Adry scalpcan be uncomfortable, and when it leads to itching and peeling, it can be embarrassing.
There are several causes of dry scalp, including dermatitis, dandruff, and psoriasis.
Symptoms ofcontact dermatitisinclude:
Seborrheic dermatitis, on the other hand, is characterized by greasy, red patches.
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The rash develops yellow or white scales that often flake.
Causes
Contact dermatitis develops when your skin comes into contact with a substance that irritates it.
Often, this is something you are allergic to.
Its not clear what the exact cause ofseborrheic dermatitisis.
It is not resulting from personal hygiene or an allergy.
Treatment
The primary way totreat contact dermatitisis to avoid the offending irritant.
In addition, topical steroids, oral steroids, or immunosuppressive medications are sometimes necessary.
Totreat seborrheic dermatitis, you may need to use an anti-dandruff shampoo.
Topical steroids and antifungals can also help.
If avoiding irritants and using dandruff shampoo doesnt help, talk to your doctor.
They can help you develop a treatment plan that is safe and effective.
Dandruff
Dandruff and seborrheic dermatitisare similar conditions.
Seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff, combined, affect more than half of the adult population in the United States.
Similarly,dandruff and psoriasisshare common symptoms.
A mild form of seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff shares the same causes.
Most of the time, you canmanage dandruffwith over-the-counter (OTC) shampoos.
However, severe cases may indicate that another skin condition is causing your dandruff.
If OTC products are not helping, you should seek advice from your doctor.
Around 50 million Americans spend $300 million annually on over-the-counter products to treat dandruff.
Of those who experience psoriasis, 80% have it on their scalp.
Fortunately, the hair loss is usually reversible with treatment.
The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown.
However, genetics may play a role.
Certain triggers often bring on psoriasis flares.
Common triggers include:
Management of scalp psoriasis may require a combination of treatments.
Some skin conditions can lead to infection.
If that happens, you will need medical treatment.
Of all types of dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis and contact dermatitis most commonly cause peeling on the scalp.
A Word From Verywell
Peeling that results from a dry, flaky scalp can be irritating.
Sometimes, it can even disrupt your life.
If you have scalp peeling, there could be several causes.
Talking to your doctor to identify the cause will help you develop the best treatment for your condition.
Therefore, it can lead to symptoms that include scalp peeling.
Moisturizing creams with aloe may also help.
You may want to avoid shampoos, since they may cause further irritation.
Instead, use moisturizing creams with aloe to keep the skin hydrated and allow it to heal.
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