Most people are familiar with dandruff, a common scalp condition that affects half the world's population. But what about extreme or severe dandruff that grows beyond minor irritation into intense itching and flaking?
What Causes Extreme Dandruff?
Severe flaking can be caused by a number of factors, from a dry scalp to infrequent hair washing. While flaking is a frequent symptom of dandruff, when extreme, dandruff can be characterized by persistent flaking and irritation.
Extreme Dandruff: Treatments & Remedies
Common dandruff, even in its extreme forms, can often be treated with an over-the-counter (OTC) medicated dandruff shampoo. Head & Shoulders offers a line of clinical strength products such as Clinical Strength Dandruff Defense + Advanced Oil Control Shampoo, made with 1% selenium sulfide for prescription-strength dandruff relief and flake protection.*
If you suspect your extreme flakes may be caused by recent changes such as a new hair product, your hair washing routine, or even environmental changes, you can begin to see a reduction in flakes by trying a few simple things.
Extreme Dandruff Caused by Dryness
Avoid washing and rinsing your hair with overly hot water, as this can cause unnecessary dryness. Instead, use lukewarm water and add a moisturizing anti-dandruff shampoo, conditioner, or treatment to the mix. Try Head & Shoulders Clinical Moisturizing Scalp Cream after your wash routine, infused with manuka honey, to provide all-day hydration for an extremely dry scalp.
Extreme Dandruff Caused by Buildup
Styling products build up or can increase flaking and irritation. Try a clinical strength formula like Head & Shoulders Clinical Strength Dandruff Defense Intense Itch Relief Shampoo and soothe the itch.
Extreme Dandruff Caused by Skin Conditions: Severe flaking on your scalp can be caused by other skin health conditions.
- Seborrheic dermatitis is a more severe form of dandruff that most often occurs in people who also have oily skin or scalp. This form of dandruff is characterized by having large, yellowish flakes with a greasy texture. In addition to flakes, seborrheic dermatitis can also cause red, scaly patches and itching on the scalp and other oily areas of the body.
- Scalp eczema is a skin condition that results in dry, rough, or scaly skin forming on your scalp. You may notice inflammation, itching, and, in extreme cases, crusting along with persistent flaking.
- Scalp psoriasis can be characterized by silvery-white scales or plaques forming on your scalp and beyond your hairline. Beneath the scales, your skin may appear reddened and irritated. You may also feel a burning or sore sensation where these scales appear.
Because identifying the specific cause of extreme dandruff can be challenging, a proper diagnosis by a dermatologist is always recommended.
* flake protection vs. prescription 2% ketoconazole dandruff shampoo
