Dandruff is a condition where dry skin flakes off of your scalp. Eczema is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition that may cause dry, itchy, and flaky skin. But dandruff and eczema aren’t the same thing.

Dandruff and eczema are two common skin conditions that can affect the scalp. They often result in greasy or dry flakes, itchiness, and skin discoloration.

Dandruff is a condition where dry skin flakes off of your scalp. You may notice these skin flakes stuck in your hair, or they may fall onto your shoulders and become visible on clothing.

Eczema refers to a group of chronic inflammatory skin conditions usually triggered by an immune system reaction.

In some cases, dandruff may be mistaken for eczema and vice versa. Dandruff is also a common symptom of seborrheic dermatitis, another type of eczema that affects the scalp.

However, although both conditions may share some symptoms, they are two different conditions that have a range of different causes, symptoms, and treatments.

Keep reading to learn more about the key differences and similarities between the two.

Here’s how to tell the difference between dandruff and eczema.

Dandruff symptoms

Dandruff is a scalp condition that causes white or gray-looking skin flakes. It affects up to 1 in 2 people globally.

Unlike eczema, dandruff usually isn’t accompanied by inflammation, according to the National Eczema Association. Occasional dandruff also tends to make your scalp dry and the condition is restricted to just your scalp.

Eczema, on the other hand, may affect your scalp, back, chest, legs, and arms, among other body parts.

What does eczema on the scalp look like?

Scalp eczema is also itchy. Unlike dandruff, though, you may also notice the following symptoms:

  • redness or other discoloration on the scalp
  • burning sensations
  • thick scales

If you have a type of eczema called seborrheic dermatitis, you may also experience dandruff. Dry dandruff flakes are considered a mild form of this condition.

However, seborrheic dermatitis is usually characterized by an itchy rash with yellowish, crusty, or greasy scales.

In babies, seborrheic dermatitis is known as cradle cap.

Dandruff and eczema aren’t contagious. Understanding the possible causes of each condition may help you get effective treatments and avoid possible triggers.

Dandruff causes

Dandruff may have a variety of causes, ranging from your hair care routine to underlying health conditions.

For instance, dandruff flakes can be more obvious if you don’t wash your hair regularly, but it’s important to note that dandruff is not caused by a lack of hygiene.

The underlying dry scalp also be worsened by cold weather or stress.

Dandruff is also associated with a yeast called Malassezia, which can colonize on the surface of your skin.

Dandruff may also be a symptom of certain scalp conditions, such as:

Eczema causes

Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition that usually begins between the ages of 2 months and 5 years. It’s associated with an improper skin barrier, which is responsible for keeping your skin hydrated and protected.

Several factors have also been associated with eczema, such as:

If you experience dry, flaky skin on your scalp, you may wonder which condition you have and if one can cause the other.

Can dandruff be caused by eczema?

Yes, dandruff can be related to eczema, including seborrheic, atopic, and contact dermatitis. It’s estimated that up to 1 in 2 people with seborrheic dermatitis have dandruff.

However, in many cases, people with eczema don’t experience symptoms on the scalp.

Does dandruff cause eczema?

Despite some similarities in appearance, triggers, and management, dandruff does notlead to eczema.

One indication that you might have eczema and not dandruff is that you continue to experience symptoms despite using medicated antidandruff shampoos.

Dandruff is a common condition that’s associated with a dry scalp. It can also be a symptom of conditions that may affect the scalp, such as eczema and psoriasis.

However, eczema and psoriasis are chronic skin conditions that may affect other body parts and usually require medical treatment.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that leads to the overproduction of skin cells. These can build up on the skin surface in raised, inflamed, discolored, and sometimes painful skin plaques. It may even cause temporary hair loss.

Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition related to an impaired skin barrier.

Dandruff and eczema may be treated with over-the-counter (OTC) medicated shampoos. Look for shampoos with the following ingredients:

Dandruff treatment

In most cases, OTC medicated shampoos can help clear up occasional dandruff by getting rid of flakes, treating dry scalp, and providing itch relief.

You may need to try multiple products until you’ve found the best shampoo for you. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and consider switching products if you don’t notice any improvements.

Coal tar may cause sun sensitivity, so consider taking precautionary measures when outdoors, such as wearing hats or scarves.

Eczema treatment

Sometimes, scalp eczema may be treated with the same OTC medicated shampoos as dandruff to help relieve itching and scales.

However, you may need prescription eczema treatments for more severe cases of eczema. These may include:

  • topical moisturizers, creams, or ointments
  • prescription steroids (either topical or oral) to help control inflammation
  • topical immunomodulators
  • antihistamines to help control allergies
  • allergy shots
  • antibiotics to treat infections caused by scratching

In most cases, dandruff doesn’t require medical attention.

However, speak with a healthcare professional if your symptoms don’t improve after 1 month of using antidandruff shampoos. This may be an indication of a skin condition.

You may also consider seeing a doctor if your scalp is:

  • extremely itchy
  • red
  • swollen
  • burning
  • showing signs of infection, such as oozing, painful sores

How can you tell the difference between dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis?

Dandruff usually presents as dry, flaky skin on the scalp. This form may be a mild symptom of seborrheic dermatitis, but seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp is usually accompanied by oily skin patches that are oily, crusty, or yellowish.

Does dandruff shampoo work for eczema?

Dandruff shampoo may help relieve mild symptoms of scalp eczema. However, if these don’t help after one month, speak with a doctor. You may need a stronger medication.

Due to flakes and itchiness, dandruff and eczema may look and feel similar at first. But while dandruff is a common condition exclusive to the scalp, eczema is an inflammatory skin condition that may affect other parts of the body and require long-term care.

If you’re experiencing frequent or recurring itchy or flaky scalp despite using OTC medicated shampoos, it may be time to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.