Difference Between Scalp Psoriasis & Dandruff

Psoriasis is a skin condition in which 10 times rapid multiplication of skin cells occurs producing red, inflamed, bumpy, and itchy patches on the skin. This mostly occurs due to an overactive immune system. Itching in the patches leading to scaling of while silvery scales which is one of the characteristics of psoriasis.

Scalp Psoriasis and Dandruff:

Both the scalp conditions produce itching and flakes of skin, but there are some differences. Dandruff is a common scalp condition which causes shedding of dry flakes of skin. These flakes can fall on the shoulders and be embarrassing for the people. However, dandruff is neither contagious nor harmful. Scalp Psoriasis affects the scalp producing itchy, inflamed, reddish, and bumpy patches on the scalp. It can be so itchy and distressing that it may sometimes cause the skin to crack and bleed.

Some other scalp conditions that can produce itching and skin flakes are listed here.

Seborrheic Dermatitis – due to overgrowth of yeast on the scalp
Tinea capitis or ‘scalp ringworm”
Eczema
Allergic contact dermatitis of the scalp

Causes of Dandruff And Scalp Psoriasis:

Dandruff: The exact cause of Dandruff is not yet clearly understood by scientists.
Scalp Psoriasis: It has an autoimmune factor responsible for it. Stress, winter season, and an intake of certain foods, such as non-veg, wheat, milk, and milk products, are known to trigger scalp psoriasis.

We treat patients from USA, UK, Canada, Australia, UAE & 180 more countries. Get an expert opinion on your ailment, click here to ask Dr. Shah’s team directly.

Treatment For Dandruff And Scalp Psoriasis:

Treatment For Dandruff:

You can find many anti-dandruff shampoos present in the market. You can either go for it or you can also try out homeopathic remedies to reduce Dandruff.

Anti-Dandruff Shampoos: The anti-dandruff shampoos available in the market should include either one of these constituents (Ketoconazole, Selenium Sulfide, Zinc pyrithione, Coal tar, or Salicylic acid)

However, there are side-effects of the above shampoo if used for a long time. So, it is advisable to go for natural ways to reduce dandruff.

Natural Ways to Reduce Dandruff:

Tea-Tree Oil: It acts as an Antifungal, Antibiotic, and antiseptic to treat dandruff. However, the proper procedure of its application should be followed to avoid any harm. It can be allergic to some people too. You can also go for natural remedies, such as Vinegar, Baking Soda, Aloe Vera, Garlic, neem, and other natural ways to reduce dandruff, provided you follow the proper method of using these things.

Also Read: – How Important is Diet in Psoriasis Treatment?

Treatment For Scalp Psoriasis:

Scalp Psoriasis being an autoimmune disease requires a treatment which addresses the root cause of the disease and treats it. Psoriasis affecting the scalp responds greatly to homeopathy. The redness, scaling, and itching of the scalp reduce significantly. Also, homeopathy regulates its recurrence effectively. Homeopathy treats psoriasis by correcting the internal immune imbalance. Scalp psoriasis, however, responds slower as compared to skin psoriasis.

So, from the above information, it would now become a little easier for all of you to differentiate between Dandruff and Scalp Psoriasis. This will further help you all to take the accurate treatment and other measures required to treat the respective scalp condition.

Written by Dr. Pooja G, Associate doctor to Dr. Rajesh Shah