What Is Dandruff?
Dandruff occurs when the scalp produces too much sebum, causing dead skin cells to clump together. Over time, this leads to the formation of visible flakes on the scalp and hair.
For people with oily scalps, yeast-like fungi from the Malassezia genus are often involved in triggering dandruff. These fungi feed on sebum and are usually harmless. However, factors such as psychological stress, hormonal changes, immune system imbalances, certain medications, or neuroendocrine disorders can cause these fungi to become more active. As a result, the scalp produces more sebum, its composition changes, and seborrheic dermatitis develops — a chronic inflammatory condition of the scalp. This condition often leads to dandruff accompanied by itching, redness, and sometimes crust formation.
Dandruff consists of small flakes of dead skin that detach from the scalp and become visible in the hair. While skin shedding is a natural process, it can become noticeable when the growth and shedding cycle of epidermal cells accelerates. In such cases, the skin’s renewal rate becomes disrupted, leading to excessive flaking.
Dandruff itself is not considered a disease but rather a symptom of seborrheic dermatitis. In some cases, thick dandruff can also develop due to extremely dry or oily scalp conditions, allergic reactions, or other skin disorders such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, or fungal infections like ringworm.
Dandruff is not contagious and does not occur because of poor hygiene. However, infrequent hair washing can worsen the condition.
Types of Dandruff
Dandruff can be categorized into three main types:
- Dry dandruff: The most common form, occurring on dry scalp. Large dry flakes often develop due to cold weather, low humidity, and frequent exposure to hot water.
- Oily dandruff: Caused by excessive sebum production. Sebum sticks dead skin cells together, forming greasy flakes that often trigger itching. This type is commonly associated with Malassezia fungi, which thrive on excess oil. The more sebum produced, the faster these fungi multiply.
- Combination dandruff: A mix of both dry and oily flakes appearing in different areas of the scalp.
Causes of Dandruff
In most cases, dandruff appears due to excessive sebum production. However, the exact cause remains not fully understood.
Sebaceous glands, located in hair follicles, produce a waxy, oily substance called sebum. Sebum moisturizes the scalp and hair, protects the epidermis from harmful microorganisms, and helps maintain a balanced pH level.
Other Common Causes of Dandruff:
- Dry scalp, especially in winter due to low humidity and heating systems.
- Immune system dysfunctions.
- Prolonged psychological stress.
- Hormonal imbalances during puberty or due to endocrine disorders.
- Poor diet and chronic digestive issues.
- Excessive sun exposure.
- Genetic predisposition to abnormal sebum regulation.
- Allergic reactions or sensitivity to hair products (shampoos, conditioners, dyes), leading to contact dermatitis or scalp irritation.
Dandruff in Teenagers
In children aged 10-16, dandruff often results from increased sebum production during puberty due to hormonal changes. In most cases, dandruff resolves as hormone levels stabilize.
Dandruff in Infants
Dandruff in newborns, also called cradle cap, is a sign of seborrheic dermatitis. During the first weeks of life, sebaceous glands are highly active, causing oily flakes on the scalp and sometimes the face. Usually, the condition resolves naturally, but if thick crusts develop with redness underneath, a dermatologist should be consulted.
Risk Factors for Dandruff
Anyone can develop dandruff, but certain habits and health conditions can increase the risk:
- Excessive sebum production
- Genetic predisposition
- Gender – men are more prone to dandruff due to hormonal factors
- Underlying conditions like Cushing’s disease, diabetes, or gut dysbiosis
- Seborrheic dermatitis
- Chronic lack of sleep (less than 7 hours per night)
- High stress levels
- Use of certain medications (e.g., antipsychotics)
- Frequent use of styling products like gels, mousses, or sprays
Complications of Dandruff-Related Scalp Conditions
In most cases, dandruff is harmless but can cause discomfort and self-consciousness. Stress-induced dandruff may worsen existing psychological tension.
In cases of weakened immunity, dandruff can lead to secondary bacterial infections such as pyoderma. Bacteria like streptococci and staphylococci can penetrate through micro-tears, causing pustules, abscesses, or folliculitis.
With seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff is often accompanied by red, flaky patches on the face, chest, or behind the ears.
Rarely, excess sebum and blocked sebaceous glands may lead to sebaceous cysts (atheromas).
Diagnosing Dandruff and Related Conditions
A dermatologist or trichologist usually performs the diagnosis and treatment.
Medical evaluation is recommended if dandruff persists longer than a month, worsens over time, or is accompanied by severe itching, redness, or crusting.
Diagnosis often involves a visual examination and medical history assessment. If needed, additional tests may be required, including blood tests and consultations with gastroenterologists, endocrinologists, or gynecologists.
Dandruff Treatment
The main goal of treatment is to normalize sebum production and control flaking. Medical shampoos containing active ingredients are typically used for 3 to 6 weeks.
Effective anti-dandruff shampoos often include one or more of the following ingredients:
- Selenium sulfide - targets dandruff-causing fungi
- Salicylic acid - reduces oil production and relieves itching
- Ketoconazol – bekämpft Pilze effektiv
Finding the right shampoo is not always easy, as some active ingredients can cause dryness or scalp irritation, while others may not deliver noticeable improvements. A few applications are usually not enough - visible results typically appear after 2 to 3 weeks of consistent use.
The anti-dandruff care line by DSD de Luxe offers innovative products designed to support a healthy and balanced scalp. The 2.1 Antidandruff Shampoo and the 2.4 Antidandruff Lotion contain proven active ingredients such as salicylic acid, piroctone olamine, and climbazole. These formulations help nourish the scalp, reduce visible dandruff, and leave a refreshing, clean sensation.
Thanks to their modern, skin-friendly formulations, DSD de Luxe is the perfect choice for anyone seeking effective yet gentle anti-dandruff care that promotes scalp health and long-lasting comfort.
In addition to using medical products, further measures should be taken to improve the condition of the scalp:
Rinse the shampoo thoroughly. Avoid using hot water or a hairdryer on the highest heat setting, as this can further irritate the scalp. Whenever possible, let your hair air-dry.
Brush your hair regularly to help distribute natural oils from the roots to the tips, depriving yeast fungi of their primary source of nutrients.
Avoid stress or try to reduce it, as dandruff tends to worsen during stressful periods.
Pay attention to your diet: reduce sugar, fatty, smoked, and spicy foods, and avoid alcohol.
Conclusion
Dandruff is a common condition that can often be managed with proper scalp care and suitable products. However, persistent or severe cases may require professional medical evaluation and treatment.