Rahul Kapoor Rahul Kapoor Asked 7 months ago

What is the main cause of dandruff?

Been having a lot of dandruff lately, especially during winters. My friends suggest different remedies, but I want to know what actually causes it. Is it just dry scalp or something else?

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7 answers

Divya Rao Divya Rao Joined Jun 2026 5 months ago
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From what my dermatologist at Apollo explained, the main cause of dandruff is often an overgrowth of a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia. This fungus feeds on oils on your scalp. Other things like dry skin, sensitive skin products, or not shampooing enough can also contribute. Best to ask a good doctor clearly, they will diagnose properly.

Ankur Gupta Ankur Gupta Joined Mar 2026 7 months ago

For me, dandruff flares up if I use certain shampoos or if I don't wash my hair regularly enough. Sometimes it's just my scalp getting too oily. It's more about trying different things to see what works for your hair type, than one big cause.

Meera Sharma Meera Sharma Joined Apr 2026 7 months ago

Is it just me, or does dandruff feel like it's caused by every little thing? I always hear it's about a fungus called Malassezia, but then dry scalp, oily scalp, even stress seems to cause it! Does anyone else feel like it's a constant battle?

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Consult a dermatologist

Rohan Bhatia Rohan Bhatia Joined Mar 2026 7 months ago

Don't fall for every internet remedy out there for dandruff. The main medical reason is typically an overgrowth of a yeast called Malassezia on the scalp. It's also linked to oily skin conditions. Best thing to do is see a dermatologist who can actually tell you what's going on and suggest proper treatment, not some DIY hack.

Priya Singh Priya Singh Joined Jan 2026 7 months ago

Haha, dandruff is like your scalp's way of shedding its problems, literally! 😂 But seriously, it's usually caused by a common yeast-like fungus called Malassezia that lives on everyone's scalp. Sometimes it just gets a bit too enthusiastic. Nothing to panic about, but definitely annoying!

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Kajal Devi Kajal Devi Joined Jul 2026 4 months ago

I'm new to all this. So, is it mainly because of a fungus, or can it be just dry skin also? I'm trying to understand so I can find the right shampoo.

Sowmya Prakash Sowmya Prakash Joined Jun 2026 5 months ago

My grandmother always said it's from not oiling your hair enough or using too much harsh soap. But doctors these days explain that the main culprit is often a fungus called Malassezia that irritates the scalp. Dry skin or too much oil can also play a role. It's good to listen to elders, but for treatment, trust a dermatologist.

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