Falling flakes and a itchy scalp can not only be very irritating, it can also be embarrassing. Unfortunately, for many people dandruff is part of everyday life. But what if we told you that not all falling flakes are dandruff and that many people misdiagnose themselves?
Is It Dandruff Or Dry Scalp?
Although both conditions have similar symptoms, they are cause by different reasons and require different treatments. Many people don’t know the difference between dandruff and dry scalp, and mistake dandruff for dry scalp or visa versa. Treating the wrong condition will not help, and might make things worse. Below we will discuss the difference between dandruff and dry scalp and their causes, symptoms and treatment options.
Causes, Symptoms and Treatment of Dry Scalp
Causes of Dry Scalp
A dry scalp is caused by loss of moisture. Severe dehydration, using a poor quality shampoo and conditioner that remove your scalp’s natural oils, washing your hair too frequently and with hot water or an extreme change in temperature are all causes of a dry scalp.
Symptoms of Dry Scalp
The symptoms of dry scalp are small white flakes falling off your head, accompanied by itchiness and irritation on the scalp.
Treatment for Dry Scalp
Staying hydrated is on of the most important and easiest treatments for dry scalp. Especially during the winter when artificial heating systems are on and your skin is exposed to extreme heat and cold. Switching to a a shampoo specifically made for dry scalp and washing your hair less often might also do the trick. Washing your hair under warm water every other day will promote the production of natural oils and a natural pH. To help loosen dead skin cells we recommend brushing all areas of your scalp with a boar bristle brush before washing your hair.
Causes, Symptoms and Treatments of Dandruff
Causes of Dandruff
Human skin cells are always renewing themselves and as cells are being renewed the dead ones are expelled from the skin. For people with dandruff, new cells are renewed at a faster rate than they die, resulting in more skin being expelled. Excessive dandruff can be caused by a fungal or bacterial infection, such as psoriasis.
Although it is rare, dandruff can also be caused by an allergic reaction to a certain chemical in hair care products.
Symptoms of Dandruff
People affected by dandruff experience large yellowish or grayish, oily clumps falling off the head. Other symptoms are redness and irritation of the scalp. Contrary to popular belief a dry scalp is not a symptom of dandruff but rather an oily scalp.
Treatment for Dandruff
Fortunately, mild dandruff can be controlled with a good quality dandruff shampoo available online or in stores. If the dandruff is severe, a prescription shampoo might be required.
When fighting dandruff make sure to clean and disinfect brushes, towels, pillowcases and everything else that comes in contact with your hair or scalp after each use.
Note: This is an informative post that discusses the difference between dandruff and dry scalp only and we can not guarantee 100% accuracy. Please contact a medical professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Very informative article. Most of the people struggle with a variety of hair problems such as hair fall, itchy scalp, dry flakes, dandruff or other serious hair issues. These tips are very helpful for healthy hair care routine. Thanks for sharing and keep guiding us.
Hi,i am really disturbed because of my scalp problem,its sometimes so dry that i have to scratch all over my scalp which sometimes results in blood clots on my scalp,the feeling is really embaracing if you have to do it in front of everyone as if you have no control over it.please be my saviour and spare me with this problem of my scalp i really need some advice.