Sensitive Scalp

Dry Scalp or Dandruff?

Understanding the Difference and How to Care for Sensitive Scalps

If you have sensitive or eczema-prone skin, there’s a good chance your scalp might also feel itchy, flaky, or irritated from time to time. While it’s easy to dismiss these symptoms as simple dandruff, they could be signs of a dry scalp or even scalp eczema, which requires a more tailored approach to care.

What causes scalp flaking?

The scalp, like the rest of your skin, constantly renews itself - shedding dead skin cells in the process. Sometimes, this cycle speeds up and leads to visible flaking. The cause could be:

• Seborrheic dermatitis (the most common type of scalp eczema)
  
  

• Dry scalp (from lack of oil)
  
  

• Sensitivity to haircare products
  
  

• Fungal imbalance on the scalp
  
  

Flaking from a dry scalp often comes with tightness and dryness, while dandruff from seborrheic dermatitis is typically oily, itchy, and produces more noticeable white or yellowish flakes.

You can also have both conditions at once - which is why it’s important to use products that support the scalp barrier without stripping or irritating it.

What’s drying out your scalp?

Everyday habits can make symptoms worse. Common triggers include:

• Over washing or washing with very hot water
  
  

• Harsh shampoos with sulfates, alcohol, or strong preservatives
  
  

• Cold or dry weather
  
  

• Underlying conditions like eczema or psoriasis
  
  

Many conventional shampoos contain foaming agents (like sulfates), fragrances, or preservatives that disrupt the skin barrier and dry out your scalp - even if they feel luxurious to use.

Gentle haircare = healthy scalp

The most effective way to support a sensitive or dry scalp is to switch to mild, sulfate-free formulations that protect the scalp without over-cleansing. Elave Shampoo is free from:

• Sulfates (SLS/SLES)
  
  

• Parabens
  
  

• Alcohol
  
  

• MI/MCI preservatives
  
  

• Dyes and fragrance
  
  

All Elave haircare products are PETA-certified cruelty-free, and vegan-friendly.

Recommended routine for dry or irritated scalps

Elave Shampoo:
A gentle, sulfate-free cleanser for all hair types, including dry, coloured, heat-styled or eczema-prone scalps. Formulated with natural glycerin and conditioning polymers, it cleanses without stripping natural oils, helping to soothe and rehydrate the scalp while leaving hair soft, shiny, and easy to manage.

Elave Conditioner:
This daily-use conditioner hydrates and protects the scalp, neck and shoulders - areas often affected by contact irritation. It reconditions hair without clogging pores or triggering sensitivity, restoring strength, softness, and manageability.

For little ones:

• Elave Baby Shampoo – Paediatric-approved and safe from newborn
  
  

• Elave Junior Shampoo – Gentle, tear-free care for young, sensitive scalps
  
  

When to see a doctor

If flaking, itching or irritation doesn’t improve with gentle, fragrance-free products - or if you suspect an underlying condition like psoriasis or fungal dermatitis - it’s worth consulting your GP or pharmacist for tailored advice.

Healthy hair starts at the scalp.
By choosing kind, effective, and dermatologically approved products, you can calm a dry, itchy scalp while keeping your hair looking and feeling its best - without the harsh ingredients.