What are the symptoms of dandruff?

Flakes can collect in the hair, on the shoulders, or along the hairline. Some people have a dry-feeling scalp with fine powdery scale; others notice an oily scalp with larger flakes that cling to the hair. Itching can be occasional or persistent. Mild redness may occur, but marked inflammation, thick plaques, weeping, or sores suggest that another scalp condition, such as seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, or infection, may need consideration.

Wash the scalp regularly with a gentle routine and avoid scratching, which can break the skin. A medicated shampoo treatment may help loosen scale and reduce the factors that maintain flaking; follow its label or clinician’s directions and allow the product enough contact time. A clinician may suggest topical antifungal treatment when the pattern points to yeast-related inflammation. Stop a product that causes a strong reaction.

Book an assessment if flaking is severe, painful, spreading beyond the scalp, associated with hair loss, or accompanied by thick plaques, bleeding, pus, or swollen glands. Seek prompt help for facial swelling, breathing difficulty, or a rapidly developing reaction after a hair product. Persistent symptoms despite suitable shampoo also merit review.

Ask whether the scale fits dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis, how often to use a medicated shampoo, and whether your hair or scalp products could be contributing. Mention redness, soreness, hair loss, and any new product or medicine.