Dandruff is one of the most common scalp concerns affecting men, women, and even teenagers. While it may seem like a simple dry, flaky scalp issue, dandruff can be complex—and not all dandruff is the same. The type of dandruff you have determines the proper treatment approach.
At Sano Clinics, dermatologists diagnose the exact cause of dandruff and offer targeted treatments to relieve itchiness, flakes, and scalp irritation effectively.
This comprehensive guide explains the different types of dandruff, why they occur, symptoms to watch out for, and the best medical treatments available today.
What Is Dandruff?
Dandruff is a scalp condition characterized by flaky, white or yellowish scales resulting from excess shedding of dead skin cells. It may be accompanied by:
- Itching
- Redness
- Greasiness
- Irritation
- Scalp dryness
Dandruff becomes a concern when the shedding is excessive or when it affects confidence and comfort.
Why Do We Get Dandruff? (Root Causes)
Dandruff can develop due to several reasons:
1. Overgrowth of Malassezia Yeast
This fungus naturally lives on the scalp but can multiply excessively, leading to inflammation, irritation, and flakes.
2. Oily Scalp (Sebum Overproduction)
Too much oil can lead to greasy flakes and make the scalp more prone to fungal growth.
3. Dry Scalp
Lack of moisture leads to small, white powdery flakes.
4. Sensitivity to Hair Products
Irritation from ingredients can cause redness and flaking (contact dermatitis).
5. Skin Conditions
Psoriasis, eczema, and seborrheic dermatitis are major contributors.
6. Climate & Pollution
Cold weather, dust, sweat buildup, and hard water worsen the condition.
7. Stress & Lifestyle
Stress weakens the immune system, allowing the dandruff-causing fungus to thrive.
Understanding the cause helps determine the proper treatment—because the same shampoo cannot treat all types of dandruff.
Different Types of Dandruff
Dandruff is not a single condition—there are multiple types, each requiring different care. Below are the most common types identified and treated at Sano Clinics.
1. Dry Scalp Dandruff
Characteristics
- White, small, powdery flakes
- Flakes fall effortlessly on the shoulders
- Itching worsens in winter
- The scalp feels tight or dehydrated
Causes
- Cold weather
- Harsh shampoos
- Hot water showers
- Dehydration
- Mild eczema
Best Treatments
- Hydrating scalp treatments
- Moisturizing serums and oils (dermatologist-approved)
- Switching to gentle, sulfate-free shampoos
- Avoiding excessive washing
Dry dandruff responds well to moisturizing therapies and lifestyle correction.
2. Oily Dandruff (Seborrheic Dermatitis)
Characteristics
- Yellowish, sticky flakes
- Greasy scalp
- Redness and inflammation
- Foul odour in severe cases
Causes
- Excessive sebum production
- Overgrowth of Malassezia yeast
- Stress
- Hormonal imbalance
Best Treatments
- Antifungal medicated shampoos
- Keratolytic agents (salicylic acid shampoos)
- Scalp detox treatments
- Prescription creams for persistent cases
This is the most common type and often needs consistent medical care.
3. Fungal Dandruff
Characteristics
- Thick flakes
- Severe itching
- Red, inflamed patches
- Possible pustules or soreness
Causes
- Active fungal infection
- Sweat accumulation
- Humid climate
Best Treatments
- Antifungal lotions
- Antifungal oral medications (in severe cases)
- Prescription shampoos with ketoconazole or zinc pyrithione
This type requires proper diagnosis to avoid worsening the infection.
4. Product Buildup Dandruff
Characteristics
- Flakes appear after using styling gels, sprays, or serums
- Scalp feels heavy or coated
- No major itching
Causes
- Residue from hair products
- Non-washable silicone-based formulas
- Improper rinsing
Best Treatments
- Clarifying scalp treatments
- Micellar water-based shampoos
- Scalp exfoliation and detox
Simple changes in hair care routine can completely resolve this type.
5. Psoriasis-Related Dandruff
Characteristics
- Thick, silvery-white scales
- Inflammatory patches on the scalp
- Flakes that feel layered or cracked
- Itching + burning sensation
Causes
- Autoimmune skin disorder
- Genetics
- Stress
Best Treatments
- Coal tar or salicylic acid shampoos
- Prescription topical steroids
- UV light therapy (in clinic)
- Scalp-soothing medicated lotions
Scalp psoriasis is often confused with seborrheic dermatitis—professional diagnosis is essential.
