Not glamorous, but common: how to manage dandruff at home and when to get help
Experts don’t know exactly what causes dandruff, but if you’re seeing light flakes on your scalp, over-the-counter products can help
TL;DR
- Dandruff is the mildest form of seborrheic dermatitis, a skin inflammation affecting the scalp, face, or trunk.
- Likely causes include Malassezia yeast overgrowth, scalp microorganisms, and the skin's immune response.
- Genetics, hormones, hot/humid weather, and intense workouts may contribute to dandruff.
- Over-the-counter shampoos with zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, or ketoconazole are effective treatments.
- Apply medicated shampoo to the scalp, leave it on for a few minutes, and use three times a week.
- For dry or textured hair, opt for gentler, sulfate-free zinc pyrithione formulations.
- Avoid fragrances, as they can cause scalp contact allergies.
- Once symptoms clear, reduce dandruff shampoo use to once a week; switch active ingredients if resistance develops.
- See a doctor if flaking resumes quickly after stopping shampoo, or if accompanied by redness, thick plaques, hair loss, or burning/stinging.
- Conditions like psoriasis or allergic reactions may mimic dandruff and require different treatments.
- Prescription options include ciclopirox shampoo, prescription-strength ketoconazole, and roflumilast foam.