Persistent itching, flaking, or redness on the scalp can be frustrating — especially when it starts affecting comfort or confidence. Many people assume it’s just dandruff, but sometimes, it may be something more complex, such as scalp psoriasis.
At Dr. Rami Hamed Center (DRHC) in Dubai, our dermatology specialists see many patients who struggle with these concerns and want to understand the difference — and more importantly, how to treat it effectively.
Let’s take a closer look at what causes dandruff and scalp psoriasis, how to tell them apart, and the best treatment options available in Dubai.
Dandruff is very common and usually caused by an overgrowth of a natural yeast on the scalp, called Malassezia, or by excess oil production. This leads to mild irritation and flaking.
Typical signs of dandruff include:
Dandruff is not contagious and often responds well to over-the-counter or prescription treatments when used correctly.
Scalp psoriasis, on the other hand, is a chronic inflammatory condition. It occurs when the immune system causes skin cells to multiply too quickly, leading to thick, scaly patches on the scalp and sometimes beyond the hairline.
Common symptoms include:
Scalp psoriasis can vary from mild to severe and may come and go in cycles. While there’s no permanent cure, effective treatments can control symptoms and significantly improve scalp health.
At Dr. Rami Hamed Center, treatment begins with a thorough scalp assessment to determine the underlying cause — whether it’s dandruff, psoriasis, or a combination of both. Once diagnosed, our dermatologists create a personalized treatment plan to calm inflammation, reduce flaking, and restore scalp comfort.
Specialized shampoos containing ingredients such as salicylic acid, coal tar, zinc pyrithione, or ketoconazole help reduce inflammation, itching, and scaling.
For psoriasis, topical creams or ointments containing corticosteroids, vitamin D analogues, or retinoids may also be prescribed to slow down excessive skin cell production.
Our dermatology department offers scalp detox and cleansing treatments that remove dead skin buildup, soothe irritation, and promote healthy skin renewal. These can be combined with medical treatments to enhance results and provide relief from itching or flaking.
For moderate to severe scalp psoriasis, UV light therapy can be highly effective. Controlled exposure to ultraviolet light helps slow down skin cell turnover and reduces inflammation. This treatment is performed under professional supervision for maximum safety and comfort.
In more resistant cases, systemic medications may be prescribed. These work internally to control inflammation and regulate the immune response. Modern biologic therapies can also be considered for severe psoriasis that doesn’t respond to topical treatments.
In addition to medical treatment, certain daily habits can help keep your scalp healthy:
At DRHC, our dermatologists guide each patient with practical home care tips tailored to their specific condition and scalp sensitivity.