What to have ready for the call.
Note when flaking, itch, redness, or skin-colour change began; where it occurs; products or shampoos already tried; and any pain, swelling, drainage, fever, or eye symptoms. Photos in good light may help show change, but they cannot confirm an unclear scalp or skin diagnosis.
A callback request is not a diagnosis, prescription, referral, laboratory requisition, document, payment, or confirmed appointment. The clinic reviews the concern and may recommend another setting.
When an examination, testing, or another setting may be needed.
This guide cannot decide whether it is safe to wait or which care setting is right for an individual concern. Some concerns need an in-person examination, testing, or another setting. If you are unsure where to go, contact an appropriate in-person healthcare professional or care setting for individual guidance. Use prompt in-person care if you are concerned about worsening symptoms.
Know when not to wait.
Seek prompt in-person care for increasing pain, warmth, swelling, redness, red streaks, pus, fever, or a rash that is worsening or spreading. Call 911 for trouble breathing, swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, or another possible emergency.
Virtual care is not appropriate for every concern. If your symptoms are severe, rapidly worsening, or may be an emergency, use emergency services or immediate in-person care instead of waiting for a callback.
Common questions about dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.
Are dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis the same thing?
Dandruff is the most common and mild form of seborrheic dermatitis. This does not mean every flaky or itchy scalp is dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis; other skin concerns can look similar.
Could scalp flakes or itching mean head lice?
Itching or flakes alone do not confirm lice. Do not use a head-lice product unless live lice are found in the hair; nits can resemble dandruff, so seek advice if you are unsure.
Can a photo confirm dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis?
No. A photo may help show a location or change over time, but scalp and skin conditions can look alike and may require an examination.
What if facial redness comes with eye symptoms?
Eye pain, vision changes, light sensitivity, increased drainage, or redness or swelling around the eye need assessment. Do not assume eye symptoms are a minor skin condition or wait for photo-only advice.
Can I send a dandruff request to AlbertaMD?
Eligible people physically in Alberta can send a clinic-reviewed request. The clinician decides whether virtual care, an examination, or another setting is appropriate; the request does not guarantee a diagnosis, treatment, prescription, or coverage of medicines.
Non-emergency request
Request a doctor call today.
For people physically in Alberta with a valid Alberta Health Care card. Doctors usually call back within 60 minutes during operating hours, 8 AM–10 PM Mountain Time. Timing depends on the concern and appropriate care setting; it is an expectation, not a guarantee. Requests submitted before 8 AM or after 10 PM Mountain Time do not have a 60-minute or same-day callback promise. The public form does not state a specific review time or missed-call procedure. If your concern cannot wait, use appropriate in-person care; call 911 for a possible emergency.