If you’ve been dealing with flakes, itchiness, or soreness that just won’t go away, it might be time to look a little deeper. While dandruff is common, persistent symptoms like these could point to scalp dermatitis, a more stubborn issue that calls for targeted care.
Here’s how to tell the difference, and what you can do to calm, soothe, and restore your scalp health.
Why Your Flaky Scalp Deserves a Closer Look
Just like the skin on your face, your scalp plays an important role in protecting you from irritants. When this natural barrier is disrupted, whether by inflammation, excess oil, or even stress, it can trigger conditions like scalp dermatitis.
Without treatment, these symptoms can worsen and lead to chronic discomfort, hair thinning, or even infection.
What Is Scalp Dermatitis?
Scalp dermatitis refers to inflammation of the scalp caused by various underlying factors. It’s not a single condition, but rather a group of skin issues that disrupt the scalp’s natural balance, often leading to discomfort and irritation.
This inflammation can stem from:
- Excess oil production
- Overgrowth of yeast (Malassezia) on the scalp
- Irritation or allergic reactions to hair products
- Underlying skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis
- Environmental stressors or harsh haircare routines
Scalp dermatitis can take the forms of seborrheic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis and scalp psoriasis. Each type has its own triggers, which is why a proper diagnosis is key to finding the right solution.
Signs It’s Scalp Dermatitis
Scalp dermatitis can vary from person to person, with symptoms that often linger and return in cycles.
- Persistent redness and soreness
Your scalp looks inflamed and feels tender or raw, especially in certain spots. - Crusty or oozing patches
Yellowish crusts or moist, irritated areas may indicate seborrheic dermatitis or an infection-prone scalp. - Itching that doesn’t go away
If you’ve tried anti-dandruff shampoos and your scalp still feels itchy, it could be a sign of a deeper inflammatory condition. - Flakes appearing beyond the scalp
Dermatitis doesn’t always stay on your scalp — it can show up around the eyebrows, ears, sides of the nose, or chest. - Sensitivity or a burning sensation
A tingling or stinging feeling when you wash or style your hair could be your scalp’s way of saying it’s irritated or overwhelmed.
Dandruff vs. Scalp Dermatitis: What’s the Difference?
To help you understand the key differences, here’s a quick side-by-side comparison of dandruff and scalp dermatitis.
| Feature | Dandruff | Scalp Dermatitis (e.g. Seborrheic) |
| Flakes | White or dry | Greasy, yellowish |
| Itching | Mild | Often intense and persistent |
| Redness or soreness | Rare | Common |
| Appearance in other areas | No | Yes (face, ears, chest) |
| Response to dandruff shampoo | Usually improves | Often resistant |
| Underlying cause | Mild scalp shedding | Inflammation, yeast, immune response |
Why Treatment for Dandruff May Not Work for Dermatitis
Dandruff shampoos often contain ingredients like zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, or ketoconazole. These can help with mild dandruff, but may not be sufficient for more severe inflammation.
With dermatitis, the scalp needs soothing, rebalancing, and long-term management to restore skin health and prevent recurrences.
How to Manage and Treat Scalp Dermatitis
With the right care and simple lifestyle adjustments, you can soothe irritation, reduce flare-ups, and support a healthier scalp. Here are some practical tips to help you take control and find relief.
Use Gentle, Fragrance-Free Products
Avoid shampoos and styling products with alcohol, strong fragrances, or harsh sulfates. Look for formulas designed for sensitive or eczema-prone skin.
Wash Hair Regularly — But Not Excessively
Cleansing helps remove excess oil and yeast. Aim to do it 2–3 times per week.
Avoid Scratching or Picking
It’s tempting, but scratching can worsen inflammation and even cause infection. If itching is intense, use a cold compress for relief.
Protect Your Scalp from Heat
Heat styling tools and sun exposure can aggravate inflamed skin. If you’re going outdoors, consider covering your scalp with a breathable scarf or hat to protect it from the sun.
Incorporate Scalp Soothing Ingredients
Look for these ingredients in your shampoo:
- Niacinamide to calm and strengthen
- Aloe vera to soothe and hydrate
- Salicylic acid to gently exfoliate and prevent buildup
When to Seek Professional Treatment for Scalp Dermatitis in Singapore
If your symptoms get worse or start affecting your day-to-day comfort, you should reach out for expert help. Here are some signs it’s time to consider a professional scalp dermatitis treatment in Singapore:
- Flakes spread beyond your scalp
- Itchiness disrupts your sleep or daily routine
- You see crusting, oozing, or bleeding
- You’re losing hair or noticing thinning areas
Dermatitis Care Treatment by TrichoLab
Dealing with an itchy, flaky, or irritated scalp can be really frustrating, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At TrichoLab, our Dermatitis Care Treatment is formulated to gently calm your scalp and give you real relief.
This multi-step scalp dermatitis treatment can:
- Soothe inflammation with a calming scalp mask
- Ease itching and reduce flakes with a gentle antifungal ampoule
- Detox excess oil and impurities
- Help restore your scalp’s natural balance and healthy microbiome
Don’t Brush It Off as Dandruff
Persistent flakes and itching could be signs of something more serious—like scalp dermatitis. At TrichoLab, we offer personalised dermatitis scalp treatment in Singapore backed by clinical expertise and years of experience. Our team focuses on identifying the root cause and providing effective, targeted care to restore your scalp health.
Book a consultation with TrichoLab today.
