Dandruff or Dry Scalp Quiz: Find Your Scalp Type
Quick, free scalp type quiz. Instant results.
Editorial: Review CompletedCreated By: Kirsten Berg PoggenklassUpdated Aug 26, 2025
This quiz helps you tell dandruff from a dry scalp and see if your scalp is dry, oily, or flaky. You will get clear, instant results plus simple next steps. To learn more, try the eczema type quiz, explore the hair type quiz, or check the hair loss quiz for related tips.
How often do you see white flakes on your shoulders?
How would you describe your scalp's itchiness?
After washing, how does your hair and scalp feel?
How oily is your scalp by midday?
What type of shampoo do you currently use?
How long does it take for flakes to appear after washing?
What color are the flakes you notice?
Do you notice redness or inflammation on your scalp?
How would you describe your hair texture?
How often do you change pillowcases due to flakes?
When under stress, what happens to your scalp?
In humid or hot weather, your scalp reacts how?
How often do you scratch your scalp?
Oily Scalp with Flakes
Your scalp feels greasy soon after washing, and you see larger, oily flakes. Oil buildup traps dead skin cells, causing visible shedding. You should use a clarifying or anti-dandruff formula designed for oily scalps, and shampoo more frequently. Regular exfoliation and a lightweight conditioner on ends only will balance oil production.
Mild Dandruff
You see white flakes regularly and notice mild itchiness, especially between washes. Your scalp produces normal oil levels but flakes return quickly. You likely need an over-the-counter anti-dandruff shampoo, used two to three times weekly. Consistency will help control flaking and reduce itching over time.
Healthy, Flake-Free Scalp
You rarely notice flakes or discomfort on your shoulders or scalp. Your hair and skin feel balanced, and your scalp maintains its natural moisture. You can generally skip anti-dandruff products and stick to a gentle daily shampoo. Keep up your routine and monitor occasionally to stay flake-free.
Dry Scalp with Occasional Flakes
You experience tightness or slight itchiness when your scalp loses moisture. Flakes appear infrequently, usually after you go several days without washing. You benefit from a hydrating shampoo and conditioner that restore moisture. Try incorporating a weekly scalp massage with natural oil to soothe dryness.
Signs of Seborrheic Dermatitis
You experience intense itching, redness, and yellowish, greasy scales rather than simple white flakes. Your scalp may feel inflamed and tender to the touch. A medicated shampoo containing ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, or zinc pyrithione can offer relief. If symptoms persist, consider consulting a dermatologist for tailored treatment.
Profiles
Discover whether your flakes are dandruff, dryness, or something else. These profiles reveal how do I know if I have dandruff, pinpoint your scalp type, and offer a quick tip to help you take action.
- Dry Scalp Dandruff -
If you answered mostly A's, your scalp is parched, shedding tiny white flakes without oil buildup. You might wonder "do i have dandruff or just dryness?" Tip: Use a moisturizing, anti-dandruff shampoo with gentle exfoliation to restore balance.
- Oily Scalp Flakes -
You chose many B's, indicating sebum overload that clumps with skin cells into yellowish, greasy flakes. This seborrheic condition makes you ask "how to tell if u have dandruff or just oily scalp?" Tip: Try a zinc-pyrithione or salicylic acid formula to control oil and flake formation.
- Sensitive or Itchy Scalp -
Your pattern of C's suggests inflammation or sensitivity aggravating flaking, often mistaken for dandruff. You may be wondering "how do u know if u have dandruff when it feels more like irritation?" Tip: Opt for a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic scalp treatment to calm itch and reduce flakes.
- Lice or Dandruff? -
If D's dominated, some tiny, fast-moving specks could be lice or their eggs, not dandruff. This outcome answers your "lice or dandruff quiz" question head-on. Tip: Inspect strands under a bright light, then consult a professional for safe lice removal if needed.
- Balanced, Flake-Free Scalp -
You scored evenly or mostly E's, showing a healthy scalp with minimal flaking - congratulations on no dandruff! Continue your routine and check in on signs like itch or excess oil to maintain balance. Tip: Gentle cleansing 2 - 3 times a week and occasional scalp massage will keep flakes at bay.