6. Eczema-Related Dandruff (Atopic Dermatitis)
Characteristics
- Red, irritated patches
- Dry, flaky skin
- Itching that worsens at night
Causes
- Allergies
- Sensitive skin
- Environmental triggers
Best Treatments
- Anti-inflammatory medicated shampoos
- Moisturizing scalp therapy
- Sensitive-skin formulations
7. Hormonal Dandruff
Characteristics
- Sudden increase in flakes
- Oily scalp during periods, pregnancy, adolescence
Causes
- Hormonal fluctuations
- Overactive sebaceous glands
Best Treatments
- Anti-dandruff shampoos
- Scalp balancing treatments
- Hormonal evaluation, if required
Common Symptoms of Dandruff
Regardless of type, dandruff may cause:
- Visible white or yellow flakes
- Itchy scalp
- Redness or irritation
- Greasy or dry patches
- Tight or inflamed scalp
- Hair fall (due to scratching or inflammation)
If dandruff lasts more than 2–3 weeks, a medical evaluation is recommended.
Dandruff Treatment Options at Sano Clinics
At Sano Clinics, dermatologists provide customized dandruff treatment plans tailored to your scalp type and severity.
1. Medicated Shampoos
We use dermatologist-approved formulas containing:
- Ketoconazole
- Zinc pyrithione
- Selenium sulfide
- Salicylic acid
- Coal tar
- Ciclopirox
These ingredients reduce fungal growth, oiliness, and flakes.
2. Antifungal Lotions & Topicals
For fungal and oily dandruff, dermatologist-prescribed lotions effectively control the infection and inflammation.
3. Scalp Exfoliation & Detox Therapy
A gentle in-clinic exfoliation removes:
- Product buildup
- Dead skin
- Oil deposits
This improves blood circulation and scalp health.
4. Hydrating Scalp Treatments
Ideal for dry dandruff, these treatments nourish the scalp with:
- Hyaluronic acid
- Ceramides
- Natural oils
- Soothing botanicals
Restoring moisture reduces flakes drastically.
5. Laser or Light Therapy
Used for psoriasis or severe seborrheic dermatitis, this therapy:
- Reduces inflammation
- Controls fungal overgrowth
- Slows cell turnover
6. Oral Medications (Severe Cases Only)
Dermatologists may prescribe antifungal tablets or anti-inflammatory medicines when topical treatments aren’t enough.
How Dandruff Is Diagnosed at Sano Clinics
Diagnosis includes:
- Scalp analysis
- Evaluation of symptoms
- Discussion of hair products
- Checking for underlying skin conditions
- Patch testing (if allergy suspected)
Correct diagnosis = faster results + long-term relief.
Dandruff Treatment Cost in India (Sano Clinics Estimate)
Service | Cost Range (â‚ą) |
Medicated Shampoos | ₹350 – ₹900 |
Scalp Detox Treatment | ₹1,000 – ₹2,500 |
Hydrating Scalp Therapy | ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 |
Anti-Fungal/Medical Treatment | ₹1,000 – ₹3,000 |
Laser/Light Therapy (per session) | ₹2,500 – ₹7,000 |
Costs vary based on dandruff type, severity, and treatment duration.
Home Care Tips to Manage Dandruff
1. Wash Your Hair Regularly
Controls oil and prevents fungal buildup.
2. Choose the Right Shampoo
Pick one with:
- Ketoconazole for fungal dandruff
- Salicylic acid for a flaky scalp
- Moisturizing formula for dry dandruff
3. Avoid Hot Water Showers
They increase dryness and irritation.
4. Oil Your Scalp Carefully
Too much oil can worsen fungal dandruff.
5. Avoid Harsh Hair Products
Stay away from firm gels, sprays, and alcohol-based serums.
6. Eat a Balanced Diet
Include:
- Zinc
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Vitamins B & E
7. Reduce Stress
Stress directly aggravates dandruff by triggering Malassezia growth.
When to See a Dermatologist
Consult a specialist if you have:
- Severe itching
- Thick crusty flakes
- Red or oozing patches
- Hair fall
- No improvement after 2 weeks of home treatment
Why Choose Sano Clinics?
- Expert dermatologists
- Root-cause diagnosis
- Customized treatment plans
- Safe for all scalp types
- Latest dermatology techniques
- Long-term dandruff control
Conclusion
Dandruff may look similar on the surface, but the underlying causes vary significantly. Understanding the type of dandruff you have is the key to successful treatment. With expert diagnosis and advanced dermatology treatments at Sano Clinics, you can achieve a healthier, flake-free, itch-free scalp quickly and safely.
Whether you’re dealing with dry flakes, oily dandruff, fungal infections, or psoriasis-related scaling, Sano Clinics provides targeted, long-lasting solutions for all scalp types.
