We offer products that we believe will benefit our readers. If you buy through our links, we may earn a small commission. Here’s how it works.
Dandruff is a common and often embarrassing scalp condition. If you’re noticing white flakes on your clothes, don’t worry! Here, you’ll find answers to common questions about dandruff, including its causes, effects, and management tips.
Dandruff appears as white flakes in your hair and can cause itching. These flakes can fall onto your clothes, causing stress and anxiety, even though it’s not a medical issue. The good news is that dandruff is manageable and doesn’t cause long-term harm.
Not shampooing regularly can lead to an oily scalp, resulting in dandruff flakes. However, dandruff isn’t necessarily linked to being unclean. Even with frequent washing, you might still experience flakes. It’s more noticeable if you wear dark clothes or have dark hair.
While dandruff itself doesn’t usually cause side effects, some dandruff shampoos might. Avoid shampoos with coal tar, as they can discolor hair, especially if it’s gray, white, or blonde. Coal tar can also make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so protect your scalp by limiting sun exposure or wearing a hat.
Dandruff isn’t contagious. It’s more of an annoyance than a sign of an outbreak. You can’t catch it from others, nor can you pass it on.
Dandruff doesn’t cause hair loss. You might experience both at the same time, but they’re not directly related. Severe seborrheic dermatitis, a more serious form of dandruff, can lead to hair loss and affects the scalp, face, and body, causing redness, flaking, and oily yellow patches.
Medicated dandruff shampoos are the go-to solution for an itchy, dry scalp. When using any shampoo, leave it on your scalp for at least five to ten minutes to let it work. Some people find relief with tea tree oil shampoos, but be cautious as it can cause allergic reactions or skin issues for some.
Mild dandruff doesn’t require a dermatologist visit. However, if dandruff persists despite treatment and lifestyle changes, it might be time to see a dermatologist. Conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or yeast infections can mimic dandruff but need different treatments.
If you’ve had dandruff before, it’s likely to return. There’s no cure, but regular use of anti-dandruff shampoos can help prevent it. Besides treating flakes when they appear, you can also take steps to prevent them from coming back.
