Dandruff: what it is, why it occurs, and how to control it

Dandruff consists of scalp flakes that shed faster than normal, almost always accompanied by itching. It is very common and has nothing to do with a lack of hygiene. It tends to come and go, and in most cases, it is kept at bay with an appropriate shampoo, thorough rinsing, and consistency.

What is dandruff and how do you recognize it?

The scalp renews its surface layer all the time, and normally dead cells shed one by one, without being visible. When that renewal accelerates, they shed in clumps stuck together by sebum and appear as flakes. There are two frequent presentations:

  • Dry dandruff: fine, white flakes that fall onto the shoulders; the scalp feels tight.
  • Oily dandruff: larger, yellowish flakes that remain stuck; the roots get oily quickly.

If the flaking also appears on the eyebrows or the sides of the nose, or comes with marked redness, it may be something more than dandruff, and that should be evaluated by a dermatologist.

Why does dandruff appear?

General causes

  • A scalp that produces more sebum, along with a yeast that lives naturally on the skin. In some people, what this yeast does with the sebum irritates and accelerates the renewal process.
  • Each person's sensitivity: some people get it, others don't.
  • Not rinsing out shampoo or styling products well, which accumulate and are mistaken for flakes.

Lifestyle and climate in Colombia

  • Dry cold. The American Academy of Dermatology describes that flaking flare-ups are more frequent in cold weather. There are no seasons in Colombia, but in cold climates, dry air and very hot showers can dry out the scalp.
  • Heat and sweat. In hot climates, sweating a lot and not washing your hair afterward increases oiliness and itching.
  • Stress, which the same source points out as a frequent trigger.
  • Hats and helmets all day, which concentrate heat and sweat.

Your anti-dandruff wash routine

  1. Anti-dandruff shampoo on wet hair. Massage the scalp with your fingertips, never with your nails, and respect the contact time indicated by the product before rinsing.
  2. Rinse very well, with lukewarm water, not hot.
  3. Conditioner only on the lengths, far from the root.
  4. Anti-dandruff lotion on the scalp, dry or damp, with a massage and without rinsing.
  5. Consistency: dandruff tends to return if you stop the routine. Adjust the frequency of washing to your hair: fine or straight hair usually needs more frequent washing than curly hair.

Products we recommend

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When to consult a dermatologist

Make an appointment if dandruff does not improve after several weeks of a consistent routine, if it is abundant, if the scalp is red, inflamed, crusted or wounded, or hurts, if the flaking also appears on the eyebrows, nose, ears, or chest, or if it comes with hair loss. There are skin conditions that resemble dandruff and need a medical diagnosis and, sometimes, a prescription.

Frequently asked questions

Is dandruff contagious?

No. It is not transmitted by sharing combs or pillows.

Does dandruff go away forever?

It tends to come and go. With a good routine, it is kept under control, but it can return if you stop, so consistency matters more than the product.

Does having dandruff mean I have a dry scalp?

Not always. There is dry dandruff and oily dandruff. If the flakes are large, yellowish, and stuck to the root, your scalp is likely oilier than it is dry.

Does dandruff cause hair loss?

Dandruff by itself usually does not cause hair loss, but scratching forcefully can damage the hair. If you notice hair loss, consult a dermatologist.

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