In this blog, I’ll explain what dandruff and a dry scalp are, the difference between the two, and how you can manage them effectively.
What is dandruff?
Dandruff is a common scalp condition that causes flaking of the skin. Sometimes it appears as large chunks, and other times as small flakes. It can affect the whole scalp or just certain areas.
One of the main culprits behind dandruff is a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia. This fungus lives on most adult scalps and feeds on the natural oils produced by your skin. While it’s usually harmless, in some people it can trigger irritation that leads to dandruff.
What causes dandruff?
- Cold weather
- Stress
- An excessively oily scalp
- Product build-up
- Skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or ringworm
How can I treat dandruff?
Start with regular washing using a good-quality shampoo and conditioner. If you find that conditioner makes your dandruff worse, try a lightweight conditioner and only apply it to the ends of your hair—avoid the scalp.
If your dandruff is more severe, try a medicated shampoo. These are often stronger, so use them in moderation—alternate with your regular shampoo to avoid over-drying.
As a hairdresser, I don’t usually recommend shampoos like Head & Shoulders. While they might seem effective, they can be quite harsh and strip your scalp of its natural oils. Instead, try one of these:
- L’Oréal Professionnel Serie Expert Scalp Advanced Anti-Dandruff Dermo Clarifier
- Philip Kingsley Flaky/Itchy Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
What is a dry scalp?
A dry scalp happens when the skin loses too much moisture and doesn’t produce enough oil to stay hydrated. This can also make your hair feel dry and brittle.
What causes a dry scalp?
- Weather (especially sun exposure without a hat or heat protection)
- Age
- Harsh or drying hair products
How can I treat a dry scalp?
Use gentle, hydrating shampoos and conditioners, and always apply a heat protectant before blow-drying. Avoid going to bed with wet hair, imagine not drying your hands after washing them they would be so dry!
Weekly deep conditioning treatments can help restore shine and moisture to your hair. You can also use a scalp toner directly on your scalp and massage it in to soothe and hydrate. Here are a couple I recommend:
- Philip Kingsley Density Stimulating Scalp Toner (150ml)
- Philip Kingsley Stimulating Daily Scalp Toner (250ml)
What’s the difference between dandruff and a dry scalp?
It can be tricky to tell the difference, as both cause itching and flaking. The key distinction is this:
- Dandruff is usually caused by excess oil and the build-up of skin cells on the scalp.
- Dry scalp is due to a lack of moisture.
People with a dry scalp may also experience dryness in other parts of their body.