Is It Dandruff or Scalp Psoriasis?
Those little white specks on your shoulders might seem like a straightforward case of dandruff. We’ve seen the ads and used the dandruff shampoo that promised it would be gone in one wash. Did it help? Possibly not how we thought it would.
How do we know it’s dandruff for sure? If those flaky patches are appearing on your ears, forehead or hairline, it might be time to rethink what you’re currently dealing with here as scalp psoriasis can look similar. Both can undeniably be itchy. Therefore knowing the difference between dandruff and scalp psoriasis can help you better understand what’s actually going on with your scalp.
A gentle option worth considering as part of your psoriasis care routine is H-Psoriasis Formula, a homeopathic product formulated to support the skin during flare-ups.
In this blog:
- What Is Dandruff?
- What Is Scalp Psoriasis?
- Dandruff vs. Scalp Psoriasis: What’s the Real Difference?
- How to Manage Scalp Psoriasis
- A Gentle Addition To Your Scalp Routine
- When to See a Doctor About Scalp Psoriasis
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Sources
What Is Dandruff?
To put it quite simply, dandruff is dead skin cells on our scalp. Our bodies naturally produce an oil called sebum (which helps keep our skin moisturized). But when a type of yeast that naturally lives on our scalp feeds on this oil, it can irritate the skin and cause it to shed faster than usual. Those are the little flakes we know as dandruff.
What Is Scalp Psoriasis?
Usually our bodies develop new skin cells over a few weeks. Not on psoriasis’s watch. With scalp psoriasis this can happen within a matter of days. With this process being sped up, the old skin cells don’t have enough time to shed naturally. Instead, they build up into itchy, scaly and red patches that we know as psoriasis.
Dandruff vs. Scalp Psoriasis: What’s the Real Difference?
So what’s really going on with our heads at this point? Well, there are a few key differences to look at when it comes to dandruff and psoriasis:
The Similarities:
- They both flake
- Strong urge to scratch your head
- They both tend to have cycles where they can flare up
- Stress is a known trigger for both
How Do We Tell Them Apart?
| Dandruff | Scalp Psoriasis | |
|---|---|---|
| Flake appearance | Small, white or yellow flakes | Thicker, silvery-white scales |
| Skin underneath | Normal or slightly oily | Red, inflamed patches |
| Itch level | Mild to moderate | Can become intense and possibly burn |
| Patch borders | Flakes are scattered and not defined | Raised with clearly defined patches |
| Common triggers | Yeast, oily skin, dry air | Immune response, stress or skin injury |
| Where it spreads | Typically stays on the scalp | Can spread to the forehead, neck, and ears |
| Response to regular shampoo | Often improves with anti-dandruff shampoo | Usually doesn’t improve |
How to Manage Scalp Psoriasis
If you're unsure whether you're dealing with dandruff or scalp psoriasis, it's important to speak with a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis.
- As difficult as it is to avoid, try not to scratch the psoriasis as this will only make it worse
- Wash with shampoo gently. Yes, scrubbing seems like the obvious solution but scrubbing and rubbing harder with shampoo makes it worse
- Avoid using any moisturizers that are alcohol-based as this can cause the hair to break and the scalp can become severely dry
A Gentle Addition To Your Scalp Routine
When it comes to having psoriasis, many people have experienced how some products don’t work gently on the skin. H-Psoriasis Formula is made with gentleness in mind. The formula may be applied directly to the affected area as directed or added to a bath as part of your skincare routine.
H-Psoriasis Formula is a homeopathic medicine intended for the temporary relief of symptoms associated with psoriasis, including itching, redness and irritation. The formula is made up of a blend of pure natural essential oils, cold pressed or expeller pressed oils and homeopathic ingredients offering a gentle addition to your skincare routine.
When to See a Doctor About Scalp Psoriasis
If you experience any of the following it is advised that you speak to a medical professional:
- It has started to spread to your forehead, ears and neck or other body parts
- The itchiness and redness become worse
- The scales have thickened
- You notice that your hair is falling out
- The patches have become painful, severely cracked or start to bleed
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between dandruff and scalp psoriasis?
Dandruff is caused by yeast or changes in environment and the flakes are typically white or yellowish in color. Scalp psoriasis is caused by the immune system and the scales which come from patches of skin, are usually silvery in color.
Why isn't my dandruff shampoo working on scalp psoriasis?
Dandruff shampoo is made to typically care for the yeast itself on the scalp, containing ingredients that are not made to care for scalp psoriasis. Dandruff flakes are not as thick as scalp psoriasis scales.
How do I use H-Psoriasis Formula on my scalp?
Either apply the formula to the area as directed or add a few drops of H-Psoriasis Formula to a bath.
Is H-Psoriasis Formula safe to use everyday?
H-Psoriasis Formula is intended for use as directed on the label, typically up to 3 times a day. Always follow the usage directions provided with the product.
Can I use H-Psoriasis Formula alongside other scalp products?
Yes H-Psoriasis Formula , if you're using prescription scalp treatments, speak with your healthcare provider about how best to incorporate additional products into your routine.
Does H-Psoriasis Formula work for scalp psoriasis?
H-Psoriasis Formula is intended for use on skin affected by psoriasis, including scalp, when used as directed.
Sources
- Cleveland Clinic. Scalp Psoriasis
- WebMD. How Is Scalp Psoriasis Different From Dandruff?
- My Psoriasis Team. Scalp Psoriasis vs. Dandruff: How To Tell Them Apart
Note: H-Psoriasis Formula is a homeopathic medicine. Use only as directed. If you’re unsure whether you have dandruff or scalp psoriasis, if symptoms persist or worsen, or if you notice signs of infection, consult a healthcare professional.