People often get confused between a dry scalp and dandruff. Often, both the terms are used interchangeably but it is important to know that the two conditions are different. Dry scalp is the reason for dandruff which is usually a fungal or any other type of scalp infection. If you are experiencing white flakes on your clothes or have an itchy scalp, you must read this article to know the difference between dry scalp and dandruff so that you can move in the right direction. This post will help you get a better understanding of the two terms and make an informed decision. So, let’s get started:
What is dry scalp?
A dry scalp is a condition in which the skin of the head becomes dry. Happens when the skin fails to produce natural and essential oils that keep the skin moisturized. Usually, people with dry skin type deal with dry scalp condition. The top layer of the skin dries out and can cause cracking, and shed fine flakes. This is also the condition that makes your scalp itchy. However, when you have dandruff, you do not feel any irritation.
Common causes of the dry scalp:
There are several reasons that cause dry scalp while the most common reason is a dry skin type, certain hormonal conditions and side effects from certain medicines can also lead to dry scalp. When you have a dry scalp, it feels very tight on the head and can make you uncomfortable. You can also get dull, dry and frizzy hair from a dry scalp.
Additional causes of dry scalp include:
- dry air, particularly during the winter months
- excessive washing
- skin conditions, such as eczema
How to treat dry scalp?
When you have a dry and flaky scalp, it is important that you deal worth it on priority. You must consult with an expert dermatologist and get professional help. The dermatologist will help you treat the condition and restore the natural oil levels on the scalp. The dermatologist will offer you personalized solutions for sensitive and dry scalp and perform frequent checks on the condition.
What is dandruff?
Though considered the same as dry scalp, dandruff is different. It starts with dry scalp only but is commonly a scalp or yeast infection. Dandruff appears as small white flakes that are caused by a naturally dry flaky scalp. There is no relation between skin type and dandruff and almost anybody can develop the problem.
It is natural for both humans and animals to shed skin and the process is known as dander. The naturally shed skin cells are very small and often go unnoticed. However, when the skin gets an infection the skin cells may get clustered and become visible, white flakes. When they get detached from the skin, they settle on the length of your hair as well as on the shoulder.
Common causes of dandruff:
The most common cause of dandruff is a dry scalp condition that grows intense when paired with a naturally occurring fungus on the scalp surface. If you have a tendency to shedding the scalp skin very fast, you will have to deal with more dandruff.
Additional causes of dandruff include:
- fungal infections of the scalp
- oils secreted by the scalp
- sensitivity to substances, such as hair products
How to treat dandruff?
It is best to see a dermatologist as soon as you identify dandruff. The dermatologist will prescribe you a gentle clarifying product that will remove flakes of dandruff without irritating the skin. You must also pay attention to your hair care routine and clean your hair ad scalp religiously.
Flaky and dry scalp can lead to several intense issues. It is best to see the doctor at the earliest. There are some common symptoms that indicate that you must see the doctor ASAP:
1. If you have redness or soreness on your head.
2. If you cannot deal with the problem on your own if you have got open wounds on your head or face.
How to prevent dry skin and dandruff?
You can always prevent dry skin or dandruff by taking some preventive measures such as:
- Use mild shampoos and steer away from irritating shampoos.
- It is recommended to use moisturizing shampoos.
- Increase gap between shampooing the hair.
- Drink more water.
- Use a humidifier.
Hope this guide helps you in managing dry skin and dandruff and have a healthy scalp and hair.
