Todays topic isnt the most sexy topic, everytime i record a video on this topic i get giggly and want to stop repeating 'yelloow, flaky, white, like snow' but this isnt about me, this is about you. Its my job to help you understand what this is all about why its happening and how to treat it. so here we go. I had a client come in on saturday, she doesnt colour her hair she simply has it trimmed every 8 weeks and she had really dry flaky scalp around her hairline. She washes it frequently wirth anti dandruff smapoo but it doesnt seem to solve the issue. sound familar?
If you’ve ever noticed flakes on your shoulders, you’ve probably wondered: Is this dandruff, or is my scalp just dry? The two are often confused, but here’s the truth — they’re completely different conditions. And treating the wrong one can actually make your scalp worse.
In this post, we’ll break down the differences between dandruff and dry scalp, how to spot the signs of each, and the best treatments for both.
What is Dandruff?
Dandruff is a scalp condition, technically called seborrheic dermatitis. It’s linked to an overgrowth of yeast on the scalp, which causes irritation and shedding of the skin.
Signs of dandruff:
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Flakes that are yellowish, soft, or even oily
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Scalp that feels itchy, irritated, or red in patches
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More common if you have an oily scalp, sweat a lot, or live in a humid climate
The key point: dandruff thrives in oil and moisture. That’s why it often needs medicated treatment, not just hydration.
What is Dry Scalp?
Dry scalp, on the other hand, is about dehydration. Instead of too much oil, your scalp simply doesn’t have enough natural moisture.
Signs of dry scalp:
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Tiny, hard, white flakes (like sea salt)
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Scalp feels tight, itchy, or even sore
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More common in cold weather, with indoor heating, or if you overwash your hair
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Can also be triggered by harsh shampoos, dehydration, or naturally dry skin
The key point: dry scalp is about moisture loss, not fungus.
How to Tell the Difference
Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
👉 Yellowish, sticky, oily flakes + greasy scalp = Dandruff
👉 Tiny, dry, white flakes + tight itchy scalp = Dry scalp
Another hint: dandruff flakes often cling to the scalp or hair, while dry scalp flakes fall off more like dust or snow.
Best Treatments for Dandruff
Because dandruff is a condition, it needs targeted treatment:
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Wash more often to reduce oil build-up (don’t let oils feed the yeast).
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Use a Clarifying Shampoo once a week to reset your scalp.
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Rotate in a salon-grade anti-dandruff shampoo (Kerastase and Davroe both make effective options). You can also chat to your local chemist.
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If your dandruff is severe or persistent, see a doctor or dermatologist. They can prescribe medicated shampoos or topical antifungal treatments.
Best Treatments for Dry Scalp
For dry scalp, the approach is the complete opposite — it’s all about adding moisture:
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Wash less frequently and avoid very hot showers.
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Use gentle shampoos, like a Peppermint Shampoo, to refresh without stripping and massage the scalp while shampooing, firmly but not painfully.
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Pair with a nourishing conditioner — Repair, Blonde, Moisture, or Volume depending on your hair type. For best result follow with the Serene haircare pepermint condioner.
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Apply a scalp oil or leave-in treatment to lock in hydration.
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Use a soft boar bristle brush to gently exfoliate, stimulate circulation, and remove dead skin.
Final Thoughts
Not all flakes are the same — and knowing the difference between dandruff and dry scalp is the first step to treating them effectively.
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Dandruff = oily, sticky, yellowish flakes → needs clarifying and antifungal support.
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Dry scalp = tiny, dry, white flakes → needs hydration and gentle care.
Free Resource: The 90-Day Hair Growth Challenge
If you’d like to take the guesswork out of your routine, I’ve created a free eBook — the 90-Day Hair Growth Challenge. Inside, you’ll find simple scalp rituals, pro hair care tips, and even nutrition ideas to support growth from the inside out.