When skin beneath the hair becomes dry, it can flake and fall off. This flaky scalp condition is called seborrheic dermatitis. A flaky scalp results in flakes of skin falling off, which is called dandruff. Dandruff is sometimes caused by seborrheic dermatitis, but according to the Georgia Department of Community Health, there are other causes of dandruff. The flaking of skin on the scalp can be associated with an itching feeling. The condition is not contagious, and it is rarely an indication of a more serious condition, but the condition can be a source of embarrassment.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis can be a cause for flaky skin on the scalp. According to the University of Michigan Health System, there is no single cause for seborrheic dermatitis. The condition can be brought about by hormonal changes. It can also occur when certain types of fungus or yeast is present on the skin. Penn State Hershey identifies the yeast malessizia as one cause of seborrheic dermatitis. People with Parkinson's disease or epilepsy have an increased risk of developing seborrheic dermatitis. The University of Michigan Health System also notes that some people with seborrheic dermatitis do not have sufficient levels of some types of B vitamins in their systems. The National Library of Medicine notes that strokes and head injuries have been associated with seborrheic dermatitis. Also, people who have human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have an increased risk of having seborrheic dermatitis.
Sensitivity to Malessizia
The Georgia Department of Community Health notes that some people are prone to overgrowths of the yeast malessizia, which can cause seborrheic dermatitis and result in a flaky scalp. The causes of this susceptibility to yeast overgrowth include neurological disorders, stress, a suppressed immune system, a hypersensitivity to malessizia, illness, not shampooing enough and having too much oil on the scalp.
Other Causes
The Georgia Department of Community Health lists other causes of flaky scalp, or dandruff, that are not related to seborrheic dermatitis. These causes include eczema, sensitivity to hair care products that results in a condition called contact dermatitis, psoriasis and dry skin.
