Dandruff and alopecia are two conditions that can affect your scalp. While both deal with your scalp, the two conditions are very different. Dandruff causes itchy and flaky skin, but is not serious and can be treated easily. Alopecia is the loss of hair from your head, and is more difficult to treat.
Dandruff
Dandruff is a scalp condition characterized by itchy and flaky skin. These flakes are white, oily pieces of dead skin from your scalp. They will usually fall onto your neck and shoulders. Dandruff is rarely a serious condition and is not contagious.
Alopecia
Alopecia, simply put, is the loss of hair from your scalp. It can refer to losing just a small number of hair follicles or excessive amounts of hair. Alopecia can affect both men and women. It usually starts with just a few hairs and then progresses.
Causes
Although they both affect your scalp, dandruff and alopecia have completely different causes. Dandruff can be caused by a variety of factors including dry or oily skin, eczema, sensitivity to hair products, not shampooing enough or psoriasis, a skin disorder that causes the accumulation of dead skin cells. The cause of alopecia varies depending on the type of hair loss. Most often, it is the result of heredity or skin conditions.
Treatments
Most often, dandruff can be treated with daily shampooing. This will help to reduce oil on the skin and the accumulation of dead skin cells. If this fails to work, your doctor can prescribe an over-the-counter shampoo that contains medication. Treating alopecia can be more difficult. You can try medications, such as Rogaine and Propecia, to re-grow hair. These are not guaranteed to work, however. More extreme forms of treatment include surgical options such as hair transplants and scalp reductions. You can also use wigs and hairpieces to cover your balding.
Prevention
Dandruff can usually be treated with a proper shampoo routine. Other preventive measures include managing stress, limiting use of styling products and eating a healthy diet. Alopecia cannot usually be prevented, as it is usually genetic or caused by a skin disorder. However, certain steps can help to minimize hair loss. These include following a healthy diet, avoid excessively rubbing and pulling hair, and avoid hairstyles such as tight ponytails, braids and buns.
