Dandruff is a common problem that manifests as small white flakes on the scalp, sometimes forming crusts. When these flakes accumulate, they can fall out and appear as white particles on the shoulders. This raises the question of whether dandruff can cause hair loss or lead to baldness.
Dr. Somya Sachdeva from the Dermatology Department at Max Medical Center in Gaziabad told Aajtak.in that in most cases, dandruff itself is not a direct cause of hair loss. However, scratching the scalp due to dandruff-induced itching can damage hair follicles, leading to some hair loss, but it does not cause complete baldness.
Furthermore, dandruff can exacerbate hair loss issues in people suffering from androgenetic alopecia, which affects both men and women.
To stop hair loss associated with dandruff, it is crucial to minimize itching. Reducing the urge to scratch the head will help protect the hair roots from further damage. It is also necessary to determine the true causes of dandruff.
Dr. Somya emphasized that dandruff can arise from various reasons, including hair washing habits or internal skin problems. If the cause of dandruff is unclear, one should consult a doctor or dermatologist. A specialist can examine the scalp to determine if it is related to insufficient or excessive hair washing, and check for symptoms of internal problems, such as scalp flaking due to dryness.
Some people may develop malassezia on their scalp—a fungus commonly found on the scalp. Although it usually does not cause irritation, it can sometimes provoke skin inflammation and contribute to cell death, leading to dandruff.
Dr. Somya advised trying special medicated shampoos if this has not been done yet. When choosing such products, attention should be paid to the presence of ingredients like zinc pyrithione, salicylic acid, ketoconazole, or selenium sulfide. If the dandruff problem is minor, it might only require using a medicated shampoo for a few weeks.
It is important to note that people with light hair are advised to avoid shampoos containing selenium sulfide.
Regardless of the root cause of dandruff, it is necessary to maintain scalp moisture using conditioner. This is especially relevant when regularly using medicated shampoos containing salicylic acid, as their constant use can cause hair dryness.
