Your scalp is the skin on top of your head — where hair grows, unless you have hair loss — and like any skin it can have problems.
Dandruff
Dandruff is flaking skin on the scalp. The flakes are yellow or white, and your scalp may itch. It usually starts after puberty and is more common in men.
Dandruff is usually a symptom of seborrheic dermatitis (seborrhea), a skin condition that can also cause redness and irritation. A dandruff shampoo usually keeps it under control; if it doesn't, see your health care provider.
Cradle cap
Cradle cap is a kind of seborrheic dermatitis that babies get. It usually lasts a few months and then clears up on its own. Besides the scalp, it can sometimes affect the eyelids, armpits, groin and ears.
Washing your baby's hair every day with a mild shampoo and gently rubbing the scalp with your fingers or a soft brush usually helps. For severe cases, your provider may prescribe a shampoo or cream.
Other scalp problems
| Condition | What it does |
|---|---|
| Scalp ringworm | a fungal infection causing itchy, red patches; it can leave bald spots and usually affects children |
| Scalp psoriasis | itchy or sore patches of thick, red skin with silvery scales; about half of people with psoriasis have it on the scalp |
Sources
Based on the MedlinePlus health topic "Dandruff, Cradle Cap, and Other Scalp Conditions," National Library of Medicine; a work of the United States government in the public domain.
Licence: CC0 1.0 (public domain) · Adapted from medlineplus.gov
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