A dry, flaky scalp or dandruff can be not only inconvenient and embarrassing but it can also be accompanied by discomfort such as tightness, itching, and stinging. If thoughts like ‘why is my scalp itchy,’ or ‘what are the causes of itchy scalp?’ are bothering you, read ahead to learn the causes of a dry, flaky scalp and dandruff; and discover ways to alleviate symptoms and potentially prevent scalp issues.
Dandruff vs. Dry Scalp: What's The Difference?
Understanding the differences between dandruff and a dry, flaky scalp is crucial for effective treatment of these flaky scalp issues. Explore the causes behind these conditions to better address them.
Dandruff doesn't necessarily correlate with your skin type and often differs from the small white flakes associated with a naturally dry, flaky scalp. Dry skin tends to coincide with a dry appearance of the hair, but dandruff isn't linked to specific skin types. Therefore, you might experience either oily or dry hair alongside a flaky scalp. This distinction is crucial because treating dandruff differs from addressing a dry, flaky scalp.
What is Dandruff?
Both humans and animals shed skin, hair, fur, or feathers naturally. This process is called "dander," which is possibly how the term "dandruff" got its name. Typically, these small cells shed invisibly, floating into the air to become dust. Dandruff occurs when these dead skin cells accumulate on the skin's surface, forming noticeable white flakes. Eventually, these flakes detach from the skin and gather along the hair fiber, strands and on shoulders.
Causes Of Dandruff
Dandruff isn't solely a result of dry skin build-up. It's associated with various factors, including the existence of a natural fungus on the scalp's surface. A scalp affected by this condition tends to be highly sensitive to hair care products, often causing sensations of tightness and itchiness. In severe instances, it might display patches of redness. While all skin types naturally shed as part of its renewal process, individuals with dandruff experience these cells clustering together, leading to distinct white flakes, irrespective of how frequently you wash your hair. Experiencing dandruff in winter is more common as dry air can strip the scalp of its natural oils, leading to dehydration and flakiness.
Dandruff Treatment
For a gentle way to eliminate flaky dandruff without causing scalp irritation, opt for a mild clarifying product such as the Scalp Advanced Anti-Dandruff Dermo-Clarifier Shampoo, specifically designed for treating dandruff. Consistent use of this product can aid in restoring the skin's moisture balance and reducing the formation of visible flakes.
What is a Dry, Flaky Scalp?
Much like inheriting eye or hair colour, genetics also determine our inherent skin type, which can range from oily, sensitive, combination, normal to dry. Dry skin stems from the skin's inability to generate sufficient sebum and natural oils, leading to dehydration of the skin's top layer. Consequently, this layer dries out, cracks, and sheds as fine flakes, appearing as small white flakes on the scalp and in the hair. A flaky and itchy scalp often signals this condition, whereas dandruff typically doesn't irritate.
Causes of Dry, Itchy Scalp
A naturally dry skin type, hormonal imbalances, and certain medications can contribute to a dry scalp. Like a dry complexion, a dry scalp often feels tight and uncomfortable, leading to frizzy and lacklustre hair due to insufficient oil production. This sets it apart from dandruff-related conditions, where the hair might seem oily while still exhibiting flakiness simultaneously.
Another cause of an itchy, flaky scalp is seborrheic dermatitis, which typically emerges in areas of the body where oil production is high, commonly affecting the scalp, upper back, and nose. It can be triggered by factors like stress, hormones, skin irritants, cold weather, and certain medications. Recognisable symptoms include redness, excessive oiliness, white or yellowish flakes on the scalp, inflamed pink patches, and a sensation of burning or scalp itchiness.
Additionally, another factor contributing to an itchy, flaky scalp could be psoriasis, an enduring autoimmune condition triggered by an accelerated multiplication of skin cells. Consequently, these cells accumulate into red, cracked, and sometimes painful scales. On the scalp, this accumulation might hinder new hair growth, leading to noticeable hair thinning around the affected area.
Dry Scalp Treatment
Replenishing your scalp's natural moisture isn't as straightforward as moisturising your skin. Directly applying an emollient on the scalp might leave your hair feeling greasy and lifeless. The remedy lies in using hair care products tailored for sensitive scalps, such as the Scalp Advanced Anti-Discomfort Dermo-Regulator Shampoo, Anti-Discomfort Lipid Shield Pre-Treatment, and the Intense Soother Treatment. Begin with applying the shampoo, create a rich lather, and rinse thoroughly. Follow it up with the treatment products (based on your concern) for optimal scalp care. All these products are specially crafted for sensitive itchy scalp.
Keep the above-mentioned things in mind and for professional help and further assistance regarding product details, usage, and more, and visit the nearest salon to let the L’Oréal Professionnel hair experts address your delicate locks in the right way. Our hair pros will provide the best dandruff treatments and dry scalp treatments to truly make a difference and help you flaunt the hair of your dreams.