Before we begin: Dandruff, flaking of skin on your scalp, can be annoying and itchy. Learn about how to treat it, as well as cradle cap and other scalp conditions.
This tutorial walks you through everything you need to know about dandruff, cradle cap, and other scalp conditions. We explain it in plain language, step by step, so whether you are a student, a patient, or simply curious, you will come away with a solid understanding.
We cover what it is, why it matters, how it is diagnosed, and what you can do about it. Key facts are called out along the way.
Your scalp is the skin on the top of your head. Unless you have hair loss, hair grows on your scalp. Different skin problems can affect your scalp.
Dandruff is a flaking of the skin. The flakes are yellow or white. Dandruff may make your scalp feel itchy. It usually starts after puberty, and is more common in men. Dandruff is usually a symptom of seborrheic dermatitis, or seborrhea. It is a skin condition that can also cause redness and irritation of the skin.
Most of the time, using a dandruff shampoo can help control your dandruff. If that does not work, contact your health care provider.
There is a type of seborrheic dermatitis that babies can get. It is called cradle cap. It usually lasts a few months, and then goes away on its own. Besides the scalp, it can sometimes affect other parts of the body, such as the eyelids, armpits, groin, and ears. Normally, washing your baby’s hair every day with a mild shampoo and gently rubbing their scalp with your fingers or a soft brush can help. For severe cases, your health care provider may give you a prescription shampoo or cream to use.
Other problems that can affect the scalp include:
Scalp ringworm, a fungal infection that causes itchy, red patches on your head. It can also leave bald spots. It usually affects children.
Scalp psoriasis, which causes itchy or sore patches of thick, red skin with silvery scales. About half of the people with psoriasis have it on their scalp.
Also known as: Seborrhea, Seborrheic Dermatitis.
Related topics: Seborrheic Dermatitis.
Categories: Skin, Hair and Nails.
Source: National Institutes of Health — National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases.
Key Takeaways
Understanding dandruff, cradle cap, and other scalp conditions is an important part of taking charge of your health. Here is what to remember:
- Know the signs — Recognizing early symptoms can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.
- Talk to your provider — If you have concerns or a family history of this condition, bring it up at your next checkup.
- Stay informed — Medical knowledge evolves. Keep learning and asking questions.
- You are not alone — Many people deal with this condition. Support groups and educational resources can help.