How to fix a flaky scalp

Fine white or yellowish flakes with mild itch may occur with dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis. Thick, sharply defined plaques can fit scalp psoriasis, while broken hairs, tender areas, or patches of hair loss need attention because scalp ringworm can present differently. Product buildup and contact irritation can also cause scale.

Notice whether the scalp is oily or dry, whether flakes extend to the ears or hairline, and whether there is redness, soreness, crusting, or shedding hair. These details help a clinician choose the right treatment.

Wash the scalp regularly with lukewarm water and avoid scratching, picking, or scraping scale. Stop newly introduced fragranced products if burning or redness began after their use. A medicated shampoo treatment may help some causes when used as directed, including allowing the product to remain on the scalp for its recommended contact time.

If scale is thick, painful, widespread, or not improving, arrange a dermatology review rather than layering several active products. A clinician may need to distinguish dandruff from psoriasis, dermatitis, or infection.

Seek prompt advice for painful swelling, pus, extensive crusting, fever, rapidly spreading redness, or patchy hair loss. Arrange an appointment for persistent itch, thick plaques, bleeding from scratching, or flakes that continue despite an appropriate washing routine.

Ask which cause best fits the scale, how often to wash, which medicated shampoo ingredients are suitable, and how long to try the plan. Mention hair products, colouring, recent illness, household contacts with scalp symptoms, and any hair shedding.