What should you know about Vichy dandruff?

Dandruff is a common scalp condition in which skin sheds as visible flakes. It can be white or yellowish and may occur with itch, oiliness or irritation. [Seborrheic Dermatitis](/conditions/seborrheic-dermatitis/) can cause a similar pattern, especially when redness or greasy scale affects the scalp, eyebrows, ears or sides of the nose.

Flaking can also follow a dry scalp, irritation from a hair product, psoriasis or another skin problem. A description of your symptoms and a scalp examination help separate these possibilities. Dandruff is not caused by poor personal hygiene, although infrequent washing may make scale more noticeable.

Use a gentle washing routine and avoid scratching, which can break the skin and increase irritation. A clinician or pharmacist may suggest [Medicated Shampoo Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/medicated-shampoo-therapy/) or [Topical Antifungal Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antifungal-therapy/) depending on the pattern. Follow the product directions, allow the shampoo to remain on the scalp for the stated contact time, and rinse thoroughly.

If a product stings, causes a rash or worsens itching, stop and seek advice. Hair oils, gels and fragranced products can make an irritated scalp harder to assess, so keeping the routine simple may help while symptoms settle. [Itchy Scalp](/symptoms/itchy-scalp/) and [Flaky Scalp](/symptoms/scalp-flaking/) provide more symptom-focused context.

Book a dermatology review when flaking persists despite appropriate use of a treatment, returns quickly, or is accompanied by marked redness, thick plaques, hair loss, sores or pus. Seek urgent care for facial swelling, widespread blistering, or breathing difficulty after a product.

Does my scalp look like dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis? Which active treatment fits my scalp? How should I use it and when should I stop? Could a hair product or another skin condition be contributing?