What is Dandruff?
Dandruff is a common scalp condition that affects people of all ages. It has characterized by the shedding of dead skin cells from the scalp. The main symptom of dandruff is an itchy scalp. This can happen for various reasons, including an overgrowth of yeast on the scalp, an imbalance in the natural oils on the scalp, or a reaction to a new hair care product. Dandruff can be a nuisance, but it is not serious. It can cause the scalp to itch, and the flakes can be visible on the hair and clothing. Dandruff flakes are large and oily, while dry scalp flakes are small and dry. Another difference is the itch factor.
It is safe to say that no one is immune to dandruff. 50% of the world’s population is affected by dandruff at some point. Dandruff is a common scalp condition that is characterized by flaking and itchiness. Dandruff is a chronic condition that can be difficult to treat. Dandruff does not cause hair loss. While it is not a severe condition, it can be a source of embarrassment for many people.
There are a variety of shampoos available to control dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. Many contain one or more: selenium sulfide, zinc pyrithione, salicylic acid, ketoconazole, and coal tar. Selenium sulfide (Selsun Blue, Head & Shoulders Intensive Treatment) is available without a prescription. Selenium sulfide works by slowing down the rate at which skin cells grow and die.
What is Dry Scalp?
A dry scalp is a common cause of dandruff. When the scalp is dry, the skin cells can become brittle and flake off. This can be caused by various things, including cold weather, low humidity, and over washing. It can also be a symptom of a more severe condition, such as eczema or psoriasis. The skin on the scalp is constantly shedding dead skin cells.
When the scalp is dry, these cells do not fall off as they should. Instead, they build up and form flakes. A dry scalp can also be caused by harsh shampoos, aging, or certain medical conditions. Several things can be done to treat a dry scalp, including using a dandruff shampoo, avoiding hot showers, and using a humidifier.
A few things can be done to help control a dry scalp, including drinking plenty of water, using a mild shampoo, using a humidifier, and avoiding hot showers. If still there might have a dry scalp, consult with the doctor to rule out any other possible conditions.
Difference Between Dandruff and Dry Scalp
There are a few key things to look for when determining if there is dandruff or a dry scalp. Dandruff is characterized by itchiness and excessive flaking. If the scalp is dry, it may be due to a lack of moisture. A dry scalp is the result of using too much shampoo, not shampooing enough, or using harsh shampoos.
In addition to dandruff, people may also experience a dry scalp. While a dry scalp can be a symptom of dandruff, the two conditions are not the same. There is a common misconception that dandruff and dry scalp are synonymous. Although both conditions can make scalp itch, they are two different conditions with different causes. Dandruff is characterized by white flakes on the scalp, while dry scalp refers to a scalp that lacks moisture.
Comparison Between Dandruff and Dry Scalp
| Parameter of Comparison | Dandruff | Dry Scalp |
| How to Identify | Tinted yellow. | The flakes are white specks |
| Causes | Presence of Malassezia globosa, a naturally occurring fungus that lives on the scalp surface | Because of hormonal conditions |
| Symptoms | Flakes as a common symptom | Flakes as a common symptom |
| Dry skin on other parts of your body | No | Yes |
| Oily Skin | Yes | No |
| Itchy scalp | Yes | Yes |