Most dandruff settles with regular washing and the right medicated anti-dandruff shampoo, used consistently for a few weeks. It isn’t caused by poor hygiene and you can’t catch it from someone else. If flakes keep coming back, or your scalp is red, sore or very itchy, a pharmacist or GP can help work out what’s going on.
This Q&A is part of our common illnesses A–Z, a quick guide to everyday health problems and when to get help.
What is dandruff?
Dandruff is flaking of the skin on your scalp. Your skin sheds dead cells all the time, but with dandruff, the Better Health Channel explains, cells stick together and shed in larger clumps, which show up as white or yellowish flakes in your hair and on your shoulders.
It’s very common. The Better Health Channel says it affects about half of all people, and healthdirect notes most people have it from time to time.
What are the symptoms of dandruff?
- white or yellow flakes in your hair, on your scalp or on your shoulders;
- an itchy scalp;
- sometimes, mild redness of the scalp.
Flakes tend to be more noticeable on dark clothing, and scratching an itchy scalp can leave small sores.
What causes dandruff?
There isn’t a single cause, but a few things play a part:
- Yeast on the scalp. healthdirect explains that a yeast that normally lives on the skin can make dandruff worse. Dandruff is considered a mild form of seborrhoeic dermatitis, where the skin reacts to this yeast.
- Oil. Dead skin cells clump together with the scalp’s natural oils, making flakes more visible.
- Other triggers. healthdirect lists stress, allergies, hormones, illness and seasonal changes as things that can make it worse.
Is it dandruff or something else?
Several other conditions can look similar. Seborrhoeic dermatitis causes a redder, itchier and more scaly scalp, and healthdirect notes it can also affect oily areas of the face and body. Psoriasis tends to cause well-defined patches of redness with thick scale. A dry, flaky scalp from over-washing or harsh products can also look like dandruff. If you’re not sure, ask your pharmacist to take a look.
Does washing your hair more often help or make it worse?
For most people, regular washing helps. healthdirect suggests shampooing regularly, even daily, and rinsing well. The Better Health Channel notes that infrequent shampooing can let scale build up.
That’s handy news on the Gold Coast, where heat, humidity, sweat and a daily swim at the beach or pool mean many of us are washing our hair often anyway. Just choose a gentle, non-medicated shampoo on the days you’re not using an anti-dandruff one.
Which dandruff treatment should I try first?
Pharmacies stock a range of medicated anti-dandruff shampoos. They contain different active ingredients that work in different ways, such as by targeting the yeast, slowing down skin shedding or loosening scale. We can’t recommend one here, as the best choice depends on your scalp, your hair type and anything you’ve tried before, so ask your pharmacist which suits you.
A few tips that make them work better:
- Follow the directions on the label. Some medicated shampoos need to be left on the scalp for a short time before rinsing.
- Massage it into the scalp, not just the hair. The scalp is where the flaking starts.
- Give it time. The Better Health Channel says it takes 5 to 10 washes for dandruff to clear.
- Try a different type if one doesn’t help. Because the active ingredients differ, switching can make a difference.
- Keep going. Dandruff often comes back, so many people keep using a medicated shampoo now and then to keep flakes under control.
Are there other things I can do at home?
- Brush your hair often. healthdirect suggests this can help loosen and remove flakes.
- Go easy on heat. Hair dryers, straighteners and curling wands can dry out your scalp.
- Avoid oily hair products and hair products that contain alcohol, which healthdirect suggests can make dandruff worse.
- Rinse well so no shampoo or conditioner residue is left on your scalp.
- Try not to scratch. Scratching can break the skin and lead to sores.
How can a pharmacist help with dandruff?
Our pharmacists can:
- look at your scalp and help tell dandruff apart from conditions that need different care;
- explain the different types of medicated shampoo and which suits your scalp and hair;
- suggest options suitable for children, colour-treated hair or sensitive skin;
- let you know when it’s time to see a GP. Some stronger scalp treatments need a doctor’s prescription.
If you have other questions about skin, scalp or hair care, our pharmacy FAQ page is a good place to start.
When should I see a GP about dandruff?
See your doctor if:
- your dandruff isn’t improving after several weeks of using a medicated shampoo as directed;
- the flakes are unusually large or thick, or your scalp is very red, swollen or sore;
- you have flaky or scaly skin on other parts of your body, such as your face, ears, chest or elbows;
- your scalp is weeping, crusted or looks infected;
- you have patches of hair loss;
- the itch is keeping you awake or affecting your daily life.
Your GP can check whether something like seborrhoeic dermatitis, psoriasis or a fungal infection is the cause, and may refer you to a dermatologist if needed.
Talk to our pharmacists at Pacific Fair
If flakes are getting you down, our pharmacists can help you find a dandruff routine that suits your scalp and hair. Pop in, with no appointment needed. Find us on the ground floor of Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Broadbeach, open 7 days (until 9pm Thursdays), or call (07) 5592 2099.
Written by the Priceline Pharmacy Pacific Fair team. Reviewed by Jason Markey (BPharmSci, MPharm), Pharmacist.
Sources
- healthdirect – Dandruff
- Better Health Channel – Dandruff and itching scalp
- healthdirect – Seborrhoeic dermatitis
This article is general information only and isn’t a substitute for personal advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. If symptoms persist or you’re worried, talk to your pharmacist or GP. In an emergency, call 000.