Is this dandruff or something else?

[inashoebox]

I have had an ongoing case of 'dandruff' for the past 11 years. The first time I noticed it I peeled a large chunk of white dried skin from my scalp. The dried skin builds up so bad sometimes that it clumps my hair together. I have tried perscription strength shampoos and treatments and they all help for a little while but then it comes back. Lately I have been getting small red sores on my head and can see a slightly pink tint to my scalp, obviously irritated. I still get the dried skin that peels off. Am I forever going to have to keep using a dandruff shampoo or could this be something else?

[Rowena Santos, MD]

Hi,

Are there other symptoms present? This could be due to seborrheic dermatitis, which is a common, inflammatory skin condition that causes flaky, white to yellowish scales to form on oily areas such as the scalp or inside the ear. It is associated with stress, fatigue, weather extremes, oily skin, infrequent shampoos or skin cleaning, skin disorders or obesity. This condition is chronic and can be controlled with treatment. The diagnosis is based on the appearance and location of the skin lesions. Over-the-counter dandruff or medicated shampoos my help with the flaking . In severe cases, shampoos or lotions containing selenium, ketoconazole, or corticosteroids may be prescribed by your doctor. Have this evaluated for proper management.

Take care and keep us posted.