural hematoma, leading to symptoms that may include scalp tenderness, headache, and neurological deficits.

Sarcoidosis: A systemic disease that can cause skin lesions and inflammation, potentially leading to scalp tenderness, including in the anterior region.
Lupus: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can cause a wide range of symptoms, including skin rashes and scalp tenderness due to inflammation.
Trigeminal neuralgia: A chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, which can cause intense pain and tenderness in the face and scalp, including the anterior portion.