@ustrichology: Not all scalp flaking is the same. What many people call “dandruff” can actually be three completely different scalp conditions — each with a very different cause and treatment approach. The three most commonly confused conditions are: Seborrheic Dermatitis Scalp Psoriasis Scalp Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) They may all cause flaking, redness, irritation, and itching, which is why they’re so frequently misidentified. But biologically, they behave very differently. Seborrheic Dermatitis This condition is driven by an inflammatory reaction to Malassezia yeast living on the scalp. It typically produces yellow, greasy flakes and appears in oil-rich areas like the scalp, eyebrows, and sides of the nose. Scalp Psoriasis Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes the skin to produce new cells much faster than normal. This leads to thick, dry, silvery-white plaques sitting on top of red inflamed skin. These plaques often extend beyond the hairline. Scalp Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) Eczema involves skin barrier dysfunction and immune hypersensitivity. The scalp often becomes very dry, intensely itchy, and inflamed, producing fine white flakes rather than greasy scale. Because these conditions look similar on the surface, many people treat the wrong problem — which can actually make the scalp worse. Understanding the biology of the scalp and hair follicle is the first step toward choosing the right treatment strategy. At the United States Trichology Institute (USTI), we focus on teaching the science behind hair loss, scalp disorders, and follicle health so professionals and consumers can better understand what’s happening beneath the surface.

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Saturday 14 March 2026 05:17:44 GMT