Flaking of the scalp can be caused by conditions such as psoriasis or dermatitis, most commonly seborrheic dermatitis. Dandruff, often considered a mild form of seborrheic dermatitis, is not just a cosmetic issue but may reflect an underlying skin imbalance.
Although a dry scalp can cause discomfort, itching and some flaking, dandruff is usually linked to excess oil and sensitivity to yeast on the skin rather than dryness. Identifying the cause of your scalp flaking is essential for choosing the right treatment and maintaining a healthy scalp and hair.
In this blog, you will find out more about how to recognise a flaky scalp, about its symptoms, what exactly causes it and what scalp treatment measures you can take.
How do you recognize a peeling scalp?
Flakes on the scalp occur as small, white or yellowish skin particles that detach from the scalp. They can also be accompanied by symptoms such as itchiness, redness and tension. Depending on the cause, they may also occur in combination with an oily or dry scalp. However, it is important to differentiate between the causes to ensure the right treatment is chosen.
Where do the white flakes on your scalp come from?
Flakes on the scalp occur as small, white or yellowish skin particles that detach from the scalp. They can also be accompanied by symptoms such as itchiness, redness and tension. Depending on the cause, they may also occur in combination with an oily or dry scalp. However, it is important to differentiate between the causes to ensure the right treatment is chosen.
Most of the time the flakes originate from dead skin cells, which are shed at a faster than normal rate. The flakes tend to be white or light yellow and easy to rub off your head.
Dermatitis refers to inflammation of the skin and is not always dry. There are two types of dermatitis that lead to the flakes on your scalp. These types are seborrheic dermatitis and contact dermatitis.
Seborrheic dermatitis causes scaly patches and red skin on the scalp and other areas, while contact dermatitis is a red and itchy rash that is caused by contact with an allergen.
The causes of contact dermatitis depend on your condition. If you have an allergy and you touch something which irritates it, it could cause your scalp to flake. Products that can trigger contact dermatitis are: cosmetics, detergents, fragrances, latex, nickel, certain plants, and topical medications.
The causes of seborrheic dermatitis, on the other hand, include a yeast (Malassezia), increased levels of the hormone androgen, and excess oil production. Furthermore, it can be triggered by an inflammatory reaction. Also, it is highly likely that stress, genetics, a dry climate, certain health conditions and medical treatments could lead to an increased risk of developing this skin condition.
(Results of a woman, experiencing seborrheic eczema and reduced hair growth improvements after using Neofollics Scalp Therapy Product Line)
Flakes on the scalp can be caused by dandruff or psoriasis. Dermatitis can appear on various parts of the body, while dandruff is limited to the scalp. Dandruff is usually treatable with shampoos that help reduce flaking, oiliness, and irritation.
What are symptoms of an unhealthy scalp?
- An unhealthy scalp often shows through various symptoms, including:
- Itching
- Tightness or dryness
- Redness or inflammation
- Excessive dandruff
- Hair loss or thinning hair
If those symptoms remain untreated, the condition of the scalp can progressively become worse and lead to long-term issues.
Benefits of a healthy scalp
The health of your hair and scalp is in your hands. The human scalp contains around 100,000 hair follicles. Like a seed sprouting a tree, each follicle produces a single hair that grows. Sebaceous glands attached to the follicles produce sebum, which helps moisturize the scalp and protect the skin from infection.
The scalp has its own microbiome, a community of microorganisms that help maintain skin health. If the balance of the scalp microbiome is disrupted, this can contribute to conditions such as dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis. It is important to have a healthy scalp, as poor scalp health can lead to hair loss.
A healthy scalp supports healthy hair growth and helps reduce conditions such as itching and irritation.
What are the causes of the white flakes?
Dry scalp
In many cases, dandruff is triggered by an excessive reproduction of the yeast fungus Malassezia. Consequently, this leads to an increased sebum production and faster skin regeneration, which then results in visible dandruff.
Dandruff
In many cases, dandruff is triggered by an excessive reproduction of the yeast fungus Malassezia. Consequently, this leads to an increased sebum production and faster skin regeneration, which then results in visible dandruff.
Fungi
In addition to Malassezia, there are also other types of fungi or bacteria that can infect the scalp and lead to inflammation and flaking. Some cases may also require medical treatment.
What are the consequences if you do not treat the causes?
If left untreated, dandruff can lead to continuous itching and inflammation, and in some cases, temporary hair loss due to scratching or irritation. Especially in the case of seborrhoeic dermatitis or fungal infections, the condition of the scalp can become worse if it is not properly taken care of. In severe cases, especially when caused by these conditions, the skin irritation can even spread to other areas.
How to treat the flakes on your scalp?
Moisturize the scalp sufficiently
Hydrating products such as special scalp masks or oils can strengthen the skin barrier. Mild ingredients such as aloe vera, panthenol and urea also soothe and moisturise the scalp.
Neofollics Scalp Therapy
Neofollics has an innovative way to treat flakes on the scalp through an exfoliating shampoo that can be used by anyone who needs a healthy scalp. For the scalp health, we have a Scalp Therapy product line. It consists of:
- Neofollics Scalp Therapy Exfoliating Shampoo
- Neofollics Scalp Therapy Peeling Serum
- Neofollics Scalp Therapy Nourishing Mask
This treatment helps you, if you suffer from dandruff, dermatitis or want healthy hair.
Neofollics has an innovative way to treat flakes on the scalp through an exfoliating shampoo that can be used by anyone who needs a healthy scalp. The treatment improves the health of your hair as following:
- The products exfoliate the scalp and remove sebum build up.
- Dandruff and flaking will reduce, because of anti-fungal ingredients Piroctone Olamine and Climbazole.
- Prevent itching and irritation.
- Redness and inflammation decreases.
- Psoriasis and dermatitis effects reduce due to Licorice extract
(Results of a woman 29, experiencing seborrheic dermatitis, itching and flaking.
After using the Neofollics Scalp Therapy Line treatment)
Neofollics Scalp Therapy Exfoliating Shampoo highlighted
The Neofollics Scalp Therapy Exfoliating Shampoo has been specially developed to reduce dandruff and scalp problems. It contains:
- Piroctone Olamine and Climbazole: antifungal agents that inhibit the growth of Malassezia.
- Liquorice extract: reduces inflammation and soothes the scalp.
- Exfoliating ingredients: remove dead skin cells and regulate sebum production.
How often should the scalp be washed with shampoo?
How often you should wash your hair depends on your individual condition. While some people need to wash their hair every day, for others it is enough to wash it two or three times a week. An important factor is to use mild shampoos without aggressive sulphates.
Other ways to prevent flakes on the scalp
- Using a scalp roller to promote your blood circulation.
- Use at home products for better scalp in combination with a shampoo for significant reduction of hair loss and stimulation of hair growth.
- Using a moisturizing conditioner in combination with a healthy shampoo.
When should you consult a dermatologist?
If there is no improvement despite intensive care or the symptoms become worse, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist. In cases of severe itching, open wounds or hair loss a professional diagnosis may be necessary.
Conclusion
Flakes on the scalp can have various causes, from dry skin to fungal infections and seborrhoeic dermatitis. Targeted care with moisturising and effective ingredients can help to relieve such conditions. Neofollics Scalp Therapy Exfoliating Shampoo offers an effective solution for a healthy scalp and beautiful, strong hair.
Sources
Risher, B. (2020, 16 december). 7 Healthy Scalp Tips for Strong, Shiny Hair. Healthline. Geraadpleegd op 10 februari 2022, van https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/healthy-scalp#healthy-scalp-benefits