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Plus, these hair experts broke down what causes dandruff vs. dry scalp and when to seek professional help.
Keep reading to learn what sets dandruff and dry scalp apart and how to treat both.
Meet the Experts
What Is Dandruff?
Dandruff is a scalp condition that causes dry skin to flake off the scalp.
Often considered a mild form of seborrheic dermatitis, this condition may cause scalp itchiness and redness as well.
According to Dr. Murphy-Rose, dandruff is also a chronic condition that waxes and wanes over time.
Dandruff is because of an elevation of fungus on the surface of the scalp," says Gaunitz.
What Is Dry Scalp?
Dry scalp may improve with less frequent shampooing, says Friese.
Scalp fungus is totally normal, and the immune system typically controls it, adds Gaunitz.
Like other forms of dry skin, this can cause itching, flaking, and irritation, she says.
Flakes from dandruff tend to be much larger and incredibly visiblethink flaky, Maldon sea salt.
Flaky dry scalp tends to be much finer and smaller.
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