Dandruff and Itchy Scalp Conditions Explained Simply: Psoriasis, Eczema, and Dermatitis

Read on to find out what causes these scalp conditions and the best ways to treat each one, because not all scalp treatments and anti-dandruff shampoos are created equal!

Seborrheic dermatitis and eczema

Dermatitis is a word meaning “inflamed skin” and is a common cause of red, scaly, itchy patches on the scalp. It looks like dandruff, but the scales created by eczema and seborrheic dermatitis are larger, and the scalp is often inflamed. It can also affect the face, eyebrows, beard, and central chest area.

Symptoms

Oily or dry scalp and flaking
Yellow-red scaling in any of these areas:
the hairline
Eyebrows
Wrinkles between the nose and lips.
bridge of the nose
Inside or behind the ears
mid chest

Causes

This type of skin irritation often occurs in areas that have many large oil glands. The inflammation occurs as a reaction to a ‘yeast fungus’ on the scalp and to hair products that break down the oil secreted by the sebaceous glands.

What factors make seborrheic dermatitis worse?

HIV and neurological conditions like Parkinson’s disease greatly increase the symptoms of flaking, dry scalp and itchy scalp.
Physical or emotional stress are known triggers.
Genetic factors: Close relatives also suffer from this condition.
This condition tends to be more severe during the winter.

psoriasis

This is another common itchy scalp condition, which can also affect the knees and elbows.

Symptoms

Small, separate patches of red, inflamed skin with very thick scaling.
When only the scalp is affected, it can be mistaken for a severe case of dandruff.

Causes

Genetics: Psoriasis often affects several members of the same family.
Emotional or physical stress are known triggers.

RECOMMENDED TREATMENTS

Itchy scalp conditions can be easily treated with a medicated dandruff shampoo that contains the right balance of chemical ingredients, such as:

Tar
selenium sulfide
Zinc pyrithione or zinc omadine: may be toxic
Piroctone olamine: less toxic than zinc pyrithione
antifungal agents

Always ask your doctor for a correct diagnosis and treatment.

RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS

LA BIOSTHETIQUE is a specialist provider of natural treatments for the skin, hair and scalp. They’ve been at the top of the specialized hair and scalp care business for 50 years, so it’s obvious that people really like their products!

As an experienced hairdresser and stylist, I have been using LA BIOSTHETIQUE in my salon for many years. I often have clients with dermatitis and psoriasis and I know how distressing these conditions can be.

LA BIOSTHETIQUE produces a wide range of specialist hair care products, from antimicrobial anti-dandruff shampoos to the particularly gentle LA BIOSTHETIQUE hydrolipidic balm for dry and sensitive scalps, providing a natural and soothing companion to any psoriasis treatment.

My clients trust me to provide the best hair care for their scalp problem and I trust LA BIOSTHETIQUE to bring a touch of natural luxury to every hair treatment routine!