What Causes Dandruff and How to Effectively Treat It | As Seen in HuffPost

Dandruff affects millions of people and can be frustrating to manage, but it’s usually caused by a combination of factors like scalp yeast, oil imbalance, and environmental stressors. Understanding the root causes and choosing the right treatment can help restore a healthy, flake-free scalp. Dr. Alexandra Bowles dives deeper into this topic in HuffPost’s article.

What are some of the main causes of dandruff?

Dandruff is incredibly common, and it often stems from a combination of factors rather than one single cause. One of the biggest contributors is an overgrowth of Malassezia, a yeast that naturally lives on the scalp but can become irritating when it multiplies. This irritation leads to flaking, itching, and inflammation. Dry skin, especially in colder months, can also make dandruff worse, as can excess oil production, which creates an environment where yeast thrives. Some hair products may trigger sensitivity or buildup, leading to even more irritation. Stress and changes in hormones can also play a role, which is why dandruff can flare during busy or stressful periods. Overall, dandruff is rarely about “poor hygiene.” It’s usually about how your scalp responds to oils, yeast, and environmental factors.

Are there key ingredients that people should look for when trying to treat their dandruff?

Yes. Several ingredients do a wonderful job at calming dandruff and restoring balance to the scalp. Pyrithione zinc and selenium sulfide help reduce scalp yeast, which is often the root cause of flaking and itching. Ketoconazole is another powerful antifungal option, especially for more stubborn cases. If inflammation is a big issue, salicylic acid can gently exfoliate flakes while helping other active ingredients penetrate better. And for people with sensitive skin, formulas containing tea tree oil can offer natural antimicrobial and soothing benefits. The key is choosing a shampoo that directly addresses your type of dandruff and using it consistently to keep symptoms under control.

What are some dandruff shampoos that you recommend?

Nizoral A-D (1% ketoconazole): This is one of my top recommendations for more persistent dandruff because ketoconazole is a strong antifungal ingredient that helps control yeast on the scalp. You have to let it sit on the scalp for it to work!

Head & Shoulders Clinical Strength (selenium sulfide): A great option for moderate to severe flaking, and it also helps calm itching and redness while restoring moisture balance.

Neutrogena T/Sal (salicylic acid): Perfect for people with thicker scale or buildup because the salicylic acid breaks up flakes without being too harsh.

Selsun Blue (selenium sulfide): Another reliable choice that reduces inflammation and helps regulate oil production, which is especially helpful for oily or irritated scalps.

Is there anything else people should be doing to address their dandruff?

Consistency is key when treating dandruff. Most people see the best results when they use their medicated shampoo several times a week and allow it to sit on the scalp for five minutes before rinsing. Avoiding heavy styling products can also help, since buildup can worsen flaking and irritation. If your scalp feels dry, pairing your dandruff shampoo with a gentle, hydrating conditioner on the ends of your hair, not the scalp, can keep hair soft without disrupting treatment. Managing stress, getting adequate sleep, and maintaining a healthy diet can also support overall scalp health. And if your flaking doesn’t improve after a few weeks, or if you notice redness, pain, or hair shedding, it’s a good idea to see a dermatologist to rule out another condition. My biggest message is that dandruff is very treatable. You just need the right approach and a little patience.