Beauty

Dandruff Vs Dry Scalp: Difference Between The Two Kinds Of Flakes

Sharon Alphonso  |  Jun 18, 2023
Dandruff Vs Dry Scalp: Difference Between The Two Kinds Of Flakes

One of the biggest hair woes I experience during the monsoons is dandruff. The excessive humidity levels in the air cause bacteria and fungi to form on the scalp and that leads to itchiness and flakes. But on the flip side, there’s another cause of white flakes on the scalp and it isn’t necessarily dandruff as much as it is considered to be a dry scalp condition.

From afar, the two white flakes look similar, but they differ in size and texture and more. Let’s get to know more about dandruff and dry scalp and understand how the two are different scalp concerns so that the right treatment can be followed.

The Key Difference Between Dry scalp And Dandruff

What Is A Dry Scalp?

To put it simply, this means that your scalp lacks moisture. Due to the lack of moisture, your scalp becomes irritated, inflamed and itchy. A dry scalp is also an indication that other body parts like your elbows, arms, feet, and legs are dry too. So, what is the cause of a dry scalp? Multiple things, to be honest.

Cold air, dermatitis, over-washing, or age. Excessive product and dirt buildup trigger the scalp to shed dead skin. Although these dead skin flakes look like dandruff, they aren’t. They’re smaller and drier. Just to be sure, moisturise your scalp at night and wash your scalp in the morning. If it’s a dry scalp, the flakes will disappear after the wash. If not, read on!

What Is Dandruff?

Seborrheic dermatitis is responsible for dandruff. In fact, it is this condition that makes your scalp oily, red, and flaky. It causes the scalp to shed off white or yellow flakes known as dandruff. Unlike the dry scalp, dandruff is caused due to fungal infection and requires treatment to go away. When you have dandruff, you will also notice a change in hair texture. The hair becomes greasy, dull, and oily.

There Are Similarities Between The Two

However, the similarities between dry scalp and dandruff are that both of them cause severe itchiness and irritation in the scalp. Scratching the scalp often can also cause sores and bleeding. Invest in a good quality anti-dandruff shampoo or try home remedies like tea tree oil or apple cider vinegar to treat dandruff. If haircare products and home treatments don’t work against dandruff and you continue to spot sores on the scalp, you must loop in your doctor ASAP. 

Pick The Right Anti-Dandruff Haircare Range

The St.Botanica Anti-Dandruff Pre-Biotic Scalp Serum is a must-have if you want instant relief from dandruff. It works to soothe and clarify the scalp so that the dandruff-causing bacteria cannot thrive.

The St.Botanica Anti-Dandruff Pre-Biotic Shampoo is one of the best clarifying shampoos in the market currently. Not only does it lather well to give a satisfying cleanse, but it’s also formulated without harsh chemicals so that your hair and scalp don’t get damaged.

The St.Botanica Anti-Dandruff Pre-Biotic Conditioner can be used on hair lengths and the scalp too. It’s formulated to soothe the scalp while getting rid of all traces of dandruff.

Unfortunately, dandruff is not curable. If treated, it will occur again someday in the future. For dry scalp, avoid washing your hair with shampoo too often. Thrice a week should be more than enough. Also, try not expose your hair or scalp to the sun when it’s the harshest (12 pm – 3 pm).

Featured Image: Instagram

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