An itchy scalp can have several causes, and dandruff is only one of them. Common possibilities include:
Dandruff / seborrheic dermatitis — often causes itching with white or greasy flakes.
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Dry or irritated skin — cold, dry weather or harsh hair products can contribute.
Allergic or irritant reactions — shampoos, conditioners, dyes, fragrances, and other products can cause an itchy rash.
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Scalp psoriasis — may produce thick, dry or silvery scales, redness, itching, or burning.
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Head lice — itching is a common symptom, particularly when accompanied by visible lice or nits attached to hairs.
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Fungal infection (scalp ringworm) — can cause intense itching, scaling, and sometimes hair loss or pus-filled bumps.
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Eczema or other inflammatory skin conditions — can cause redness, scaling, and persistent itching.
Less commonly, nerve-related problems or skin cancer can cause persistent scalp itching, particularly when there is no obvious rash.
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When to get checked: persistent or severe itching, sores, bleeding, significant redness, pus, unexplained hair loss, or a new scalp lesion should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
So an itchy scalp doesn’t automatically mean dandruff or poor hygiene—the appearance of the scalp and any accompanying symptoms help determine the cause.
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