Scalp Flaking: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments
Scalp flaking can be caused by a variety of factors. Dry, flaky scalp is also often associated with various dermatological conditions. It's crucial to consult a dermatologist or trichologist for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Understanding the Causes of Scalp Flaking
Scalp flaking has various causes; understanding the symptoms of each condition is vital:
Psoriasis
Initial symptoms include reddish lesions, papules, and silvery-white, scaly patches. Importantly, the skin under the scales appears shiny, a characteristic known as the "stearic candle" sign. Commonly affected areas include the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. Although rare, psoriasis can sometimes affect the entire body. There are four main types of psoriasis.
Atopic Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis - AD)
Characterised by excessive dryness and flaking of the scalp, often accompanied by intense itching. Red, inflamed patches may also appear, potentially leading to abrasions and sores from scratching. While the scalp can be affected, symptoms commonly appear on the face, inside the elbows and knees, and around the ears. In severe cases, the rash can spread across the entire body.
Seborrheic Dermatitis (SD)
Symptoms include flaky, oily, reddish patches. These can appear on the scalp, ears, eyebrows, chest, upper back, and nasolabial folds (the creases between your nose and mouth).
Contact Allergy
Key symptoms include dryness and intense, persistent itching. Contact allergy typically manifests where the skin comes into contact with the allergen. It's characterised by the appearance of papules, vesicles (small blisters) that may merge into larger areas, redness, and scaling. Changes usually develop within 24-48 hours of contact with the allergen.
Irritated Scalp
An irritated scalp becomes red, sensitive, and may start to flake, causing dandruff and burning sensations. This occurs due to a significant deterioration in the scalp's condition.
Recommendations for Dealing with a Flaky Scalp
What to Avoid
Frequent blow-drying with hot air, as well as using curling irons, straighteners, and other heat styling tools, damage the scalp. High temperatures weaken and flake the skin and negatively impact the hair shaft.
Inappropriate hair care, styling, and colouring products frequently cause scalp flaking. Avoid harsh products that dry and irritate the scalp.
What's Essential
Pay attention to your diet. Essential nutrients include zinc, selenium, B vitamins, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins A and E, and magnesium. A diet lacking these nutrients can worsen skin problems, including scaling.
Proper scalp care and regular check-ups with a dermatologist are crucial for managing scalp flaking.
Treating Scalp Flaking in Children
Many young children experience cradle cap – a mild form of seborrheic dermatitis. Yellow, oily, scaly patches appear on the scalp. This is due to excessive sebum production, which dries on the skin, mixing with flaking skin. Seborrheic dermatitis can, however, appear on other parts of the body. Sometimes, scalp and body flaking in children is linked to unsuitable cosmetics and a poor diet. In all cases, a visit to a pediatrician is necessary for diagnosis and treatment. In addition to prescribed medication, gentle, child-specific products are recommended.
Remember that scalp problems can be symptoms of more serious dermatological conditions, necessitating specialist consultation. Alongside appropriate treatment, focus on high-quality dermocosmetics designed for your specific dermatosis.
Verdelove Product Recommendations
For Psoriasis: Psorisel Dermocosmetics
These products utilise effective, time-tested natural active ingredients to safely alleviate characteristic psoriasis symptoms.
- Psorisel Shampoo: Contains birch tar and willowherb extract, gently cleansing the scalp, soothing inflammation, reducing itching and excessive scaling.
- Psorisel Scalp Lotion: Rich in salicylic acid, hemp oil, and panthenol, it moisturises dry scalp, soothes irritation, itching and burning. It quickly regenerates and smoothes the affected skin.
- Psorisel Scalp Emulsion: With ichthyol, urea, and plant squalane, it acts antibacterially, soothes inflammation, helps rebuild the epidermis, and alleviates burning, tightness, and itching.
For Seborrheic Dermatitis: Seborh Dermocosmetics
Professional products based on highly effective natural substances.
- Seborh Anti-SD Shampoo: The active formula contains piroctone olamine, selenium sulfide, and royal jelly, effectively killing fungi and bacteria, thoroughly cleansing the scalp and hair, and removing excess sebum. It provides the skin with essential active substances with regenerating, moisturising, and nourishing properties.
- Seborh Anti-SD Scalp Lotion: Contains glycolic acid, gluconolactone, and rosemary extract, gently exfoliates the epidermis, reduces accumulated scales and dandruff, restores the skin's hydrolipid balance, and increases hydration. It also unclogs pores and hair follicles.
- Seborh Anti-SD Scalp Emulsion: Rich in lactic acid, urea, and sulfur, it intensely and deeply moisturises, softens the stratum corneum, reduces hair oiliness, and relieves itchy scalp.
For Atopic Dermatitis: Atopicin Dermocosmetics
Emollient products designed to support those with AD. A comprehensive skincare set for the entire body includes:
- Shampoo
- Body wash
- Moisturising body balm
- Day cream
- Night cream
- Eye and eyelid cream
- Dry skin ointment
- Facial cleansing oil
The set nourishes, moisturises, and regenerates the skin, relieving itching.
Summary
Scalp flaking has many causes, so carefully consider what might be affecting you. Remember that these causes can overlap! Consulting a specialist is highly recommended.
This information is for general knowledge and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for any health concerns.
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