Do I have Dry Scalp or Dandruff? What's the difference and how can I get rid of it?

I believe that one of the most confusing subjects pertaining to hair, is trying to figure out. What those annoying flakes are that like to pop up, while you tryna look cute. I mean it is very unattractive for a guy to see while combing his fingers through your hair a halo of flakes sitting on your shoulders. And you can't hide from wearing black your entire life. So let's together get to the bottom of this. So prince charming won't get scared and run from the site of "the little snow storm" in your head.

For years we have told ourselves and others that African Americans can not get dandruff. Which is totally FALSE in fact there  is found to be a higher prevalence of dandruff among our African American adults than Caucasian or even Chinese adults.

And when it comes down to dry scalp unfortunately we hold highest in that category as well. And even though from far away to you they both are the same. They are actually two totally opposite conditions. One is when your hair is too oily (dandruff) and the other is when your hair is too dry (dry scalp) so let me break it down a little bit more for you.

Dry Scalp looks grey or ashy. The skin may flake or peel off as well as become itchy and inflammed. If scratched or left untreated. Your scalp may also scale, these scales are white or may appear silver. And can be very thick and intense. Some people are drier than others which means basically your scalp is dehydrated and that can lead to hair breakage or loss.

Causes of dry scalp: washing hair in excessive hot water, winter, cotton hats and scarves, washing hair too often and of your diet.

People get confused in thinking they need oil to solve the problem. But if your an avid reader of my blog you know, that oil is not moisture. Oil makes hair shine, it does not moisturize the scalp. So please stay away from ingredients such as mineral oil, and petroleum based products.

Now for dandruff it is a mild form of seborrheic dermatitis which is a scalp condition that not only affects African-Americans but ALL RACES and ethnicities. It is a common flaking of the scalp that regularly affects 15 to 20 percent of the worlds population. Which means you are not the only one fighting this battle.

Cause of dandruff: Its hard to say exactly what is the cause of dandruff, some causes are stress, diet, hormones, and weather.

Now that you have a better understanding of the two, let's try to get rid of it!  First things first go and see a dermatologist to find out what you have.

When you find out, here are some helpful tips to having a healthier happier scalp.

To treat and get rid of dandruff:
First find a shampoo that contans eucalyptus, menthol, tea tree oil, or peppermint oil. Concntrate on more natural products because some of them maybe too harsh for your hair. Also you may just add one of the oils to your everyday moisturizing shampoos.

Step 1: Take a parting comb and gently lift the dandruff off the scalp as much as possible.
Step 2: Shampoo hair twice with Dandruff shampoo with lukewarm water.
Step 3: Apply a moisturizing conditioner to scalp with a plastic cap and sit (no dryer) for 10 mins.
Step 4: Rinse hair thoroughly
Step 5: Apply a leave in spray/heat protect and blow dry and style as desired.

Please stay away from oils and other heavy products. (Dandruff loves oil)
You may repeat this treatment twice a week.

Another remedy which is what I use on my clients is:
Step 1: Mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with equal parts water add a drop of Tea Tree Oil or Peppermint oil.
Step 2: Section hair and apply to scalp only. Sit with plastic cap for 20 mins.
Step 3: Rinse with moisturizing shampoo follow by conditioner.

How to treat and get rid of dry itchy scalp:
1. Stay away from mineral oils, and other heavy products.
2. Drink plenty of water.
3. Try to wash hair every two weeks. (If you do hardcore cardio,then your excused)
4. Use steamer with moisturizing conditioner for 20 mins. Once every month or depending on climate change.
5. Eat dark vegetables, like Kale and greens.
6. Try Profolla Silk Moisture Shampoo and Conditoner.

If this doesn't work, then maybe you don't have it. And you should talk to a dermatologist to find out.