What is the difference between Dry Scalp and Dandruff?

This one can get complicated but I will try to break down the science and give you some good treatments.

Dandruff and Dry Scalp are commonly confused because they both produce white flakes and can cause itching.  However Dandruff is the result from a naturally occurring fungus (malassezia). Stress, age, hormones, and poor hygiene can make the fungus worse.  Dandruff produces large clumps of flakes and they are generally oily.  Dry Scalp on the other hand produces small clumps of flakes that are often very hard to see in comparison to Dandruff.  Dry scalp can be caused by several factors such as:  Contact Dermatitis- allergic reaction, Sunburn, or Extreme Age.  The symptoms can be made worse by cold or dry climate.  So neither of these are contagious to anyone else and can be easily treated.  Dandruff comes in two forms and I will define them and then give the Course of treatment.

1) Classic Dandruff (Pityriasis capitis simplex)- is scalp irritation, large flakes, and and itchy scalp.  The scales of the scalp can attach themselves in masses and scatter to the hair and shoulders.  Regular antidandruf shampoos are the best course of treatment.

2) Pityriasis steatoides - is the more severe case of dandruff and is usually has more greasy or waxy scales that mix with sebum that will stick to the scalp in crusts. There might also be redness and inflammation and in this case you need to see a physician.

So for the treatment of basic dandruff most antidandruff shampoos contain some kind of antifungal agent (pyrithione zinc, selenium sulfide, or ketoconazole) that control dandruff by supressing the growth of the fungus.  If it contains pyrithione zinc you can get treatment for all hair types and even for color treated hair!  Frequent use of these products is essential to controlling the problem as is good hygiene and proper sanitation.

As for Dry Scalp what I have found to work the best is Tea Tree Products.  Tea Tree is a natural anti-inflammatory and can help to calm the scalp as well as reduce the amount of lose skin on the scalp.  Keep in mind that you REALLY want to use professional products so you know you are getting what you pay for.  A lot of over the counter shampoos and conditioners as I call it are watered down and have harsh sulfates.  Your money should go to good quality products if you want it to work.  Paul Mitchell has a line of Tea Tree Products that you can buy at most salons or a Paul Mitchell School near you!  If you buy some of these products Paul Mitchell will plant a tree!! As always I hope this helps to give your hair a little more therapy!