Hey there, ladies…if you're dealing with a flaky scalp, you might think it's dandruff. But hold your horses. It could actually be a sign of dry scalp. Sure, they both share similar symptoms, like the annoying itch and falling flakes, but they're not the same thing.
When your scalp is dry, it gets ticked off and starts shedding like crazy. On the other hand, dandruff is due to too much oil and an uninvited guest named malassezia, the yeast causing all the mayhem. But don't despair - while dandruff can't be totally cured, you can manage its symptoms with a specialised shampoo. So, to help you understand which one of the two you have - dry scalp or dandruff, we’re about to tell you the differentiating factors: right from causes to the possible next steps for a flake-free and itch-free tomorrow! Scroll for an info stroll.
Causes of Dandruff and Dry Scalp
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Causes of Dandruff
Well, for those who know dandruff has long been associated with poor personal hygiene, but the truth is that it can happen to anyone. It is caused by overactive sebaceous glands and an overgrowth of fungus. This fungus, combined with excess oil, causes microscopic dead skin cells to stick together in clumps that present themselves as tiny white flakes. While scalp fungus is normal and typically controlled by the immune system, factors like low vitamin D3 or ferritin, genetic history, an inflammatory diet, aggravating hair and scalp products, or allergies can lower the scalp immune state and allow fungus to thrive. Stress can also be a factor in dandruff, as it can take a toll on your scalp health. Psychological stress, like relationship trouble or work deadlines, or physical stress, like having a cold or being run down, can all contribute to the war against white flakes. So, keep your radar on high alert for the often overlooked troubles can also cause the dandruff drama.
Causes of Dry Scalp
Don't let a dry and itchy scalp cramp your style! While environmental factors such as climate and sun exposure can play a role, there are other potential culprits that may surprise you. Medical conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and seborrheic dermatitis can cause inflammation and flaking, resulting in a parched scalp. To an extent, even certain medications used to treat common ailments like acne and high blood pressure can contribute to dryness. If you're experiencing persistent irritation, it's essential to consult with a dermatologist who can help you identify the root cause and provide targeted treatment options. In the meantime, pamper your scalp with gentle, hydrating hair care products and ease up on the shampoo to prevent further dryness. And prep to goodbye to a dry scalp and hello to healthy, happy hair!
Prevention and Treatment for Dandruff
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Use a dandruff shampoo
Looking to get rid of pesky dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis? It's recommended to use a shampoo formulated specifically for this purpose at least two times a week. These shampoos contain salicylic acid, ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, or selenium sulphide, which work to decrease oil and fungus, resulting in fewer flakes on your scalp. Using such shampoos on a regular basis can help you achieve better results. If you’re on the hunt for an A1 select we’re all for the Dove Dandruff Care Shampoo and Conditioner. This duo is loaded with a blend of nourishing ingredients that work together to keep your scalp healthy and your hair looking beautiful. Infused with active pyrithione zinc, the shampoo effectively targets dandruff, relieving the scalp of itching, and flaking. The conditioner is enriched with a blend of natural oils - including coconut and sunflower, which work to hydrate and nourish hair.
Up your omega-3 intake
If you're struggling with dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis, try upping your intake of omega-3s. Omega-3s can help regulate oil production, reducing fungal growth and flaking on the scalp. You can increase your intake of omega-3s by eating foods such as salmon, chia seeds, and walnuts or by taking supplements. By giving your hair the nutrients it needs, you may be able to reduce the frequency of flaking.
Invest in tea tree oil
Tea tree oil has long been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, and its benefits extend to scalp care as well. By incorporating hair products that contain tea tree oil, you can potentially help soothe an irritated scalp, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy hair growth. One way to introduce tea tree to your hair care regime can also be through the shampoo and conditioner combo; the Love Beauty & Planet Radical Refresher Shampoo and Conditioner with Tea Tree and Vetiver Aroma Tress Keratin - I am a fan, btw!
Prevention and Treatment for Dry Scalp
Bid the dryness adieu for we’re here to your rescue.
Eliminate products with alcohol as the main ingredient
Alcohol is a common ingredient found in many hair care products, but did you know that excessive amounts of alcohol can be harmful to your hair? When alcohol is the main ingredient, it can be particularly worrisome, leading to dryness, breakage, and even hair loss. To avoid these issues, it's important to be mindful of the hair care products you're using. When searching for the best products to meet your hair goals, make sure to check the first five to ten ingredients to ensure that alcohol is not a primary ingredient. By doing so, you can help protect your scalp and hair ends from damage. So, keep an eye out!
Cut down the washe
Limit your hair wash to 2-3 times a week. Itchy scalp can be directly related to what kind of shampoos you use, their ingredients and how many times you wash your hair. Too much shampooing can make your scalp dry and itchy. Also keep the volume of your hair in mind. Thin, brittle hair don’t need frequent washing.
Use gentle shampoos and conditioners
A dry scalp can be caused by irritation, and one way to combat this is by using ultra-gentle shampoos and conditioners. When choosing gentle shampoos, it's important to avoid harsh ingredients like fragrance and essential oils, and opt for hydrating and soothing ingredients like aloe vera and oat milk instead. In the same content, you can also use a good leave-on product like the Dove Hair Therapy Dry Scalp Care Sulphate-Free Leave-on Solution. Pampering your locks up to the cellular level, this niacinamide enriched portion is all things amazing and hydrating.
FAQs about Dry Scalp VS Dandruff …
Putting your queries to rest!
Q1 Does dandruff lead to hair loss?
Dandruff itself does not cause hair loss. However, severe dandruff can cause a person to scratch their scalp so hard that they injure it. Repeated inflammation in the hair follicles can cause damage and scarring, slowing or stopping hair growth. This can cause weak or thinning hair.
Q2. Can sharing combs or brushes lead to dandruff?
Yes, refrain from sharing your combs and brushes regularly as that can hamper the quality of your locks. How? When you comb through your hair, the teeth of your comb may make the dirt and oils from someone else’s mane. This transfer can cause issues and infections — one of them being, itchy scalp.
Written by Team BB on Apr 15, 2023