It could be quite annoying seeing tiny white specks around your shoulders especially when wearing black clothes. Having dandruff or dry scalp can be a little frustrating and could damper your confidence.
But how do you really know if you’re suffering from dandruff or just dry scalp? Do you know the difference between them? If not, then let’s find out what.
What is dandruff?
Dandruff is basically the flaking of your scalp. It is a common type of skin condition known as seborrheic dermatitis. Dandruff can only be seen on the scalp but the seborrheic dermatitis can happen on other parts of the body as well.
The common mild cases of seborrheic dermatitis look like scaly or flaky patches and can have underlying redness sometimes. It is usually found behind the ears, on the scalp and around the nostrils and the eyebrows. It may also appear on the chest and the whole face.
What is Dry Scalp?
A dry scalp is a type of dry skin that can be associated with itching and scaling. It can be hereditary and gets worse as you age. It can also be associated with a non-contagious dry skin problem called eczema. Eczema commonly presents itself as scaly or rough patches on the skin. It can also vary in every person.
Telling the difference
Mild cases of dandruff and dry scalp can behave and look similar. A proper diagnosis is needed to properly cure either condition.
Consult a professional if you suffer scaling and redness as well as when symptoms still persists even with good skin care. A prescription of more intense topical anti-inflammatory for flares can also be given.
Proper Prevention
You can begin by having a gentle skin care habit of showering with warm water and then applying moisturizer both the body and face within 2 minutes of bathing.
Use of medicated shampoos containing zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide or ketoconazole three times per week is also suggested. Make sure that you live the product on the hair for almost five minutes. This can help maintain clear scalp and prevent from occurring. Anti-inflammatory medications can also be prescribed when more severe cases happen.