Causes of Dandruff

The following are factors that may contribute to dandruff:

1) Not enough hair brushing

People who do not comb or brush their hair regularly have a slightly higher risk of having dandruff - this is because they are not aiding the shedding of skin that combing or brushing provides.

2) Yeast

 People who are sensitive to yeast have a slightly higher risk of having dandruff, so it is logical to assume that yeast may play a part.

3) Dry skin

People with dry skin tend to get dandruff more often. Winter cold air, combined with overheated rooms is a common cause of itchy, flaking skin. People with dandruff caused by dry skin tend to have small flakes of dandruff; the flakes are not oily.

4) Seborrheic dermatitis (irritated, oily skin)

People with seborrheic dermatitis are very prone to dandruff. Seborrheic dermatitis affects many areas of the skin, including the backs of the ears, the breastbone, eyebrows, and the sides of the nose, not just the scalp. The patient will have red, greasy skin covered with flaky white or yellow scales.

5) Not enough shampooing

It is said that if you don't shampoo enough there can be a buildup of oil and dead skin cells, causing dandruff.

6) Reaction to hair or skin care products

Some people react to some hair care products with a red, itchy, scaling scalp. Many experts say that shampooing too often may cause dandruff as it can irritate the scalp.

7) Mental stress

Experts believe there may be a link between stress and other skin problems.