Dealing with dandruff: what to know

Dandruff commonly causes loose white or grey flakes on the scalp and hair, sometimes with itch or mild irritation. Greasy scale, redness, or involvement of the eyebrows, ears, beard, or sides of the nose can fit seborrhoeic dermatitis. Flaking can also follow irritation, psoriasis, or another scalp condition, so persistent symptoms should not be labelled from appearance alone.

Record where the flakes occur, whether they are dry or oily, and whether a new product or hair treatment preceded them. This information can make treatment selection more precise.

Wash the scalp regularly with a gentle cleanser and rinse well. Avoid scratching and keep nails short to reduce skin injury. If a clinician or pharmacist recommends a medicated shampoo, follow its instructions about application and contact time; different active ingredients target different causes. A topical antifungal treatment may be considered when yeast-related inflammation is suspected. Stop and seek advice if severe irritation occurs.

Arrange a dermatology review if flaking persists despite consistent care, returns frequently, or affects the face and ears. Seek prompt attention for thick plaques, marked redness, pain, pus, bleeding, crusting, patchy hair loss, or fever. These findings may require a different diagnosis or treatment plan.

Does this look like dandruff or seborrhoeic dermatitis? Which shampoo ingredient fits my symptoms? How often should I use it, and for how long? Could another scalp condition explain the scale or hair changes?