Skin Dandruff: What to Know

Dandruff produces loose white or yellowish scale, with itch or an oily scalp in some people. Seborrheic dermatitis is a related inflammatory condition that can cause more persistent redness, greasy scale and involvement of the eyebrows, ears, sides of the nose or chest. Dry air, stress, illness and infrequent washing may make flaking more noticeable, but dandruff is not caused by poor personal hygiene and is not usually contagious.

Use a clinician-recommended anti-dandruff shampoo and leave it on the scalp for the instructed contact time before rinsing. Apply it to the scalp rather than only the hair, and follow the recommended schedule consistently. Avoid scratching, very hot water and heavy fragranced products. If scale is thick, itchy or extends beyond the scalp, a clinician may recommend [Topical Antifungal Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antifungal-therapy/) or [Medicated Shampoo Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/medicated-shampoo-therapy/).

Book a dermatology assessment when flaking does not settle with appropriate shampoo use, returns quickly, causes sores or hair loss, or affects the face and ears. Seek prompt care for pus, marked pain, spreading redness or fever. A sudden severe eruption may be another condition, such as psoriasis, eczema or a fungal infection, and needs examination.

Ask whether your pattern fits dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis, which shampoo ingredient suits your scalp, how often to use it, and what to do if the scalp burns or remains itchy. Ask whether facial or body areas need a separate treatment.