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Dandruff
Mild
Dandruff is a common scalp condition that causes visible flakes and itching. It may occur with an oily or dry scalp and is often associated with changes in the scalp skin and growth of a yeast that normally lives on the skin. Dandruff can be persistent or recurrent and may become more noticeable during periods of stress, cold weather, or changes in scalp care. Severe or persistent symptoms may indicate another scalp condition.
Body System
Skin Hair & Nails
When to Seek Medical Attention
Dandruff is usually a mild condition and is not an emergency. Seek medical assessment if scalp scaling is severe, persistent, painful, associated with significant redness or swelling, or does not improve with appropriate care. Prompt evaluation is appropriate if there are signs of infection such as pus, increasing pain, or fever.
Symptoms
2
Causes
2
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Dandruff is a common scalp condition that causes visible flakes and itching. It may occur with an oily or dry scalp and is often associated with changes in the scalp skin and growth of a yeast that normally lives on the skin. Dandruff can be persistent or recurrent and may become more noticeable during periods of stress, cold weather, or changes in scalp care. Severe or persistent symptoms may indicate another scalp condition.
Symptoms 2
Difficulty Falling Asleep
Watery Eyes
Causes 2
Dandruff is associated with increased shedding of scalp skin cells and may be influenced by excess oil production, irritation, and growth of the yeast Malassezia that normally lives on the scalp. Changes in the scalp environment can contribute to inflammation and flaking. Dandruff may overlap with or resemble seborrheic dermatitis and can sometimes be associated with other inflammatory scalp conditions.
Infection
Stress
Risk Factors
Risk may increase with an oily scalp, stress, cold or dry weather, infrequent scalp cleansing, and sensitivity to products used on the scalp. Some people with neurological or immune-related conditions may experience more persistent seborrheic-type scalp symptoms. Dandruff can occur at any age but is particularly common after puberty.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Dandruff is usually diagnosed by examining the scalp and identifying characteristic flaking, scaling, and irritation. No specific laboratory test is normally required. When symptoms are severe, persistent, extensive, or atypical, a healthcare professional may assess for seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, contact dermatitis, fungal infection, or another scalp disorder. Further testing is generally guided by the findings of the examination.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Dandruff cannot always be completely prevented, but regular scalp care can help control recurrent flaking
Washing the hair regularly and using an appropriate anti-dandruff shampoo can reduce scaling and oil buildup
Depending on the individual, products containing ingredients such as ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, zinc pyrithione, or salicylic acid may be useful
Avoiding products that irritate the scalp and following product directions can help maintain control
Prevention Guidance
Dandruff cannot always be completely prevented, but regular scalp care can help control recurrent flaking. Washing the hair regularly and using an appropriate anti-dandruff shampoo can reduce scaling and oil buildup. Depending on the individual, products containing ingredients such as ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, zinc pyrithione, or salicylic acid may be useful. Avoiding products that irritate the scalp and following product directions can help maintain control.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Fresh Fruits
Support scalp health
Vegetables
Provide vitamins
Omega-3 Foods
May reduce inflammation
Foods to Avoid
Sugary Foods
May worsen inflammation
Processed Foods
Limit intake
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
Dandruff causes flaking of the scalp.
Oiliness, fungal growth, and skin irritation contribute.
No, dandruff is not contagious.
Yes, stress may worsen symptoms.
Regular scalp care and medicated shampoos help.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.