If not oily hair, ladies are likely to complain quite a bit about dandruff and dry scalp. These are widespread pores and skin issues that many ladies have. Whereas dry scalp and dandruff could appear related, they’re completely different issues because of the way in which they feel and appear. So how will you know the distinction between them? Learn on to search out out the distinction between dandruff and dry scalp.
What causes dry scalp
When there’s a lack of moisture, usually on account of harsh climate situations similar to chilly and dry air, your scalp can get dry, shares Dr Vijay Singhal, Senior dermatologist, Sri Balaji Motion Medical Institute, Delhi.
Listed below are some extra causes:
• Extreme washing with scorching water and powerful shampoos can strip the scalp of its pure oils, resulting in dryness.
• Pores and skin situations similar to eczema and psoriasis may additionally contribute to a dry scalp, as they disrupt the pores and skin’s pure barrier perform.
• A poor weight loss plan missing important vitamins can play a job in dry scalp growth.
What causes dandruff?
Dry scalp is extra of a hydration concern whereas dandruff is primarily on account of an overgrowth of a yeast-like fungus known as Malassezia on the scalp. This overgrowth may end up from an oily scalp, which gives a perfect atmosphere for Malassezia to thrive, explains the knowledgeable.
Different elements that may contribute to dandruff embrace:
• Sensitivity to hair care merchandise
• Rare shampooing
• Pores and skin situations like seborrheic dermatitis.
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Dry scalp vs dandruff
To establish when you have a dry scalp or dandruff, you’ll be able to search for the next:
1. Scalp flakes
Look at the flakes carefully, and in the event that they grow to be small, white and dry, they’re probably dandruff. If the flakes are bigger and look extra like dry pores and skin, it could be a dry scalp concern.
2. Scalp moisture
Contact the scalp and see the way it feels. A dry scalp usually feels tight and lacks moisture, whereas dandruff is related to extra oiliness and greasiness, says Dr Singhal.
3. Itchiness
Do you end up scratching your head or feeling itchy on the scalp? Persistent itching is commonly a symptom of dandruff, whereas a dry scalp could or could not itch.
4. Flake adherence
Verify how properly the flakes adhere to the scalp. Dandruff flakes have a tendency to stay to the hair shafts, whereas dry scalp flakes are extra loosely connected and simply fall off.
When unsure, seek the advice of a dermatologist who can look at the scalp and inform you if it’s dry scalp or dandruff.
deal with dandruff and dry scalp?
Treating dry scalp and dandruff additionally require completely different approaches. For dry scalp, give attention to growing moisture. Use a gentle, moisturising shampoo and conditioner, keep away from scorching water, and cut back shampoo frequency. So, in the event you wash your hair every single day, it is advisable cease doing that. Making use of pure oils like coconut or jojoba to the scalp also can assist to hydrate it. When you have pores and skin situations like eczema and psoriasis, it is advisable work in the direction of their remedy to keep away from dry scalp as properly.
As for dandruff, it may be managed with medicated shampoos containing substances like zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole, selenium sulfide or salicylic acid. These type of shampoos may help in controlling the overgrowth of Malassezia. Common shampooing, however not every single day, and sustaining good scalp hygiene are additionally important.
The widespread factor in each instances is that it is advisable observe a balanced weight loss plan that’s wealthy in nutritional vitamins and minerals.
