A flaky scalp can be annoying and embarrassing. Dry skin is the number one reason for flakiness of the scalp, reports the Mayo Clinic. Flakiness and itchy also is a common sign of dandruff. Dandruff flakes tend to be larger and oilier than those resulting from dry skin. Certain other conditions also may cause the scalp to become flaky.
Types
Sebborheic dermatitis, or SD, and psoriasis are common conditions that can result in a flaky scalp. Sebborheic dermatitis can cause persistent dandruff along with a red, itchy and scaly scalp, reports the Mayo Clinic.
Psoriasis causes cells to accumulate at hurried pace on the surface of the skin, causing thick silvery scales to form. Scalp psoriasis may also be accompanied by itchy, red, dry patches that can be painful.
Effects
It may be hard to differentiate between scalp psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp. Psoriasis tends to produce thicker and drier scales that can range from a sprinkling of dandruff like scales to significant flare-ups that cover large areas.
SD typically causes the scalp to form flaky, white or yellowish scales that may cling to the hair shaft. SD can also cause the scalp to appear greasy.
Considerations
Both seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis can affect other areas of the body. For example, people with scalp psoriasis may experience minor outbreaks on the hands, feet, elbows or knees, reports the Mayo Clinic
Seborrheic dermatitis may also show-up on other oily areas such as the the sides of your nose, between the eyebrows and behind the ears. SD in infants is called cradle crap. Symptoms typically include thick, crusty or greasy yellow patches on the scalp. Unlike adult SD, cradle cap usually doesn't itch.
Causes
Excessive oil production combined with irritation from a yeast known as malessizia are believed to cause seborrheic dermatitis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center or UMMC. Genetics, oily skin, acne, fatigue obesity and neurological disorders such Parkinson's disease, may all contribute to SD.
Psoriasis is an immune system disorder that causes overactive white blood cells to mistakenly attack health cells as they would to fight an infection. Obesity, smoking, stress and family history of the condition can increase your risk of psoriasis.
Treatment
Seborrheic dermatitis cannot be prevented or cured, according to the American Academy of Dermatology or AAD. Over-the-counter medicated shampoos that contain selenium sulfide, ketoconazole, tar or salicylic acid may help control symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis and scalp psoriasis.
Scalp psoriasis can be harder to treat than SD dermatitis. Applying mineral oil to scalp and covering with a shower cap overnight may diminish inflammation and help loosen scales associated with psoriasis. Persistent cases of scalp psoriasis may benefit from prescription oral medications, such as methotrexate or cyclosporine.
