While they can look similar, they actually are quite different. Here’s a breakdown of dandruff vs. dry scalp:
Dandruff
“Dandruff is a mild form of a skin condition called seborrheic dermatitis, and is limited to the scalp,” explains Dr. Iris Rubin, MD, dermatologist and Founder of SEEN Hair Care. “Dandruff typically lacks visible inflammation. (More advanced seborrheic dermatitis can cause redness, as well as flaking that extends to the ears and face.)”
Dry scalp
The biggest difference between dandruff and dry scalp is that dry scalp is not related to seborrheic dermatitis. “Dry scalp is simply dry scalp skin that can lead to flaking and itching,” Rubin says. “Irritants on the scalp can also contribute to dry scalp.”
What Causes Dandruff and Dry Scalp?
If you suspect you have dandruff or dry scalp, it’s important to know that they are caused by different things, which may help you determine which one you are dealing with. “While we do not completely understand all of the causes of dandruff, we do know that the oils on our skin (sebum), a friendly yeast that lives there (Malassezia), and our sensitivity to the interaction between the two can all play a role in how likely we are to get dandruff,” says Dr. Caroline Robinson, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Tone Dermatology. “Dandruff can have a variety of symptoms and appearances but most commonly greasy white to yellow flakes and itching are present,” says Dr. Robinson. What about dry scalp? “Dry scalp is due to dry skin, just like the rest of your body,” says Dr. Rubin. However, it can be exacerbated by other conditions and products applied to the scalp. “Eczema can also lead to a dry scalp, and this can be exacerbated by sensitivity to hair-care products, which is called contact dermatitis,” says Dr. Rubin. “Harsh ingredients such as sulfates found in shampoo can lead to dry scalp. Though designed to wash away dirt and product build-up, these cleansing agents can also strip your scalp (and hair) of the natural oils that help maintain hydration, which can be a key trigger for dryness, itching and flaking.”
How to Treat Dandruff and Dry Scalp
It’s important to know if you are experiencing dandruff or dry scalp, as they are treated differently. “The symptoms of dandruff and dry scalp can be very similar, but the causes are different, which is why the treatments are different,” says Dr. Rubin. To treat dandruff, there are many topical options to use. “There are several over-the-counter medicated dandruff shampoos with active ingredients like ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, salicylic acid and zinc pyrithione,” says Dr. Rubin. “A prescription-based shampoo may be necessary for some, and washing the hair more often can also be beneficial.” Dr. Robinson recommends Neutrogena Scalp Therapy Anti-Dandruff shampoo, which has four different salicylic acid formulas to effectively help with flakes and control many of the symptoms of dandruff. Dry scalp: “Dry scalp responds better to gentle, non-irritating, sulfate-free shampoos, as opposed to medicated shampoos typically used for dandruff,” says Dr. Rubin. And if you aren’t sure which product is causing your dry scalp, start eliminating one at a time. “It can sometimes be difficult to identify the cause of scalp dryness, however, I often encourage patients to modify one thing at a time, whether it be wash frequency or product, to start the journey to relief,” says Dr. Robinson.
How to Prevent Dandruff and Dry Scalp
There are easy ways to stop dandruff and dry scalp from taking over. “One of the best ways to prevent dandruff is to pay attention to your haircare,” Dr. Rubin says. She adds that washing your hair more frequently can help. “Avoid products with heavy oils. Consider using a dandruff shampoo regularly for prevention if you are prone to dandruff.” The same goes for avoiding dry scalp: Take a look at your haircare products. “Dry scalp can be prevented simply by using the proper haircare products. Consider going sulfate-free, and using shampoos and styling products that are formulated with gentle, soothing, nourishing ingredients that care for scalp skin,” says Dr. Rubin. And be vigilant about how your scalp responds to different products. “To be preventative of scalp dryness, it is important to continually pay attention to how your scalp feels wash to wash, season to season, and year to year and make changes as needed to soothe the scalp skin,” says Dr. Robinson. Finally, don’t be afraid to see a dermatologist if your dandruff or scalp dryness does not improve. “It’s important to remember that the distinction between dandruff and dry scalp is not always significant–some patients with dandruff can have drier scalps and vice versa,” adds Dr. Robinson. “Therefore, if you have persistent dryness, itching, or flaking it is important to consider visiting a board-certified dermatologist.” Next up: How to Take Care of Your Dry Skin
Sources
Dr. Iris Rubin, MD, dermatologist and Founder of SEEN Hair CareDr. Caroline Robinson, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Tone Dermatology
