What should you know about red scalp dandruff?

Dandruff causes visible flaking and can be accompanied by itch. Seborrheic dermatitis may make the scalp red, itchy, and greasy or flaky, and can also affect areas such as the eyebrows, ears, or sides of the nose. A reaction to hair dye, fragrance, oils, or styling products may irritate the scalp. Thick plaques, crusting, pustules, or sharply defined patches suggest that another diagnosis should be considered. Scratching can create tenderness and open skin.

Wash regularly with a gentle shampoo and rinse thoroughly. If a pharmacist or clinician recommends it, use a medicated shampoo as directed and allow its active ingredients the stated contact time. Pause newly added hair products and avoid picking flakes. Keep a record of triggers, wash frequency, and whether redness extends beyond the scalp. A clinician may choose medicated shampoo treatment or topical antifungal treatment after examining the scalp.

Get prompt care for severe pain, swelling, pus, fever, rapidly worsening redness, or widespread crusting. Arrange an appointment if flakes do not settle with appropriate self-care, the scalp bleeds from scratching, or you notice patchy hair loss or broken hairs. Sudden facial swelling or breathing difficulty after a hair product is an emergency.

Could this be dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, infection, or product irritation? Which shampoo is suitable for my scalp, and how should I use it? Should I stop a hair dye or styling product? Do the redness or hair changes require testing?