Dandruff: Causes, Treatment & How to Get Rid of It

Dandruff is a common scalp condition that causes white or yellowish flakes and, often, an itchy scalp. It is not contagious and is rarely serious, but it can be persistent. This guide explains what causes dandruff and how to get rid of it.

What dandruff looks like

• White or yellowish flakes on the scalp, in the hair, or on the shoulders
• An itchy scalp
• Flakes that look greasy on oily scalps, or small and dry on drier scalps
• Flaking that comes and goes, and may get worse during stress or in cold, dry weather

Dandruff causes

There is usually more than one cause at work:

• Malassezia yeast. This yeast lives on most adults' scalps. In some people it irritates the scalp and speeds up the shedding of skin cells, which shows up as flakes.
• Oily skin and seborrheic dermatitis. Red, greasy skin with yellowish scales points to seborrheic dermatitis, of which dandruff is a mild form. See Seborrheic Dermatitis vs Dandruff.
• Not shampooing often enough. Oil and skin cells build up and become visible flakes.
• Dry skin. Flakes from dry skin are usually smaller and less oily.
• Sensitivity to hair products (contact dermatitis), which can cause a red, itchy, scaly scalp.
• Other skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.

How to get rid of dandruff

1. Choose a shampoo by active ingredient

Over-the-counter anti-dandruff shampoos are the first step. Look for one of these ingredients:

• Zinc pyrithione: works against yeast and bacteria.
• Selenium sulfide: slows the shedding of skin cells and reduces yeast.
• Ketoconazole: an antifungal that targets the yeast.
• Salicylic acid: helps loosen and remove scale.
• Coal tar: slows how quickly skin cells die and flake off.

2. Use it the right way

• Follow the directions on the bottle. Many shampoos work best when left on the scalp for about 5 minutes before rinsing.
• Shampoo more often while flaking is active, then cut back once it is under control.
• If one shampoo works for a while and then stops, alternate with one that has a different active ingredient.

3. Everyday habits that help

• Avoid scratching, which can irritate the scalp further.
• Rinse out styling products well, and stop any product that seems to make your scalp itch.
• Manage stress where you can, since flare-ups often follow stressful periods.

Professional scalp care

Some people with persistent dandruff and flaking also choose professional hair and scalp treatment, such as deep cleansing and scalp care in a scalp lounge, alongside a good home routine. At Maestro, a consultation starts with a look at your scalp and a talk about your concerns. If something looks like it needs medical care, see a dermatologist.

Related: Hair Fall Causes · Seborrheic Dermatitis vs Dandruff

Frequently asked questions

What causes dandruff?

Dandruff is mainly linked to an overgrowth of Malassezia, a yeast that lives on the scalp, together with oily skin. Dry skin, not shampooing often enough and reactions to hair products can also cause flaking.

How do I get rid of dandruff?

Use an anti-dandruff shampoo with an active ingredient such as zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, ketoconazole, salicylic acid or coal tar. Follow the label, and if one shampoo stops working, try one with a different ingredient.

Is dandruff contagious?

No. Dandruff is not contagious and is not caused by poor hygiene, although washing too rarely can make flakes more visible.

Can dandruff cause hair loss?

Dandruff itself does not usually cause hair loss, but heavy scratching of an itchy scalp can damage hair. Hair loss with a red, scaly scalp should be checked by a dermatologist.

When should I see a doctor for dandruff?

See a doctor or dermatologist if flaking does not improve after about a month of using an anti-dandruff shampoo, or if your scalp is very itchy, red, swollen or painful.

Sources

• American Academy of Dermatology: How to treat dandruff
• NHS: Dandruff
• Mayo Clinic: Dandruff, symptoms and causes
• Mayo Clinic: Dandruff, diagnosis and treatment