Dandruff and itchy scalp: the first question is what kind of flaking it is

Dandruff can come with a dry scalp, but it can also appear with a greasier, irritated scalp. The difference matters because the routine that helps one type may feel wrong for the other.

A mild shampoo, regular washing, and careful rinsing are usually the best place to start. The scalp does not need rough scrubbing, only a routine that is steady enough to keep the skin comfortable.

If the flakes are fine and the scalp feels tight, a simpler and gentler routine may be enough. If the scale is thicker, the scalp is red or sore, or the same problem keeps returning, a more targeted product may be more useful.

If the scalp has thick plaques, sores, oozing, or the itching does not settle, the situation should be checked.

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