Dandruff or Dry Scalp? Here's How to Tell the Difference (2025)

Symptoms

The symptoms of dandruff and dry scalp are similar. Both cause:

• Flakes in the hair, which may drop onto the shoulders
• Itching on the scalp
• Pain on the scalp

Despite the similarities, there are subtle differences in the symptoms of each condition.

Dandruff

If you have dandruff, your symptoms might include:

• Flakes that are large and yellow-tinged
• Other inflammation or swelling on the scalp
• A rash on the scalp that appears white or purple on darker skin tones and red on lighter skin tones
• Burning sensation as well as itch

Dry Scalp

In addition to flakes and itching, the symptoms of dry scalp can include:

• Dry skin elsewhere on the body
• A feeling of tightness on the scalp

Causes

Dandruff

Dandruff is caused by having too much yeast on the scalp. The yeast feeds on oil produced on the scalp called sebum. If you have excess oil production, you can have too much yeast, which causes dandruff.

Dry Scalp

A dry scalp occurs when the skin on your head becomes too dry due to lost moisture. This can happen because of harsh hair products and shampoo, and it can also get worse with cold weather.

A dry scalp can also be caused by sunburn, an allergy to hair products, and some medications. It might also indicate an underlying skin condition like eczema or psoriasis.

Treatment

Dandruff

Treatments for dandruff include medicated shampoo. Most people can treat dandruff with over-the-counter (OTC) shampoos. However, if you do not see an improvement after using an OTC shampoo for four to six weeks, ask a healthcare provider such as a primary care provider or dermatologist (a doctor specializing in skin, hair, and nails) about stronger, prescription options.

Dandruff shampoos contain ingredients to target oil and yeast production, including:

• Coal tar
• Ketoconazole
• Selenium sulfide
• Zinc pyrithione
  

Dry Scalp

If your scalp has dry skin, you can treat it using gentle shampoos and hair products. After shampooing, use amoisturizing conditioner, which will help hydrate not only your hair but also your scalp.

Additional steps to boost scalp hydration include:

• Using a humidifier
• Using moisturizing scalp masks
• Using oils like coconut or tea tree oil on your scalp

Prevention

Whether you’re prone to dandruff or dry scalp, finding a hygiene routine that works for you is important. The details about how often to wash your hair and what products to use are very individual, depending on your hair texture and how oily your scalp is.

Generally, it’s best to avoid harsh products and stick to gentle ones. This is especially important during winter and during the changes of season when dandruff and dry scalp can worsen.

When to See a Provider

While dandruff and dry scalp are common, you should see a healthcare provider if you’re concerned about either condition. In particular, seek medical care if you have these symptoms:

• Flakiness that continues after four to six weeks of treatment
• Pain or burning on the scalp
• Rash that spreads elsewhere on the body
• Reddened or swollen areas on the scalp

Summary

Dandruff and dry scalp cause itchiness and white flakes on the scalp. Although the symptoms are similar, the causes are different. A dry scalp is a type of dry skin that can worsen when harsh shampoos or hair products are used. It can generally be treated by switching to gentle products and moisturizing your scalp with masks and oils.

Dandruff is a skin condition caused by an overproduction of yeast on the scalp. It can cause inflammation and redness and must be treated with medicated shampoo. See a healthcare provider to discuss prescription options if over-the-counter shampoo doesn’t treat your dandruff.