Dry flaky scalp and hair loss

Flakes do not by themselves identify why hair is shedding. Scratching an itchy scalp can break hairs or injure skin, while tight hairstyles, heat, bleaching, or chemical services can cause breakage that looks like loss. Dandruff or Seborrheic Dermatitis may inflame the scalp without causing lasting follicle damage. Scalp Psoriasis can produce thick scale that makes hairs shed temporarily when scale is removed. Scalp Ringworm is especially important to assess when there are round or spreading patches, broken hairs, tenderness, swelling, or areas with reduced hair density.

Wash gently, loosen scale with water rather than force, and keep nails away from the scalp. Pause tight braids, extensions, harsh dyes, and heated tools while the scalp is sore or shedding. Avoid sharing brushes, hats, and towels if an infection is possible. Photographing the same areas under similar light can help show whether the pattern is spreading. A clinician may recommend Medicated Shampoo Treatment for flaking, while hair loss may require a separate examination of the scalp and follicles.

Arrange a dermatology appointment for new, persistent, or patchy hair loss with scale. Seek prompt care for pain, pus, fever, a boggy swelling, rapidly expanding patches, broken hairs, or eyebrow involvement. Do not pick thick scale or begin multiple strong products at once, because this can obscure the pattern and further irritate skin.

Is the hair being shed from the root or breaking near the scalp? Could Dandruff, Seborrheic Dermatitis, Scalp Psoriasis, or Scalp Ringworm explain the findings? Do I need an examination or testing before starting treatment?