When we think of dandruff, we automatically think of dry, flaky skin. The reality is that there is only one culprit behind dandruff, and dry skin and flaking are often just symptoms.
Yeast-like fungus
It may sound serious, but a fungus called Malassezia globosa lives on everyone's scalp and skin, and half of the population is sensitive to it. It is this sensitivity to Malassezia, or rather, to the oleic acid it produces, that causes real dandruff. To get rid of this irritant, your body overproduces new skin cells. Eventually, dead skin cells start to build up and flake off the scalp. Itching, dryness, inflammation, and redness of the scalp are also symptoms of irritation caused by Malassezia.
Dry skin
Many things can dry out the scalp; some hair products, eating habits, environmental factors, and many more factors, which reinforces the connection between dandruff and dryness.
The good news is that dandruff caused by dryness can be treated by introducing more moisture to the skin. Try a shampoo or treatment that helps replenish your scalp's moisture. We recommend Head & Shoulders Aloe Vera Anti-Dandruff Shampoo to help hydrate and soothe dry, itchy scalps.
Oily skin
When the scalp produces excess oil, or sebum, the Malassezia globosa present on the scalp creates an imbalance that can cause oily dandruff, or seborrheic dermatitis. Oily dandruff is different from dry dandruff; it produces yellow-toned flakes that become sticky and adhere to the strands when mixed with excess sebum from the scalp. Oily dandruff is a germ magnet that can clog the scalp, so finding the right solution for an oily scalp is key. Our Deep Scalp Cleanse 2-in-1 Anti-Dandruff Shampoo and Conditioner removes buildup and controls oil without stripping your scalp of its natural oils.
Product sensitivity
While certain hair products may not be the cause of dandruff, they can contribute to its formation. Ingredients in a new shampoo, conditioner, or treatment can irritate the skin and cause itching, dryness, or flaking, especially if you have sensitive skin. Even if you don't have a reaction to certain products, using them regularly can create a buildup of residue, dirt, and oil that can irritate the scalp and worsen dandruff. To prevent buildup, look for a clarifying shampoo. We recommend Head & Shoulders Supreme Sulfate Free Clarify & Volumize Shampoo for a sulfate-free, paraben-free, dye-free, phosphate-free, phthalate-free, silicone-free, and sulfated surfactant-free cleanse.
Other factors, such as infrequent hair washing, which lead to excess scalp oil and product buildup, can directly affect existing dandruff. To relieve the itching associated with dandruff, look for anti-dandruff products that will not further irritate your scalp. We have a variety of options ranging from gentle treatments to clinical strength. Find the right one for you by shopping our products on the page.
