Although dandruff is a frequent ailment of the scalp, not every flake is actually what it appears to be. While some people may disregard dandruff as simply a mistake in hair care, it may also be an indication of a more serious scalp condition, such as a fungal infection. It's simple to confuse them, but by knowing the major distinctions, one may receive the proper diagnosis and treatment before the issue worsens. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. BL Jangid, a dermatologist and hair transplant surgeon at New Delhi's SkinQure Clinic, discussed the main distinctions between dandruff and fungal scalp infections.

"To the casual eye, dandruff looks like a dusting across the hair and shoulders, while strands catch the light and show tiny piles resting on the skin," he said, highlighting how similar they might appear at times. Dandruff, however, can also be something else at times. Many individuals misidentify one for the other since fungal infections and dandruff share many of the same symptoms, including itching, flaking, and an unpleasant sensation on the scalp. However, knowing which problem is what is crucial, since the underlying cause might vary and the optimal course of treatment may alter. As Dr Jangid also reminded us, it is crucial to distinguish between the treatments since they are different. Doctors prescribe antifungal medication for fungal infections, not simply any dandruff shampoo.

With the help of a thorough guide, Dr. BL Jangid explained the differences, highlighting the main differences along with symptoms that might point to the need for a dermatologist appointment. The advice he gave is as follows:

What is dandruff?

• Dandruff itself is a widespread scalp nuisance that causes loose white or light yellow flakes to drift off the head.
• Its roots vary. Skin that is too oily or too dry, sensitivity to shampoos or gels, and even that same Malassezia yeast living on everyone up there, which, in some people, sparks mild inflammation.
• So while the fungus sits on most scalps without fuss, it can provoke symptoms in the unlucky few and snow-balling flakes follow.

What is a fungal scalp infection?

• It may itch, yet the urge tends to stay faint, stopping short of the full-body scratching seen with deeper infections.
• Fungal infections on the scalp, most often tinea capitis or scalp ringworm, grow when dermatophytes-small, skin-loving fungi-take hold in the skin, hair, and follicles.
• As the fungus spreads, the scalp can turn very red, flake or crust over, lose hair in patches, and, in severe cases, swell or fill with pus.
• Unlike ordinary dandruff, a fungal infection can pass from one person to another and tends to show up more in kids, although grown-ups catch it, too.
• Because of this, treatment usually requires prescription antifungal pills or ointments that a doctor writes, not the over-the-counter products found on a drugstore shelf.

What are the key differences between dandruff and fungal scalp infections?

Although only a skilled dermatologist can provide an official diagnosis, a few simple hints can help you identify the correct issue:

Flake texture: Ordinary flakes feel dry and drift-free, whereas fungal scales are thicker, greasier, and cling harder to the skin.

Place and distribution: Dandruff is almost solely found on the scalp; a fungus may spread to the temples, neck, or even the ears.

Hair loss: With infection, patchy bald patches appear, but they are uncommon if your scalp issue is only flakes.

Inflammation: Generally speaking, additional redness, swelling, heat, or soreness are indicative of a fungal infection rather than simply dandruff.

When to visit a doctor?

When these persist for more than a week:

• Itching
• Burning
• Unexplained patches

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