Dandruff vs Seborrheic Dermatitis vs Psoriasis and Ringworm - What’s the Difference?

It’s common to see flakes or itching on the scalp and assume it’s just dandruff. But not all flakes are the same. Conditions like seborrheic dermatitis (scalp eczema), psoriasis, and ringworm can look similar, yet they each have unique causes and treatments. Understanding the difference is the first step in finding relief and caring for your scalp properly.

At T Scalp Therapy & Spa, we help clients maintain scalp balance through supportive therapies - always alongside medical guidance when needed.

Scalp with Dandruff

Dandruff vs Seborrheic Dermatitis vs Psoriasis: Key Differences

Dandruff: The Most Common Culprit

What it is: Dandruff is the mildest and most common scalp condition, caused by excess oil, buildup, or sensitivity to yeast on the skin.

Signs:

• White or yellow flakes on hair and shoulders

• Mild itchiness

• Usually seasonal or stress-triggered

What helps:

• Gentle exfoliation and scalp detox

• Using the right shampoo for your scalp type

• Regular cleansing to reduce buildup

→ 7 Signs Your Scalp Needs a Detox

Scalp with Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic Dermatitis (Scalp Eczema): When Flakes Get Intense

What it is: A chronic inflammatory condition — often called scalp eczema — that goes beyond simple dandruff.

Signs:

• Red, irritated scalp

• Thick, greasy flakes that cling to hair

• Itchiness that doesn’t go away easily

What helps:

• Dermatologist-prescribed medicated shampoos or treatments

• Supportive scalp detox at a headspa to reduce buildup and soothe irritation

• Stress management, as flare-ups often worsen during stressful times

Scalp with Psoriasis

Psoriasis: An Autoimmune Condition

What it is: Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease where skin cells multiply too quickly, leading to thick, scaly patches that can appear on the scalp.

Signs:

• Silvery-white or thick scales

• Red, inflamed patches

• Itching or soreness that may extend beyond the scalp

What helps:

• Dermatologist treatment is essential — prescription creams, light therapy, or medications

• Headspa care can support comfort by keeping the scalp clean and reducing buildup around plaques, but does not replace medical care

Scalp with Ringworm

Ringworm (Tinea Capitis): A True Fungal Infection

What it is: Ringworm is a fungal infection that affects the scalp and hair shafts. Unlike dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis, it is contagious and requires medical treatment.

Signs:

• Patchy hair loss

• Round, scaly spots

• Itching or tenderness

• Sometimes swelling or pus in more advanced cases

What helps:

• Requires antifungal medication from a doctor

• Supportive treatments like detox and soothing headspa rituals may help comfort the scalp during recovery

  
  

Why Getting the Right Diagnosis Matters

Because these conditions look similar, it’s easy to misdiagnose them at home. What seems like dandruff might actually be seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, or even ringworm. That’s why consulting a dermatologist is always recommended for persistent, painful, or worsening scalp issues.

How T Scalp Therapy & Spa Supports You

At T Scalp Therapy & Spa, we don’t replace medical treatment, but we do provide therapies that complement it:

• Scalp Detox Rituals: Gently cleanse buildup and flakes for a healthier scalp environment.

• Relaxation Therapies: Stress can worsen flare-ups, so we prioritize calming treatments.

• Progress Tracking: Each visit, we help you see improvements in scalp health and comfort.

• Personalized Care with Your Prescriptions: If you have medicated shampoos or ointments prescribed by your dermatologist, you are welcome to bring them. We can incorporate these into your scalp therapy session to support your treatment plan.

• Consistent Scalp Care: Regular scalp washes at a headspa, typically once a week or every other week, can help manage buildup, reduce irritation, and keep your scalp in better condition between medical treatments.

By combining medical care with supportive scalp therapy, you can feel more comfortable, confident, and in control.

Dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis (scalp eczema), psoriasis, and ringworm may look similar, but they each require different care. Knowing the difference between dandruff vs seborrheic dermatitis vs psoriasis helps you take the right next step toward treatment and scalp comfort. The right diagnosis and a consistent care routine make all the difference.

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