Dandruff is a mild form of seborrheic dermatitis. Seborrheic dermatitis is a skin condition that can cause redness, scaly or flaky patches, and itching. It typically affects areas of the skin that have many oil glands such as the scalp, face, upper chest, and back. Dandruff (seborrhea) is not contagious. Dandruff is believed to be due to an inflammatory reaction to a type of yeast (Malassezia globosa) that naturally lives on the skin and it cannot be transmitted from person-to-person.
What Causes Dandruff (Seborrhea)?
The exact cause of dandruff (seborrhea) is believed to be due to an inflammatory reaction to a type of yeast (Malassezia globosa) that naturally lives on the skin. Most people have this microbe on their skin, and about half of all people are sensitive to it.
Risk factors for developing dandruff include:
- Skin irritation
- Dry skin
- Sensitivity to hair products
- Certain medications
- Stress
- Certain illnesses such as Parkinson’s disease and diseases that affect the immune system, such as HIV or AIDS
- Genetics
How Is Dandruff (Seborrhea) Diagnosed?
Dandruff (seborrhea) is usually diagnosed with a physical examination of the scalp. If the diagnosis is uncertain, a skin biopsy may be recommended to help confirm the diagnoses or to help rule out other conditions.
What Is the Treatment for Dandruff (Seborrhea)?
Treatment of dandruff (seborrhea) includes:
- Frequent shampooing or longer lathering
- Avoiding use of hair spray or hair pomades
- Dandruff hair care