Dry itchy scalp, flaking not dandruff. Help! I need relief

Hi :) This is my first time posting on here. I have been having such a hard time getting rid of my dry skin on my scalp. It is constantly itching and flaking off. My hairdresser said that it is not dandruff or product buildup and shes been offering me different ideas to try. So far nothing has worked! Ive tried dandruff shampoos, apple cider vinegar spray, olive oil soak, even malox! I am not sure if I have a skin condition because this severe itching and flaking is only on my scalp especially around the crown and on the sides in the front. If anyone has any suggestions for any at home or over the counter treatments I would really appreciate it. thank you :)

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

I don’t think that it is not dandruff.A hair dresser is not a doctor.From the symptoms that you have mentioned,I feel that this dry scaly skin is dandruff. Dandruff is associated with a tiny fungus called Pityrosporum ovale, or P. ovale for short. This fungus lives on our bodies and scalp all the time, usually without causing a problem. Unfortunately, for some people, it can get out of control -- leading to dandruff.It can be due to internal or external causes.

Internal causes include hormonal imbalance, poor health, poor hygiene, allergic hypersensitivity, lack of rest, emotional stress, excessive consumption of sugar, fat or starch and heredity predisposition.
External causes include excessive use of hair sprays and gels, improper use of hair-coloring products, cold weather and dry indoor heating, infrequent shampooing of the hair or inadequate rinsing of the scalp and hair.

Eat a healthy diet. You can also take vit B6 and vit A and E which are good for hair and skin. Try medicated shampoos for dandruff. There are a number of over-the-counter shampoos available that can help. The most effective ingredients -- antimicrobials -- to look for are zinc pyridinethione, selenium sulfide, sulfur and ketoconazole (also available by prescription). If your hair is colored, don't use products with selenium sulfide or sulfur.

If the symptoms persist please consult a trichologist for the confirmatory diagnosis and treatment.

Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing and if you have any additional queries.Kind regards.