Dandruff is a scaly skin disorder of the scalp. It is an extremely common scalp condition (it affects up to 40% of the human population worldwide), though it is comparatively harmless, except for its role in hair loss and acne (pimples). Research shows that dandruff can alter the hair cycle, causing hair loss.

While the disorder is termed as dandruff in adolescents and adults, in babies, the condition is called cradle cap.

Dandruff is not a disease per se, as it is never life-threatening. However, the itchy, white, scaly flakes that it causes are not only annoying but also somewhat emotionally distressing.

Dandruff can have damaging effects on one’s emotions, personal attractiveness, self-confidence and, by extension, social life. Largely, people with a dandruff problem are found less attractive by the opposite sex.

A seborrhoeic dermatitis is a severe form of dandruff. It is an inflammatory skin disorder affecting the scalp, face and some parts of the body. Typically, it causes a scaly, flaky and itchy scalp. Listed below are some of the symptoms for seborrhoeic dermatitis:

• Greasy, scaly and white (or yellow) flakes that fall from the scalp;
•  Itching and redness of the scalp; 
•  Dusty, white flakes fallen from the head to the shirt, etc.