Dandruff vs. Folliculitis: How to Identify & Treat Scalp Issues
A healthy scalp leads to good and healthy hair. But most people have itchy, flaky, or inflamed scalps from common scalp problems like dandruff and scalp folliculitis. Though they seem similar, they both have different causes and remedies.
This article will help you distinguish between dandruff and folliculitis, identify the causes, and research the best home remedies and medical solutions.
- What is Dandruff?
Dandruff is a scalp condition that causes flaking, dryness, and mild itching. Dandruff is not contagious and is most often caused by an overgrowth of Malassezia yeast that causes excess shedding of scalp skin.
Symptoms of Dandruff
- White or yellowish flakes on the scalp, hair, and shoulders
- Itchy scalp but no pain or swelling
- Dry or oily scalp
- Worsens in winter or with excessive hair washing
Dandruff Treatment at Home
- Anti-Dandruff Shampoo – Look for shampoos with ketoconazole, salicylic acid, selenium sulfide, or zinc pyrithione.
- Coconut Oil & Lemon – Keeps the scalp moisturized and reduces flaking.
- Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse – Balances scalp pH and kills yeast overgrowth
- Aloe Vera Gel Massage – Relaxing itchiness and irritation.
- Tea Tree Oil Treatment – Antifungal to minimize dandruff.
Medical Treatments for Severe Dandruff
- Medicated shampoos – Ketoconazole (Nizoral), Selenium sulfide, Coal tar shampoo
- Homeopathic Treatment – Individualised remedies at Homeo Care Clinic, Pune
- What is Scalp Folliculitis?
Scalp folliculitis is an inflammation of the hair follicles caused by a bacterial or fungal infection. The bumps on the scalp look like acne and may be painful or itchy.
Scalp Folliculitis Causes
✔ Bacterial infections (Staphylococcus aureus)
✔ Fungal infections (Malassezia)
✔ Excessive sweating & poor scalp hygiene
✔ Hair follicle blockage by oils, gels, or debris
✔ Excessive shaving or hat/helmet friction
Symptoms of Scalp Folliculitis
- Red or white small bumps on the scalp
- Pustules that are painful or itchy and crust over
- Mild tenderness and swelling
- Hair loss may be possible in infected areas
Scalp Folliculitis Treatment
Mild Folliculitis Home Remedies
- Aloe Vera Gel – Reduces inflammation and irritates less
- Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse – pH balance and bacterial kill
- Tea Tree Oil – Natural antibacterial and antifungal treatment
- Turmeric Paste – Anti-inflammatory benefits
Medical Treatments for Severe Folliculitis
- Antibiotic Creams or Oral Antibiotics (For bacterial folliculitis)
- Antifungal Shampoos (Ketoconazole) (For fungal folliculitis)
- Salicylic Acid Shampoos (For exfoliation and control of oil)
For chronic folliculitis consult Dr. Vaseem Choudhary at Homeo Care Clinic, Pune. Get a personal homeopathic cure.
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Key Differences Between Dandruff & Folliculitis
| Feature | Dandruff | Scalp Folliculitis |
| Appearance | White or yellow flakes | Red, inflamed bumps or pustules |
| Cause | Malassezia yeast overgrowth | Bacterial or fungal infection |
| Itchiness | Mild to moderate | Moderate to severe |
| Pain & Swelling | No pain, just flaking | Painful pustules, swelling |
| Hair Loss | Rare | Possible in severe cases |
| Treatment | Anti-dandruff shampoos, home remedies | Antibiotics, antifungal treatment |
| Best For | Moderate to severe hair loss | Mild to moderate hair thinning |
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How to Keep Your Scalp Healthy
- Wash your hair regularly using a mild, sulfate-free shampoo
- Avoid over-oiling, which clogs hair follicles
- Practice good hygiene – Don’t share combs or helmets
- Use warm water to prevent dryness
- Eat a healthy diet with plenty of zinc, biotin, and omega-3 fatty acids
Long-term dandruff or scalp folliculitis can be cured successfully with homeopathy, says Dr. Vaseem Choudhary of Homeo Care Clinic, Pune (Viman Nagar & Magarpatta).
Final Thoughts
A healthy scalp leads to healthy hair. Dandruff and folliculitis look similar, but they have different causes and treatments. Learn to tell the difference so you can treat the cause and prevent long-term scalp problems.
Mild cases may get cured with home remedies and medicated shampoos but if it gets worse, you need to consult a doctor. Homeopathy is a natural, long-term solution that cures the root cause without any side effects.
If you are troubled by dandruff or scalp folliculitis, visit Dr. Vaseem Choudhary at Homeo Care Clinic, Pune (Viman Nagar & Magarpatta), for a customized homeopathic treatment that helps you get rid of the dandruff and restore the scalp health naturally.
In conclusion, Hair PRP Treatment Pune, led by Dr. Vaseem Choudhary and his experienced team at Homeo Care Clinic, is dedicated to providing advanced and effective PRP therapies for both hair and skin rejuvenation. Our goal is to help you feel confident and look your best with treatments designed to address hair thinning and skin concerns naturally. We believe in offering personalized care and creating customized plans to meet each individual’s unique needs, ensuring the best possible results.
To schedule an appointment or learn more about our treatments, please visit our website or call us at +91 9595211594. Our friendly team is here to support you throughout your journey to healthier hair and radiant skin. If you’re looking for the best PRP treatment clinic, we are here to assist.
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