Do you also have dry, itchy scalp? Let's talk about dry scalp.

Sometimes your head itches so much, right? It's unbearable. Then, when you put on a black dress, you see white flakes on your shoulders, which is not good for you. Many people think that this is dandruff. But is dandruff always the cause? Maybe you have a condition called dry scalp. Let's see what the difference is between the two, what causes it, what you can do at home, and when you should see a doctor.

Are dandruff and dry scalp the same thing?

Yes, these are two conditions. Many people confuse the two because both involve scratching the head and flaking. But the cause is completely different.

Simply put, dandruff occurs when there is too much oil (sebum) on the scalp. This excess oil causes skin cells to clump together, clump together, and slough off in flakes. The scalp of someone with dandruff may appear red and oily. The flakes that come off are also larger.

However, dry scalp is the other side of it. That is, when the skin loses moisture. Just like the skin on the rest of our body dries out. The scales that fall off here are usually smaller than those on the scalp.

To make it easier to understand, let's look at the difference between the two in a table.

Why does our scalp get so dry?

There may be simple reasons for this, as well as medical reasons that require some attention.

Simple and common reasons

• The products you use: Some harsh shampoos, conditioners, and gels can strip the scalp of its natural oils, causing dryness. This is called contact dermatitis.
• Environment: Being in a very cold, dry climate can dry out the skin. In our country, this can affect people who are constantly in air-conditioned (AC) rooms.
• Age: Just as the skin on the whole body becomes drier as we age, the scalp also begins to dry out.
• Not rinsing the shampoo thoroughly: If shampoo is not rinsed off properly after washing your hair and remains on your scalp, it can also dry out your scalp and cause itchiness.

Medical reasons to be concerned

Sometimes this can be a symptom of a skin disease.

1. Psoriasis: This is a long-term skin disease. In this condition, skin cells grow at a rapid rate, build up on top of each other, and form red plaques with silvery scales. This can also affect the scalp.

2. Tinea capitis: This is a fungal infection of the scalp. Some people also call it `scalp ringworm`. It can be contagious. It can be spread by sharing items such as towels, combs, hats, or by touching an infected person or animal.

3. Actinic keratosis (AK): This is a precancerous condition that occurs when the skin is exposed to the sun. Men who have lost their hair and are balding are at higher risk of developing this condition because they are not protected from the sun. People over the age of 50 who spend a lot of time in the sun are also at higher risk.

Okay, what do you do with this now?

Treatment depends on what's causing your dry scalp.

First, you can try some simple things at home.

• Changing shampoo: Switch to a mild, moisturizing shampoo.
• Rinse thoroughly: After bathing your head, rinse with water until the shampoo is completely gone.
• Stop using the product: If you think this is caused by a new product, try stopping using it for a few days.

When you see a doctor, he will find out the cause and prescribe the necessary treatment. The treatment will vary depending on the cause.

• For psoriasis: Corticosteroid-like creams, special medicated shampoos, lotions containing salicylic acid to soften scales, creams containing vitamin D, light therapy, or oral medications may be prescribed.
• Tinea capitis (fungal infection): Oral antifungal medication, special medicated shampoos, and ointments may be prescribed.
• For actinic keratosis (AK): Treatments such as special creams, minor surgery such as cryotherapy, which uses liquid nitrogen to remove cells, or photodynamic therapy may be recommended.

What can be done to prevent this situation from happening again?

Making small changes to your lifestyle can go a long way in controlling this condition.

• Choose a gentle shampoo: As we mentioned before, use a shampoo that is gentle on your scalp and retains moisture.
• Avoid washing your hair too often: Washing your hair every day can strip your scalp of its natural oils. Washing it every day or two may be enough.
• Manage stress: It may seem surprising, but stress affects many skin diseases.
• Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated internally is very important for skin health.
• Avoid smoking: Smoking causes dry skin and premature aging.

When should you see a doctor?

If home remedies do not help, or if you have any of the following symptoms, be sure to see a doctor.

• If you have persistent, unbearable itching .
• If there are red spots or patches on the scalp.
• If the scalp is swollen and feels hot or painful when touched .

At times like this, a dermatologist can accurately diagnose whether you have a simple condition or a serious skin disease and provide you with a treatment plan that's right for you.