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Dandruff vs. Seborrheic Dermatitis

Flakes on your shoulders. An itchy, irritated scalp.

Most of us would call it dandruff without a second thought — but another common culprit, seborrheic dermatitis, is often mistaken for it. While they share some symptoms, their causes (and the way we care for them) are very different.

Your scalp is more than just skin — it’s a reflection of your overall health. Imbalances in the body, from stress to digestion to hormones, often show up here first. That’s why addressing scalp issues isn’t just about what you put on your hair, but also what’s going on within.

We’ll break down the difference between dandruff and seb derm, what’s often prescribed, and how to treat both gently — and naturally — so your scalp can truly heal from the inside out.

The Difference?

Dandruff
· Caused by an overgrowth of a yeast-like fungus (Malassezia) combined with excess scalp oil
· Flakes are usually white, dry, and small
· Itchiness may be mild to moderate
· Often seasonal or triggered by stress, weather changes, or certain products

Seborrheic Dermatitis (Seb Derm)
· Chronic inflammatory scalp condition (can also affect face, ears, and other areas with oil glands)
· Flakes are often yellowish, greasy, and larger
· Typically accompanied by redness, irritation, or soreness
· Can flare with stress, weather changes, hormonal shifts, or immune system changes

What’s Often Prescribed.

If you’ve been diagnosed — or assumed you have dandruff or seb derm — you may have tried medicated shampoos or treatments.

Common prescriptions and over-the-counter options include:
· Anti-fungal shampoos (ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione)
· Coal tar shampoo
· Corticosteroid creams or lotions

Harsh medicated formulas can make matters worse by:
· Stripping the scalp of its protective oils
· Disrupting the microbiome
· Causing further irritation

And perhaps the most overlooked piece? What’s happening internally.

Stress, hormonal shifts, diet, gut health, and immune system changes can all contribute to scalp inflammation — meaning that without addressing these root causes, symptoms are far more likely to return.

How to Treat Naturally

True scalp healing starts with support, not stripping.

By caring for both the scalp’s surface and the body’s internal balance, you can reduce flare-ups and restore a healthy environment for your hair to grow.

From the inside:
· Support your gut health with whole, nutrient-rich foods and probiotic sources.
· Manage stress through rest, mindfulness, or gentle movement — stress is a major seb derm trigger
· Stay hydrated to keep skin (including your scalp) healthy
· Keep an eye on food sensitivities or inflammatory triggers, as these can contribute to flare-ups

From the outside:
1. Cleanse gently, yet effectively.
Use Warrior Shampoo as your go-to for both dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. Infused with white willow bark, chamomile, and yarrow, it soothes irritation, protects the scalp’s barrier, and gently lifts excess oils without stripping.

2. Give your scalp a weekly treatment.
Once a week, massage in Deep Magic Scalp Serum or your favorite Under Luna Conditioner as a nourishing scalp mask. This boosts hydration, calms inflammation, and supports a balanced microbiome.

3. Rinse with care.
Use warm (not hot) water to help preserve your scalp’s moisture barrier and prevent irritation.

4. Stay consistent.
Gentle, regular care is key to restoring balance. Follow your Under Luna ritual daily, and if you’re experiencing heavier buildup or flaking, add an extra wash during the week to help lift and remove scalp congestion.


Lasting relief isn’t about quick fixes — it’s about creating a healthy environment for your scalp to thrive.

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