Although they show the same symptoms, they have very different treatment plans.
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Reader question: Help for dry winter scalp!
Dandruff shampoos only make it worse.
What Is Dry Scalp?
What Is Dandruff?
While dry scalp is sparked by a lack of moisture, dandruff is triggered by excess oil production.
“A yeast found on the skin called Malassezia can contribute to the inflammatory response in seborrhea.
This yeast feeds on sebum and therefore thrives in oily areas.”
(Note: This is why most of thebest anti-dandruff shampooshave antifungal properties.)
With a dry scalp, the flakes are usually white specks, while dandruff is tinted yellow.
In other words, the excess oil causes microscopic dead skin cells to stick together in clumps.
Instead, opt for formulas infused with hydrating ingredients likehyaluronic acid.
Condition your scalp
In addition to shampoo, a weeklyscalp maskand/or conditioning treatment can also help.
The climate is another major culprit behind dryness, so pay attention to excessive sun exposure.
It’s one of the bestdrugstore shampoosfor treating dandruff.
Learn how you could give a shot to minimize the chances you develop these conditions in the first place.
Hydrationeither by drinking more water or using a humidifiercan also help reduce the risk of dry scalp.
Frequently Asked Questions
you could use a multi-pronged plan of attack for keeping your scalp hydrated.
Use moisturizing hair products, including scalp masks, to help put moisture right where it’s needed.
You may need prescription products to help you get your dandruff or dry scalp under control.
You may want to rule outcontact dermatitisan allergic reaction to something put on your skin.
Sunburncan also be a potential cause.
Psoriasisis another common condition that could cause flakes.
Acitinic keratosiscan also cause scaly patches on your scalp.
