Managing Dandruff: A Guide to Causes, Treatments, and When to Seek Medical Help
Dandruff, affecting roughly half the global population, is a mild form of seborrheic dermatitis driven by a complex interplay of scalp microorganisms, immune responses, and skin barriers rather than a single cause. While over-the-counter shampoos containing zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, or ketoconazole are effective for most, specific hair types may require gentler formulations. Persistent symptoms, hair loss, or burning sensations indicate the need for professional evaluation, as these may signal conditions like psoriasis or scarring alopecia rather than simple dandruff.
