Early-stage scalp psoriasis can resemble oily dandruff, making it easy to misdiagnose. Both conditions cause irritation and flaking, but their causes and treatments are entirely different.
Feature | Oily Dandruff | Scalp Psoriasis |
---|---|---|
Cause | Overgrowth of yeast (Malassezia) | Autoimmune disorder |
Trigger Factors | Excess scalp oil, poor hygiene | Genetics, immune dysfunction, stress, infections, cold weather, certain medications |
Symptoms | Greasy, yellowish flakes, itchy scalp, redness, worsens with excess oil | Thick, silvery-white or red patches, intense itching or burning, flakes that are harder to remove, extends beyond the hairline |
Treatment | 。Herbal-based balancing shampoo 。Daily washing to control oil 。Blow-drying to prevent fungal growth 。Avoiding heavy hair products | 。Medicated shampoos (coal tar, salicylic acid) 。Herbal treatments for long-term care 。Light therapy (UVB treatment) 。Prescription medications for severe cases |
Unlike oily dandruff, scalp psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, causing them to multiply too quickly. This leads to thick, scaly patches that can extend beyond the hairline.
Factors for Scalp Psoriasis
Oily dandruff and psoriasis may look similar, but they have different causes and treatments. Recognizing the symptoms early and choosing the right care can help keep your scalp healthy and flake-free.
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