What should you know about ordinary dandruff?

Dandruff develops when scalp skin sheds visibly. Oil, irritation, and sensitivity to a scalp yeast can contribute, so flakes may be white or yellowish and may collect on hair or clothing. A mildly itchy scalp can occur, but severe soreness, thick plaques, oozing, or hair loss needs a closer look. Dandruff can overlap with seborrheic dermatitis, which tends to cause more inflammation and greasy scale, especially around the scalp, ears, eyebrows, or nose.

Wash the scalp regularly and work a suitable anti-dandruff shampoo into the scalp rather than only the hair lengths. Follow the product directions, including any recommended contact time, and give the routine time to work. Avoid scratching, harsh scrubs, and fragranced products that sting. If one active ingredient does not help, a clinician can suggest another approach, including medicated shampoo therapy or topical antifungal treatment. Keep products away from the eyes and stop if marked burning or swelling develops.

Seek medical advice if flakes persist despite a consistent shampoo routine, or if the scalp becomes very itchy, painful, red, swollen, crusted, or wet. Ask for assessment sooner when there are sharply defined plaques, patchy hair loss, or symptoms on other body sites, because psoriasis, eczema, infection, or seborrheic dermatitis may need different care.

Could this be seborrheic dermatitis or another scalp condition? Which shampoo ingredient and schedule fit my scalp? How should I use it if my scalp is sensitive or I colour my hair?