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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Scalp Psoriasis and Dandruff?

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Scalp psoriasis and dandruff are both conditions that affect the scalp, causing dryness and flakes. However, they have different characteristics and often require different treatments. Here are the main differences between the two:

  1. Severity of symptoms: Psoriasis often presents with more severe symptoms, such as plaques, bleeding, and itchy or burning skin, while dandruff typically causes smaller, dry flakes on the scalp.
  2. Chronic vs. temporary: Psoriasis is a chronic, long-lasting condition, while dandruff may come and go.
  3. Appearance: Scalp psoriasis often looks like silvery scales or plaques, which may or may not flake off. Dandruff tends to be more visible as flakes, versus plaques on the scalp itself.
  4. Oily or dry: Psoriasis tends to result in dry plaques, while dandruff can be caused by both dry and oily scalp conditions.
  5. Treatment: Dandruff can often be treated with medicated over-the-counter shampoos or conditioners, while psoriasis typically requires more extensive treatments to prevent flares and reduce the severity of the condition.

If you are unsure whether you have scalp psoriasis or dandruff, it is best to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

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  • What is the Difference Between Scalp Psoriasis and Dandruff?
  • Comparative Table: Scalp Psoriasis vs Dandruff

    • Comparative Table: Scalp Psoriasis vs Dandruff

    Here is a table comparing the differences between scalp psoriasis and dandruff:

    Feature Scalp Psoriasis Dandruff
    Cause Autoimmune condition, white blood cells attack skin cells Mild form of seborrheic dermatitis, excessive production of skin cells due to yeast on the scalp
    Chronicity Long-lasting, chronic condition May come and go, not necessarily long-lasting
    Scaliness More scaly than flaky, with silvery, powdery patches that may come off in tiny pieces Flakes are smaller and less scaly, can be accompanied by dry skin elsewhere on the body
    Inflammation Inflammation is present in most cases Inflammation is not a symptom
    Distribution Can spread beyond the hairline to other parts of the body Usually stays within the hairline
    Diagnosis Doctor may examine the scalp or perform a skin biopsy Diagnosed with a physical examination of the scalp, possible skin biopsy if uncertain
    Treatment Requires a steroid or other treatment, can spread to other parts of the body Can be treated at home without a prescription, may require a prescription-strength shampoo

    It is essential to get a proper diagnosis for scalp psoriasis or dandruff, as the treatments and prognoses are different. A medical professional can examine the scalp and, if necessary, perform a skin biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.