Scalp Diseases: Seborrheic Dermatitis, Scalp Psoriasis, Folliculitis and Ringworm

Short answer: Dandruff, itching, scaling and small pimples on the scalp are usually diseases of the skin rather than of the hair. Most are one of four conditions, and they are told apart in the clinic with a dermoscope and, if needed, a simple fungal test.

Seborrheic dermatitis

By far the most common: greasy yellowish scales, itching, often with redness beside the nose and in the eyebrows. Chronic and relapsing; the goal is control, not cure. Shampoo choice and how it is used matter more than the brand.

Scalp psoriasis

Thick, silvery, sharply bordered plaques that may extend beyond the hairline. Frequently mistaken for dandruff, treated differently. Nails, elbows and knees are examined.

Folliculitis

Red, sometimes pus-topped bumps at the hair roots, typically at the nape and crown, triggered by shaving, helmets, sweat and oily products. A rare variant, folliculitis decalvans, causes permanent hair loss.

Tinea capitis (scalp ringworm)

Mostly in children: scaly patches with broken hairs, sometimes swollen and tender. Often confused with alopecia areata. Requires oral antifungal medication.

Which of them cause hair loss?

Seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis do not cause permanent loss, though inflammation increases shedding. Untreated ringworm and the scarring folliculitides can. Round smooth patches point to alopecia areata instead. Any scalp disease is brought under control before procedures such as PRP or mesotherapy.

International patients

Our practice is in Kırklareli, Türkiye, about 2 hours from Istanbul and about 45 minutes from Edirne. Consultation, trichoscopy and the first treatment are usually completed in a single visit. See our hair loss treatments page for the overall approach.

Appointments: +90 555 209 09 39 (WhatsApp) · info@drkagancingoz.com · İstasyon Mah. Edirne Cad. No:102, Kırklareli, Türkiye

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More from the hair series: Hair loss treatments · Androgenetic alopecia · Telogen effluvium · Alopecia areata · Scarring alopecias · Trichoscopy and hair analysis · Hair PRP · Hair mesotherapy