How to Identify and Treat Dandruff

While both dandruff and dry skin can cause flakes on the scalp, dandruff is primarily caused by an excess of oil and a fungal overgrowth, resulting in larger, oily flakes, whereas dry skin is due to a lack of moisture, leading to smaller, dry flakes; essentially, dandruff is an oily scalp condition while dry skin is a lack of moisture on the scalp and potentially other areas of the body as well. 

Scalp appearance

Dandruff flakes are typically larger, visible, and can appear yellowish or oily, while dry skin flakes are smaller and more powdery white

Scalp feeling:

A dandruff-affected scalp might feel greasy, while a dry scalp feels tight and dry. 

Cause:

Dandruff is often linked to a yeast overgrowth called Malassezia, while dry scalp is caused by environmental factors like cold weather, harsh shampoos, or low humidity. 

Treatment:

To treat dandruff, the most effective method is to use a medicated anti-dandruff shampoo containing active ingredients like zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, ketoconazole, or salicylic acid, which can be purchased over-the-counter at most pharmacies. You may need to wash the scalp multiple times per week to control the dandruff. Always remember to follow the directions on the bottle. Many of these shampoos require you to leave the shampoo on the scalp for a few minutes.