Dandruff & Seborrheic Dermatitis
Also known as: Pityriasis capitis, Seborrheic keratosis, Pityrosporun ovale
Dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis are common scalp conditions causing flaking, itching, and inflammation.
Signs & Symptoms
- White or yellow flaking
- Itchy scalp
- Redness
- Oily appearance
- Hair loss
Causes
- Malassezia furfur fungus
- Sebaceous gland dysfunction
- Immune response
- Stress
- Cold weatherconditions
Risk Factors
- Male gender
- Oily skin
- Stress
- Cold, dry climate
- Parkinson's disease
- HIV
When to See a Doctor
See a dermatologist if dandruff causes significant itching, doesn't respond to over-the-counter shampoos, or spreads beyond scalp.
Treatment Options
Treatment options vary by individual. Consult a dermatologist for a personalised plan.
- Antifungal shampoos
- Topical corticosteroids
- Ketoconazole
- Zinc pyrithione
- Tea tree oil
Understanding Dandruff and Seborrheic Dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic, mild to moderately inflammatory condition affecting oily areas including scalp. Dandruff is the manifestation with predominant flaking.
Causative Organism
Malassezia furfur: Lipophilic yeast that colonizes oily skin. Not contagious; most people carry it without symptoms.
Affected Areas
- Scalp (most common)
- Eyebrows and eyelids
- Nasolabial folds
- Ears
- Chest
- Skin folds
Pathophysiology
- Sebaceous gland dysfunction
- Lipid composition alterations
- Yeast proliferation
- Innate immune response triggering inflammation
Triggering/Worsening Factors
Environmental: Winter, dry heating, cold weather
Stress: Any stressful period can exacerbate
Hormones: More common in males (androgen-related)
Associated Conditions: Parkinson’s disease, depression, HIV
Skin Conditions: Psoriasis or eczema may coexist
Clinical Presentation
Mild: Light flaking, minimal itching
Moderate: Visible scaling, itching, redness
Severe: Significant inflammation, crust formation, hair loss
Symptom Patterns
Symptoms often improve in summer and worsen in winter. Stress can trigger or exacerbate at any time.
”When to See a Doctor”
If dandruff causes significant discomfort, doesn’t respond to standard treatments, worsens despite care, or spreads beyond scalp.
Management Approach
Dr. Dr. Sanjay Agrawal provides accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment, including recommendations for maintenance products and lifestyle modifications.
Schedule your consultation for professional dandruff management.
Have this condition?
Call the clinic or visit Dr. Sanjay Agrawal directly for a proper diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.