
05/17/2023
HOW DO YOU KNOW IF IT IS DANDRUFF OR SEBORRHEIC DERMATITIS?
What is the difference between dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis?
A dry flaky scalp is often due to seborrheic dermatitis, commonly known as dandruff. Dandruff is a milder form of seborrheic dermatitis restricted to the scalp. Dandruff typically lacks visible inflammation, while seborrheic dermatitis is thought to be associated with an inflammatory response to malassezia, a yeast on the skin. Other causes of a dry, flaky scalp include dry skin or eczema, and eczema on the scalp is sometimes due to a sensitivity to hair care products called contact dermatitis.
How do you know if you have seborrheic dermatitis versus just ordinary dandruff?
An unhealthy scalp, in general, can include redness, itching, irritation and flaking. However, a few clues that you’re suffering from seborrheic dermatitis can also consist of flaking and redness around the eyebrows, ears and nose!