Dandruff is a common condition that leads to flaking skin on the scalp.
While it’s not contagious or serious, it can be embarrassing and hard to manage.
For mild dandruff, using a gentle daily shampoo can be effective.
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If that doesn’t help, trying a medicated shampoo may provide relief, though symptoms can return over time.
Dandruff is a mild form of seborrheic dermatitis.
Symptoms
Signs of dandruff may include:
– Flakes of skin on the scalp, hair, eyebrows, beard, or shoulders
– Itching on the scalp
– Scaly or crusty scalp in infants (known as cradle cap)
Symptoms may worsen with stress and often flare up during cold, dry seasons.
When to See a Doctor
Most individuals with dandruff don’t need to see a doctor.
However, if your condition doesn’t improve with regular dandruff shampoo, consider consulting your primary care physician or a dermatologist.
Causes
Dandruff can arise from various factors, including:
– Irritated, oily skin
– Dry skin
– A yeastlike fungus (malassezia) that thrives on the oils of most adults’ scalps
– Sensitivity to hair care products (contact dermatitis)
– Other skin conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema
Risk Factors
While anyone can develop dandruff, certain factors may increase your likelihood:
– **Age:** Dandruff typically starts in young adulthood and can persist into middle age, although it can affect older adults as well.
– **Gender:** Males are more likely to experience dandruff than females.
– **Health conditions:** Diseases affecting the nervous system, such as Parkinson’s, as well as HIV or other conditions that weaken the immune system, can elevate the risk of dandruff.