introduction

Many people see flakes on their scalp and say, "I have dandruff," when sometimes the problem is dry scalp, not dandruff. This difference is very important because the treatment differs.

• Treating dandruff depends on regulating the scalp and reducing oily flakes.
• Treating dryness involves soothing, moisturizing, and reducing drying.
  In this article, we explain how to easily differentiate between them, and then we give you a practical routine for each case.

First: How to tell the difference quickly? (Simple test)

Look at the flakes + scalp sensation:

If the skin is oily (especially the rind)

• Larger, more visible scales that may be sticky
• The scalp may be oily
• The itching may be moderate to severe.
• Sometimes flakes appear quickly, just a day after washing.

If the scalp is dry

• Small, scattered "powdery" flakes
• A feeling of tightness and dryness
• The itching is usually milder and increases after showering.
• It increases in winter or with hot water

If you have severe redness, very thick scales, or pain, it may be another skin condition (eczema/psoriasis) and you need a medical evaluation.

Why does each one happen?

Causes of dandruff

• Oily scalp + scalp imbalance
• N