Dandruff & Scalp Care
Dandruff causes flaking and sometimes itching of the scalp. It's very common, harmless, and usually manageable with regular treatment
About dandruff & scalp care
Dandruff is linked to a yeast called Malassezia that lives naturally on the scalp; in some people it triggers faster skin cell turnover and irritation, causing visible white or yellowish flakes. It tends to fluctuate with seasons, stress and hair product use, and is closely related to seborrhoeic dermatitis, a more inflamed form affecting the scalp and sometimes the face
Treatments
Symptoms
• White or yellowish flakes in the hair and on the shoulders
• Itchy scalp
• Dry or oily-looking scalp patches
• Mild redness in more inflamed cases
• Flares that come and go over time
Diagnosis
Dandruff is usually diagnosed by examining the scalp and hair. If the scalp is very red, scaly or sore, or flaking extends to the face and eyebrows, it may indicate seborrhoeic dermatitis or another skin condition needing separate treatment
Treatment
Medicated shampoos containing zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, ketoconazole or coal tar reduce yeast and flaking with regular use, usually twice weekly. Stubborn or inflamed cases may need a short course of a stronger antifungal or mild steroid scalp treatment
Prevention and self-care
• Wash hair regularly, adjusting frequency to your scalp type
• Continue medicated shampoo periodically even after symptoms improve
• Avoid scratching the scalp
• Manage stress, as it can trigger flares
• Limit heavy styling products that build up on the scalp
• Rinse shampoo and conditioner thoroughly
Reviewed by Hamza Iqbal Naheed, Superintendent Pharmacist, GPhC 2209194 (check the register) · Last updated 21 September 2026