What Causes Dandruff?

When the scalp becomes very oily, it creates the ideal environment for the Malassezia fungus to thrive. This can lead to increased sensitivity and flaking of the scalp.

But while both men and women can experience dandruff, the oiliness at the root of it can be caused by different factors.

Throughout their lives, women go through many different hormone fluctuations such as in puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. A side effect of this is the production of excess sebum in the scalp which makes women more prone to dandruff.

Men on the other hand tend to have more oily scalps than women. Studies show men also lose more protein from their scalps which increases their risk of dandruff.

A weakened skin barrier on the scalp can also be the cause of flakes on both men’s and women’s scalps.  Additionally, lifestyle factors such as your diet, stress levels, and how often you wash your hair can also leave your scalp more oily than normal.

But no matter the cause, understanding your own triggers can help you to treat and prevent dandruff in the future.

Dry dandruff is characterised by small, white, dry flakes of dead skin in the hair and on the scalp. Dry dandruff typically appears as fine, powdery flakes that are not accompanied by significant oiliness. They brush off easily onto the shoulders when the head is scratched or brushed. Dry dandruff can be caused by a variety of facts such as:

• Dry skin: people with naturally dry skin might be more prone to developing dry dandruff
• Infrequent shampooing: not washing the hair often enough can lead to a buildup of dead skin cells
• Sensitivity to hair care products: People might react to certain ingredients in hair care products

This type of dandruff can usually be treated with specialist shampoos which aim to relieve and moisturise dry or itchy scalps.

While oily dandruff is sticky and thicker and caused by excess sebum, dry dandruff is characterised by its flaky texture and fine, white (or grey) particles created by a lack of sebum and a dry scalp. These flakes brush off easily onto the shoulders when the head is scratched or brushed. The good news is that it can usually be targeted with specialist shampoos which aim to relieve and moisturise dry or itchy scalps.

Once you’ve identified the cause and type of your dandruff, you can start the search for the right treatment. The Vichy Dercos range has dedicated shampoos to help you improve the appearance of dandruff while controlling excess sebum on the scalp.

The Dercos Anti-Dandruff Shampoo For Normal to Oily, formulated with Selenium DS, salicylic acid, ceramides and menthol; helps to eliminate up to 100% of visible flakes* and provide 6 weeks anti-dandruff protection**. Dercos also has shampoos for dry hair types as well as sensitive scalp.

Now you know a little more about the causes and types of dandruff, you can start to take steps to feel more confident managing it. Don’t forget to look at all lifestyle factors including your stress levels, personal hygiene and any hormonal changes that could be causing your dandruff and be sure to add a dedicated anti-dandruff shampoos, like Vichy Decos, to your daily routine.

Discover Vichy’s full range of Dercos hair care or speak to your doctor or dermatologist for personalised advice.

*User test on 262 consumers
** Clinical study on 32 subjects after 4 weeks of use and 6 weeks of remanence