How To Get Rid Of Dandruff And Dry Scalp

Dandruff

Dandruff is a common skin condition. It's not harmful and you cannot catch it.

The flakes are often more noticeable in darker hair and if they fall from your scalp on to your shoulders.

Your scalp may also feel dry and itchy.

Use an anti-dandruff shampoo. There are several different types you can buy from pharmacies or supermarkets.

Look for shampoo containing one of these ingredients:

Your pharmacist can tell you how to use the shampoo.

Use the shampoo for a month to see if your dandruff improves. You might need to try more than one type to find one that works for you.

Find a pharmacy

The GP can check your scalp for skin conditions that could be causing your dandruff.

Information:

It's still important to get help from a GP if you need it. To contact your GP surgery:

Find out about using the NHS during COVID-19

Dandruff is not caused by poor hygiene, although it may be more obvious if you do not wash your hair regularly.

Stress and cold weather may also make dandruff worse.

A list of conditions that cause dandruff and the main symptoms
Symptoms	Possible causes
scaly, itchy and red patches on skin on scalp, face and other areas of the body	seborrheic dermatitis
red or silver rash on scalp, sometimes with patchy hair loss	tinea capitis, known as ringworm
dry, red, flaky and very itchy skin on areas of the body	eczema
red, inflamed (irritated) skin; may also have blisters and cracked skin – reaction to products such as hair dye, sprays, gels or mousses	contact dermatitis
red, flaky, crusty and sore patches of skin covered with silvery scales	psoriasis
greasy, yellowish crusts on baby's scalp, eyebrows and nappy area	cradle cap