Is It Dandruff Or A Dry Scalp? Here's What You Need To Know

. Chapters 0:00 Introduction 0:53 Causes of dry scalp 1:22 Causes of dandruff 2:04 Do you have dandruff 2:14 Treating a dry scalp 2:41 Treating dandruff You can develop a dry scalp if your scalp does not have sufficient oil for the skin to feel lubricated. • This can result in flaking, itching, and irritation. It also makes the air look dry. • Sometimes, washing your hair every day or not drinking enough water can cause a dry scalp. • Conditions like eczema or psoriasis could also cause dry scalp. • Those with dry skin are more susceptible to dry scalp, The things that cause dry scalp include excessive washing and dry air, especially in the winter months. Dandruff • Just like the rest of the skin, the scalp sheds dead skin cells. When this process speeds up, it is called dandruff. • The more the scalp sheds dead skin cells, the worse the dandruff. • Potential causes of dandruff include oils secreted by the scalp, fungal infections, or sensitivity to substances like hair products. Symptoms • People with dry scalp may notice flakes shedding from their scalp, just like dandruff, however, they are usually smaller and whiter. • Dandruff flakes are usually larger and may look oily. • While both dry scalp and dandruff tend to come and go, dandruff caused by fungal infection doesn’t get better without treatment. • Both conditions make the scalp itchy and irritated. Differences between dandruff and dry scalp • Most people find it difficult to differentiate between the two conditions. • In general, flakes are more likely to be dandruff if the scalp feels oily, hair looks greasy, and when there is intense scalp itching. • It is possible to have both conditions. When to see a doctor • Both conditions can be managed using home remedies • You should see a doctor for a flaky scalp if home treatments do not work, if there are open wounds on the head or face or if there are other symptoms like sores and redness. • People with autoimmune disorders or chronic illnesses should talk to their doctor before treating dandruff because the symptoms may be due to another condition Treatment options • People with dandruff should use an anti-dandruff shampoo to wash their hair regularly. • Most dandruff shampoos contain pyrithione and this will help treat many underlying causes of dandruff • The coal tar shampoo is another option to treat dandruff. • Coconut oil can be used to treat dry scalp, it moisturizes the scalp and its antibacterial and antifungal properties reduce the risk of infections. • Aloe vera also has a lot of properties to treat dry scalp. Its inflammatory properties reduce skin irritation and are an effective moisturizing agent. • People whose dry scalp or dandruff doesn’t improve with home remedies should see a doctor. Prevention • Going long periods without shampooing can make dandruff more visible. • In some people, dandruff is a chronic condition that tends to go and come back, and it is unclear if it can be prevented. • You can prevent dry scalp by shampooing less frequently, switching to a moisturizing shampoo, using a humidifier to keep skin from getting dry, using less irritating shampoo, and drinking more water.