Knoxville Dermatology Group > Dandruff or Seborrheic Dermatitis?

Dandruff or Seborrheic Dermatitis?

May 7th, 2018
By Knoxville Dermatology Group

 

Dandruff is small white flakes that appear on the head and scalp that can migrate to the shoulders. Many have faced issues with dandruff but if side effects persist, it could be something else. Another condition, seborrheic dermatitis, has similar implications to dandruff but is far more serious.

Dandruff

More than 50% of the U.S. population is affected by dandruff. It typically begins in puberty and is more common in men. Dandruff builds when there is an excess of skin cells that grow and die off quickly. Things like stress or sickness can increase the chances of dandruff, and often cold, dry weather does as well. There are many ways to fight dandruff using drugstore products or at home remedies. Dandruff isn’t anything to worry about. If after use of drug store products the scalp becomes red or irritated, you may need to seek medical attention.

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic Dermatitis is slightly more serious than dandruff. It looks the same as dandruff, with flakes appearing on the scalp, able to spread. Seborrheic Dermatitis is known to appear with a burning red scalp. It is more common to spread all over the body where hair is present as opposed to solely the scalp. It can appear on eyebrows, arms and even the face. Seborrheic Dermatitis is often referred to as dandruff, seborrheic eczema or seborrheic psoriasis.

If you notice an increase in dandruff or any other side- effects, contact KDG at 865-690-9467 to see one of our providers.

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