There are multiple conditions that can cause flaky, dry, or irritated skin or scalp. When the scalp is inflamed or dehydrated, it can cause visible flecks of skin to shed across the hair and even onto clothing. Most people will see a flaky scalp and assume its dandruff, but it could be a much more serious condition called psoriasis.
Causes of Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a condition that creates inflammation within the body which can cause the immune system to become overactive. This can greatly speed up skin growth, leading to plaques or flakes of skin that may appear almost scale-like. These flakes can appear anywhere on the body, including the scalp, which is why psoriasis may be confused with dandruff.
Scientists are still unsure of the exact cause of psoriasis, but they do know it’s linked to genetics. Psoriasis is not contagious, however, someone who suffers may find their condition gets worse with certain triggers. These may include:
Injury
Illness
Stress
Changes in weather
Allergens
These triggers won’t impact all psoriasis sufferers, and some people may find triggers easier to cope with than others.
Almost 3% of the global population has psoriasis, and at least 8 million Americans suffer from the condition. It can affect anyone regardless of race, gender, or age.
Causes of Dandruff
Dandruff, or pityriasis capitis, is a really common scalp condition, causing dry skin and flakes for over 50 million Americans. Dandruff may be caused by environmental factors, hair products that strip the scalp of its natural oils, or a particular kind of yeast present in the scalp.
Psoriasis vs. Dandruff—Signs to Look Out For
Both conditions present as flaky skin, and may also include redness and inflammation. If you’re concerned that your “dandruff” may actually be a symptom of psoriasis, you should watch out for the following symptoms:
Scale red bumps and lumps that continue to get bigger
Flakes and large scales of silvery-looking skin
Scalp lesions
Itching that increases in severity
Hair loss
Any of these symptoms should prompt you to have a conversation with a specialist.
Treating Psoriasis
Treatment will depend on the severity of your scalp psoriasis, and should be handled in consultation with a medical professional. You may be able to use some over-the-counter treatments, such as shampoo containing a particular type of steroid that boosts the resilience of your scalp.
Removing triggers such as excessive stress may help, and cutting out alcohol and tobacco is also associated with reduced inflammation.
In severe cases, hair loss treatments may be required, ranging from oral medicine to hair transplants.
Flakes on your scalp could just be dandruff, but if it persists, gets worse, or becomes sore and inflamed, you must always speak to an expert. If you need advice about scalp conditions or want to discuss hair loss, contact Genesis II in confidence. To schedule a free consultation, click here.
Photo Credit: antonynjoro Via Pixabay
