Many lifestyle factors contribute to dry scalp, but can be controlled. Using hot water when you shampoo and blow drying, can strip away natural oils and cause your scalp to dry. According to the website health911, the yeast called Pityrosporum ovale is the most likely cause of dandruff. If your dry scalp becomes extreme and persistent, consult with your health care provider. He may refer you to a dermatologist for a correct diagnosis.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis, commonly referred to as dandruff, affects areas with a concentration of oil glands. Your scalp is one such area. The symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis include an itchy scalp that produces white flakes that are evident on your dark clothing. When the condition occurs with infants, it is referred to as "cradle cap." The specific cause of dandruff isn't known. However, according to the health911 website, possible causes could be a form of yeast, overactive oil glands, or consuming large amounts of sugar. Shampooing regularly with excessively hot water, and blow drying your hair, can contribute to dandruff.
Plaque Psoriasis
Plaque psoriasis is a common form of psoriasis that can occur anywhere on the skin. However, according to Psoriasis Net, at least 50 percent of the people who experience plaque psoriasis have it on their scalp. Plaque psoriasis occurs on the entire scalp or just on a small part of it. It can appear as a reddish plaque, producing white scales. The symptoms of scalp psoriasis include extremely dry, itchy scalp, bleeding and soreness. Stress, a dry climate and excessive cold cause plaque psoriasis.
Malassezia Folliculitis
Mallassezia folliculitis is a fungus that lives in the scalp of most healthy people, and is seldom recognized. The fungus feeds on the oils secreted by your hair follicles, and can occasionally go out of control. They can irritate your scalp, and cause the growth of more skin cells. As the new skin cells are created, dead skin cells bind with oil from your scalp, and appear as white flakes on your clothing. The Mayo Clinic states that stress, illness, changes in your hormones, not shampooing often enough, and a suppressed immune system, could cause malassezia folliculitis to go out of control.
