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A common and often itchy scalp condition in which small pieces of flaky skin fall off the head.
What is it?
Dandruff isn’t about your hair or how often you wash it. It’s about the skin cells on your scalp growing and dying off too fast. You may notice these flakes on your shoulders or hair and have an itchy scalp if you have darker hair.
Dandruff can develop for many reasons, but it is primarily caused by too much oil on your scalp and an overgrowth of yeast called Malassezia. This excess oil causes skin cells to build up and shed, resulting in the white flakes you might notice. Stress and illness can also cause dandruff. It’s important to note that dandruff is not contagious or harmful.
How is it treated?
Often, regular washing with a medicated shampoo may rid your scalp of these dry, itchy flakes. We recommend getting a shampoo according to your hair type, i.e., curly, fine or coarse. When using a medicated shampoo, we also recommend protecting your scalp from the sun, as these shampoos can make your scalp more sensitive to UV rays.
Most people do not require medical attention for their dandruff. However, if your dandruff doesn’t go away after using a medicated shampoo or if you develop a severe case, our dermatologists in Berkley, Farmington Hills, West Bloomfield, Commerce, and Novi, Michigan can help prescribe a stronger shampoo or medication. We can also evaluate whether your dandruff is a sign of a medical condition, such as seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, a fungal infection on the scalp or eczema.