Dandruff vs. Seborrheic Dermatitis
The dead skin that flakes off from the scalp is known as dandruff. It typically worsens during the winter due to dryness and dust. This condition causes the scalp to itch. However, when excessive dandruff occurs, it is referred to as seborrheic dermatitis.
There is a difference between dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. In the case of dandruff, dead skin flakes will come off from the scalp, but there will be no inflammation on the scalp. However, if there is dandruff along with inflammation on the scalp, then it cannot be called just dandruff — it must be referred to as seborrheic dermatitis.
Although it may not be possible to completely eliminate dandruff, it can be kept under control with the use of anti-dandruff shampoo. Excessive dandruff can lead to increased hair fall.
Many people believe that applying more oil to the scalp is necessary when dealing with dandruff. However, this idea is incorrect.
Using oil keeps the scalp constantly oily and moist, which creates an environment where a type of fungus can thrive and settle on the scalp.
Some people use mustard cake to tackle dandruff, but this is also not correct. Using mustard cake causes dandruff to stick even more to the scalp. As a result, it may seem like the dandruff has decreased.
What to Do
Those who have dandruff should avoid keeping their scalp moist. Instead, ensure that the scalp remains clean and dry at all times. Wet hair should not be tied up. Additionally, individuals with dandruff should avoid sharing their combs with others, as the fungus causing dandruff can transfer from one person’s scalp to another.
If scaly, reddish patches are observed on areas of the body with oil-producing glands, such as the skin of the scalp, the center of the chest, behind the ears, the folds beside the nose, the eyebrows, the lips, underarms, and other hairy areas, it should be assumed that it is indeed seborrheic dermatitis.
Sometimes, the eyelids can also be affected by this condition. In such cases, the eyelids may become reddish, and small white flakes resembling dead skin may appear. Areas with facial hair, such as the beard and mustache, can also be affected.
In seborrheic dermatitis, external germs can sometimes attack the affected areas. In such cases, the condition may resemble eczema in appearance.
Another condition that often resembles dandruff is psoriasis. If someone has scalp psoriasis, it may appear as though they have a severe case of dandruff on their head.
However, the difference between the two lies in the nature of the flakes: in seborrheic dermatitis, the flakes are oily, whereas in psoriasis, the flakes are dry and silvery in color. For instance, in scalp psoriasis, distinct patches are visible along the hairline. On the other hand, in dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis, no such noticeable patches are typically seen.
Treatment
The treatment for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis is almost the same. Dandruff can be reduced by using anti-dandruff shampoos, such as those containing zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, or ketoconazole. If there is significant inflammation, applying a low-strength cortisone lotion or gel can yield good results. If the condition does not improve even after this, it is advisable to consult an experienced dermatologist.
