Does Dry Scalp Cause Hair Loss? The Real Connection Between Flakes and Follicles

Good news is that a dry scalp alone will not result in any permanent hair loss or balding. A dry scalp is generally characterized by the presence of small, white flakes and is due to a lack of moisture (oil/sebum) in the skin. This kind of hair surface-level dryness does not affect the hair follicle, which is the root structure beneath the skin, permanently.

Yet, the symptoms of the extreme dryness, just like those of dandruff, can induce the temporary shedding of hairs and breaking of hairs that can thus be caught if proper care is taken. Then you may want to seek treatments like PRP to promote better hair growth.

Dry Scalp to Hair Shedding: The Domino Effect

While the dryness itself is still harmless to the follicle, the eventual side effects may deteriorate the hair condition as well as retention of the hair:

1. Trauma from Scratching

The problem that is most likely to lead to the disaster is the inescapable scratching. Therefore, an itchy, dry scalp is the reason for the most frequent, intense, and violent scratching.

• Physical Damage: The repeated damaging of the cuticle (the outer layer of the hair shaft) by the intense scratching makes this part of the hair vulnerable and thus breaking off near the scalp is the most likely way it is going to happen. The result of this is the hair breakage, not hair loss from the root, since the breaking takes place along the hair shaft.
• Follicle Irritation: The inflammation of the hair follicle caused by the over-scratching can quite possibly be the reason for the hair growth cycle getting affected which in turn results in temporary, rapid shedding (Telogen Effluvium) occurrence.

2. Inflammation and Infection Risk

If the dry and itchy scalp is neglected, scratching will eventually lead to the destruction of the skin barrier and, thus:

Secondary Infection: The tiny wounds that result from scratching can be infiltrated by bacteria or fungi, which cause disorders such as folliculitis, thus being the source of these infections. Besides, inflammation that is severe and lasts for a long time, by increasing the stress level of the hair follicle, may also be one of the factors that leads to elevating the hair fall.

Dry Scalp or Dandruff: What Is It?

It is a common misconception among people that a dry scalp is the same as dandruff (Seborrheic Dermatitis). The main point of solving the problem and thus stopping hair shedding is the correct identification of the problem:

In the case of a dry scalp, the main priority should be moisturizing treatments. If the condition is that of dandruff, then you must use antifungal ingredients.

Conclusion

The answer to the question of whether dry scalp causes hair loss is largely negative; however, the act of scratching all the time certainly does. The secret to keeping your hair intact lies in hydrating your scalp and in finding the gentle and effective methods that will relieve your itching.

Quick FAQ

How can I get rid of dry scalp?

One should oil his/her scalp with a proper oil, wear in conditioners, and use shampoos that have hydrating agents like hyaluronic acid or aloe vera.

Is moisturizing going to prevent hair loss?

Yes, by alleviating the itching through moisturizing, therefore stopping the scratching that leads to breakage and shedding will be prevented as ‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌well.