Dry skin on the scalp, which sometimes is white or flaky in color and appearance, arises from a number of causes, most relating to climate, environment and personal hygiene. Most often, simple home remedies and changes in behavior solve your dry scalp issues. But under certain circumstances, consultations with your doctor are in order.
Common Causes
Dry winter weather is the culprit behind many cases of dry, white, flaky scalp. If you live in areas with long, cold winters, dry scalp is a common condition you may face. Excessive hair washing, particularly with shampoo lacking moisturizing conditioners, also often leads to dry scalp. A lack or shortage of fatty acids in your diet, dehydration and frequent use of hair dryers may also cause the condition.
Dispelling the Myths
Many people believe the myth that a dry scalp can be washed away. But if you wash your hair excessively with non-moisturizing shampoos trying to rid yourself of dry, white scalp, you will likely only exacerbate the problem. Dr. Rob Hicks, writing for BBC Health, also notes several myths about the white dandruff that often results from dry scalps. Contrary to what some people believe, you can't pass dandruff-causing conditions to another person as an infectious disease, and you don't go bald sooner if you regularly experience dry scalp or dandruff.
Treatments
Using shampoos containing conditioners -- or using a conditioner in conjunction with your shampoo -- often alleviates a dry scalp. Regular gentle scalp massages increase blood flow to a dry scalp, unblock your scalp pores and release natural skin oils, which all aids your dry scalp.
Prevention
Avoiding hot showers and heated styling tools, and allowing hair to air dry rather than using high-heat blow dryers helps prevent dry scalp in the first place. Too much heat irritates and dries out your scalp, notes health and beauty website Daily Glow. Using periodic oil treatments -- available through hair salons or in retail hair-care sections -- also can help prevent the condition.
When to See a Doctor
If flaky, itchy scalps persist following home treatments, you likely need the advice and treatment of a doctor. Dr. Hicks of BBC Health notes such symptoms sometimes result from more serious health conditions, including eczema and psoriasis. These often require prescription skin and hair treatments. See a doctor if redness accompanies dry skin, itching interferes with sleep, open sores form or large patches of skin become scaly and peel, advises MayoClinic.com.
