Dandruff: where does it come from and what helps?
HLN, 24 April 2022
Dr Griet Voet on dandruff in HLN: how it develops, which shampoos help and when it is better to see a dermatologist.
In HLN, Dr Griet Voet explains what dandruff is: a flaking scalp that is regarded as a form of seborrhoeic dermatitis. Oilier skin, yeasts that naturally live on the scalp and personal sensitivity all play a role together. It is common, slightly more so in men than in women, and stress, fatigue and cold, dry winter weather can make symptoms worse.
According to the dermatologist, dandruff is not contagious and can usually be kept well under control with an anti-dandruff shampoo from the pharmacy. For mild symptoms, a gentle shampoo, rinsed out well, is often enough. Washing too little gives dandruff more of a chance, while harsh shampoos can dry out the scalp.
If none of this helps, or if itching and redness persist, a visit to the dermatologist makes sense. The dermatologist can also check that no other skin condition lies behind the flakes.
Key advice
Use an anti-dandruff shampoo from the pharmacy if ordinary shampoo is not enough.
Wash your hair at least once a week and always rinse shampoo out thoroughly.
Be careful with daily use of harsh shampoos: they can irritate the scalp.
If itching or inflammation persists, have a dermatologist take a look.
“Certainly do not wash your hair less than once a week.” — Dr Griet Voet
Want to know more? Read about Hair and scalp disorders at Clinique Dermatologie Gent.