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Learn the difference between scalp eczema and dandruff and how to treat them. They are both common problems that cause the scalp to become irritated and inflamed. Scalp eczema causes red, scaly patches and intense itching, while dandruff causes white or yellow flakes. We will explain the difference between them, their treatment methods, diagnosis, and how to treat them.
What is scalp eczema
Eczema is a condition that causes rashes and redness in various areas of the body. Scalp eczema, also known as seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp, manifests as irritation, itching, and redness of the scalp.
What is dandruff
Dandruff is a common skin condition that affects the scalp. These flakes combine with oils and dirt to form dandruff. It occurs as a result of excessive shedding of dead skin cells from the scalp, disrupting their natural life cycle. These flakes appear as small white or gray flakes.
Symptoms of Scalp Eczema and Dandruff
Symptoms of scalp eczema include:
- Intense and persistent itching.
- Oily or waxy skin that may be yellow in color.
- Itching that can cause scratching and cracking.
- Red or pink scaly patches.
- May develop into blisters or peeling.
Symptoms of dandruff include:
- Thin, dry, white or gray flakes.
- Mild or moderate itching of the scalp.
- Thick, yellow flakes that stick to the scalp.
What are the causes of scalp eczema
The causes of scalp eczema vary and are caused by:
- Malassezia fungi, a fungus that lives on the scalp and feeds on oils.
- Genetics plays a role in increasing the risk of developing scalp eczema.
- It occurs as a result of allergic reactions or irritation from the ingredients of some hair care products, such as hair dyes.
- Scalp eczema can occur as a result of an abnormal immune system reaction to a substance that comes into contact with the skin.
- Exposure to psychological stress can increase the risk of developing scalp eczema.
What causes dandruff
Dandruff occurs because the scalp is too oily, leading to a buildup of flakes. Seborrheic dermatitis can cause flaking, forming red patches with yellow flakes.
An overgrowth of Malassezia fungi can also accelerate skin cell turnover and cause dandruff. Dry scalp, especially in the winter, can cause dandruff and sensitivity to hair care products and chemicals.
Psychological conditions also significantly affect dandruff and can cause hair loss and weakness, as can stress and fatigue. Vitamin B and zinc deficiencies can increase the risk of dandruff.
Treatment of scalp eczema
Treatment of scalp eczema focuses on alleviating and preventing symptoms using medicated shampoos containing ingredients such as:
- Salicylic acid.
- Coal tar.
- Antifungal.
Natural treatments and oils can also be used to get rid of scalp eczema:
- Olive oil: Warm a small amount of olive oil and apply it to the scalp.
- Aloe vera gel soothes itching and reduces inflammation.
- Massage the scalp with tea tree oil.
The best shampoo for treating dandruff
The best shampoo for dandruff depends on the cause of the dandruff. Itching and dandruff can often be controlled quickly and effectively by using an anti-dandruff shampoo prescribed by your doctor based on the condition of the scalp. Hair shampoo types vary depending on the active ingredient:
- Shampoo containing tar helps slow the death of skin cells on the scalp.
- Shampoo containing salicylic acid helps eliminate white spots on the scalp.
- Zinc pyrithione shampoo: It features antibacterial and antifungal ingredients that help eliminate dandruff.
- Selenium sulfide shampoo contains substances that help eliminate fungi.
Treatments to Relieve Scalp Eczema
Lifestyle changes and personal care can have an impact on treating scalp eczema by:
- Avoid rubbing your hair with a towel or using a hot hair dryer.
- Wash your hair regularly using a gentle, medicated shampoo free of perfumes and irritating chemicals.
- Avoid scalp-irritating products, such as styling products and dyes.
- Avoid showering with hot water; instead, showering with lukewarm water helps maintain scalp moisture.
Is scalp eczema contagious
No, scalp eczema is not considered contagious. It is a chronic skin condition that is not transmitted from one person to another through touch or direct contact. This is because it is a skin reaction caused by genetics, allergies, or other factors, and is not caused by a bacterial infection.
Dandruff's Harmful Effects on Hair
Dandruff itself is not directly harmful to the hair, but it can cause indirect damage, such as hair loss from the roots and damage to hair follicles, along with severe and annoying itching.
Dandruff creates a favorable environment for fungal growth and infections in the scalp and can be a sign of certain diseases, such as psoriasis or ringworm. These conditions require specific medical treatment to avoid complications.
What is the solution for dandruff in children
To treat dandruff in children, it is important to wash your child's hair with an anti-dandruff shampoo that is gentle on the scalp. It is also important to massage the scalp thoroughly before washing and use moisturizing oils such as olive oil.
In severe and persistent cases, your doctor may prescribe a medicated shampoo specifically for children that contains ingredients such as zinc or salicylic acid. These ingredients are gentle on the scalp and treat dandruff and oily hair problems in children.
Summary of the difference between scalp eczema and dandruff
Scalp eczema is an inflammatory skin condition that causes scaly, irritated patches on the scalp, accompanied by intense itching. The intense itching can lead to thickening of the skin and ulceration.
While dandruff is a general flaking of the scalp and is the result of excess oils in the scalp or dry skin, dandruff is characterized by dry or oily flakes that cause hair loss and weaken its follicles.