Dry skin on the face and scalp

The face and scalp can become dry after hot water, frequent washing, harsh cleansers, hair chemicals, or a dry environment. Fine scalp flakes may come with tightness or itch, but thicker scale, marked redness, or patches around the hairline can suggest Atopic Dermatitis, Psoriasis, or Asteatotic Eczema. A clinician can distinguish dry skin from a scalp condition that needs targeted treatment.

Use lukewarm water and gentle, fragrance-free products. Massage cleanser or shampoo lightly with fingertips rather than scratching. Apply facial moisturiser after washing; keep a scalp moisturiser or treatment away from the eyes and follow its label. Pause new dyes, relaxers, fragranced oils, and aggressive exfoliation while you observe the pattern. A plain emollient may help exposed dry areas.

Seek medical advice if symptoms continue, recur in the same pattern, or produce thick scale, cracks, bleeding, hair loss, or significant discomfort. Get prompt care for pus, painful swelling, fever, rapidly spreading redness, or facial swelling.

Tell the clinician whether flakes are loose or stuck to the scalp, whether the hairline or ears are involved, and which products touch your face and hair. Ask whether you need a separate plan for facial skin and scalp skin.