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What is dandruff?

Dandruff is a condition that results in excessive scaling of skin on the scalp. People with dandruff have twice the rate of scaling as those with a normal scalp. Dandruff affects more than 63 million Americans—about 12 million noticeably.

Although the specific cause of dandruff is unknown, a yeast called Pityrosporum ovale is believed to be the culprit. Signs of dandruff are an itchy scalp and flakes that appear all over the head rather than just in patches. There is no rash or redness. Dandruff typically becomes more noticeable in the winter months. It usually begins to show up around puberty, and is rarely seen in people older than age 75. While there’s no cure for dandruff, the condition usually can be managed easily by washing the hair and scalp daily with regular shampoo. If dandruff flakes persist, a medicated shampoo may be required. Both over-the-counter and prescription shampoos are available.

Dandruff shampoos work best when they are left on the scalp for at least one full minute before rinsing and repeating use.

Sources:
Handbook of Nonprescription Drugs. American Pharmaceutical Association, 2000.
Mayo Clinic Family Health Book. William Morrow & Co., 1996
Habif, Thomas. Clinical Dermatology. Mosby-Year Book Inc., 1996.
Diseases and Conditions, “Dandruff.” http://www.mayoclinic.com. Mayo Clinic Health. Last accessed 1/10/2007.
Medline Plus. Medline, 2007.

This answer prepared 10/27/2000.
This information updated 1/10/2007.