National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI) Cosmetology Practice Exam

What is the medical term for dandruff?

1. Dermatitis

2. Pityriasis

3. Psoriasis

4. Seborrhea

The correct answer is: Pityriasis

The medical term for dandruff is recognized as seborrhea, which refers to a condition characterized by the overproduction of oil and the subsequent shedding of skin cells, often resulting in flaking on the scalp. This condition aligns with what is commonly referred to as dandruff. While dermatitis is a broader term used to describe inflammation of the skin, it does not specifically indicate the condition characterized by flaking on the scalp. Pityriasis refers to a group of skin conditions, including certain forms that may cause flaking, but it is not specifically synonymous with dandruff itself. Psoriasis is a distinct autoimmune condition that leads to red, scaly patches on the skin and is not directly related to the oily, flaky nature seen in dandruff. Thus, understanding that seborrhea conveys the precise nature of dandruff and its underlying causes clarifies why it is the correct choice.