Dandruff v dry scalp … What’s the difference?

WORDS: Bernadette Cliff, style director and head technician, TONI&GUY Broadbeach PHOTOGRAPHY Supplied

Dry scalp and dandruff can often be mistaken for each other as they can have similar symptoms – flaky pieces of scalp dropping off, scattered through the hair and often falling onto shoulders.

A dry scalp is caused by a lack of or inability to retain, moisture in the scalp and the flakes are normally smaller and whiter. Dandruff occurs when a naturally formed fungus is present on the scalp and the flakes are generally bigger, can be oilier and can range from white to yellowish white. It is possible to have both conditions at the same time.

To fix the hydration issue of dry scalp, try shampoos and conditioners such as Label.m Organic Orange Blossom or Wella System Professional Balance Scalp Shampoo and Scalp Mask. There is also a Wella System Professional Balance Lotion – a weightless, leave-in moisturiser for the scalp.

When it comes to dandruff, the Wella System Professional trio – Purify Shampoo, Purify Mask and Purify Conditioner – will clear it up for you.