Dandruff vs scalp psoriasis: Understanding the difference

Dandruff vs scalp psoriasis (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by alexander)
Dandruff vs scalp psoriasis (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by alexander)

When a person notices flakey shavings on their head, confusion between dandruff vs scalp psoriasis is frequently there. It's crucial to understand the discrepancy between dandruff and psoriasis, as it guides your reaction.

While one condition might seem trivial, another could call for medical intervention. Familiarising yourself with the contrasts between dandruff and scalp psoriasis and their respective treatments can save you from unnecessary tension.

Although they share certain symptoms like a dry, inflamed, itchy scalp, significant differences exist between the conditions. Granted, both might lead to those annoying white flakes, yet remedies and causes vary for dandruff and scalp psoriasis.

The villain is quite prevalent, impacting nearly half the global populace. However, a myriad of scalp problems could be plaguing you.


Dandruff vs scalp psoriasis

Dandruff is a prevalent skin condition. You may detect flakes falling from your head and clinging to your hair or clothing. Your scalp may also itch. Fortunately, dandruff is not considered a serious skin problem and rarely necessitates the care of a doctor.

Dandruff vs scalp psoriasis (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by bennie lukas)
Dandruff vs scalp psoriasis (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by bennie lukas)

When compared to scalp psoriasis and dandruff (seborrhoeic dermatitis), the main distinction is that the latter may be treated at home. The white flakes on the hair and scalp are nothing more than skin cells that have died. While its appearance may raise concern, dandruff is not a sign of major health issues and is not transmittable to others.

There are a few ways to treat dandruff, including:

1) Apple cider vinegar

To treat dandruff at home, the materials must be blended in a specific manner. Once you've properly combined all of the components, you can apply them. ACV is thought to be among the most effective natural treatments for severe dandruff.

However, there's a certain procedure to produce the paste. Here are some basic techniques to prepare apple cider vinegar for a flaky scalp treatment.

Dandruff vs scalp psoriasis (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by element)
Dandruff vs scalp psoriasis (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by element)

2) Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil contains anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory qualities that can help fight the fungus responsible for dandruff. It is also useful for calming sensitive and inflamed skin, making it an effective approach to eliminating dandruff at home.

Dandruff vs scalp psoriasis (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by elina)
Dandruff vs scalp psoriasis (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by elina)

Scalp psoriasis

Scalp psoriasis is a form of autoimmune disease in which white blood cells within the body cause a surplus of skin cells across the scalp. Stress, severe temperatures, and viral diseases are all risk factors for psoriasis.

The plaques might be dry and irritating. Prescription and over-the-counter treatments are available to treat scalp psoriasis symptoms.

Dandruff vs scalp psoriasis (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by garon)
Dandruff vs scalp psoriasis (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by garon)

Scalp psoriasis causes skin cells to proliferate excessively quickly, resulting in thick, discoloured spots throughout the skin on the top of the head and surrounding areas. Scalp psoriasis causes red, scaly spots on the scalp. These spots can be confused for dandruff, but there's a substantial distinction between the two.

Treatment options for scalp psoriasis include:

1) Aloe vera

Aloe vera is a plant with remarkable skin-healing abilities. You can apply the raw extraction from this plant straight to your scalp and surrounding skin, or you can use a lotion with aloe vera as an ingredient.

This reduces skin irritation, scalp redness, and inflammation while also controlling flaking on the scalp. You must moisturise the affected region regularly, applying aloe vera three times each day, and you will see results in a month.

Dandruff vs scalp psoriasis (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by luis)
Dandruff vs scalp psoriasis (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by luis)

2) Turmeric

Turmeric provides numerous health advantages, including improved hair and skin health. This is because turmeric includes the antioxidant curcumin, which is thought to lower free radicals and speed up wound healing. Turmeric is effective at treating scalp psoriasis.

Dandruff vs scalp psoriasis (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by moose)
Dandruff vs scalp psoriasis (image sourced via Pexels / Photo by moose)

Finally, while battling dandruff vs scalp psoriasis is a basic issue, it can lead to a great deal of confusion. However, it is best to consult a specialist because many people suffer from psoriasis but believe they have a terrible dandruff problem when they actually have a severe autoimmune illness.

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