A dry, itchy scalp is more than an annoying affliction. Sure, it can leave your hair studded with embarrassing dandruff, but it can also lead to hair loss and may be a sign of a serious scalp condition like seborrheic dermatitis. And, unfortunately, it’s not always easy to pinpoint the root cause of the problem. “A dry scalp can result from a variety of factors, including over-washing, using harsh hair products, cold weather, or underlying eczema or psoriasis,” says Neil Sadick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “All of these factors can strip scalp sebum, leading to dryness and flaking.”
