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Dry scalp can be a side effect of a medication, or from exposure to a substance or toxin. Various genetic disorders and dandruff can also cause dry scalp.
Identification
Dry scalp occurs when the sebaceous gland stops producing the essential oil that coats the hair as it exits the scalp, leaving a dry texture. Symptoms include an itchy, irritated scalp and flaking skin.
Causes
Causes of dry scalp include excessive blow-drying or use of hair products containing alcohol, as well as weather changes, overexposure to heat and air conditioning, dehydration, drastic changes in eating habits and chemically enhanced shampoos, according to 4-men.org.
Dandruff
If dandruff---the shedding of dead skin cells---causes the scalp to flake, the usual treatment is an anti-dandruff or anti-fungal shampoo, which should stay in the hair for the full time specified on the bottle directions.
Misconceptions
Dandruff flakes and dry scalp are not the same, according to dailyglow.com, which says dandruff flakes are "usually oily rather than dry."
Warning
If your dry scalp does not clear up with the recommended changes in daily routine and product use, it may be caused by psoriasis, seborrheic eczema or a thyroid disorders, according to MayoClinic.com.
Source:
Daily Glow: Treating a Dry Flaky Scalp
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