Hair Transplant | Can Dandruff Cause Hair Loss?

Can Dandruff Cause Hair Loss?

Hello, can dandruff cause hair loss? I have been dealing with dandruff and scalp irritation for several years and I seem to be losing more and more hair. Please let me know what I should do.

Dandruff does not directly cause hair loss. However, dandruff can cause the scalp to become itchy and irritated. If your response to this itchiness is to excessively rub and scratch your scalp, this could be causing you to lose hair. Most dandruff is formed as a result of an increase in production of dead skin cells which clump together to form the whitish flakes. While still debatable, most researchers believe this increased cell turnover on the scalp is caused by a fungal colonization. Therefore, it stands to reason that a good shampoo with anti-fungal properties will help alleviate the problem. I usually recommend Nizoral, a shampoo containing ketoconazole. My advice to you is to visit a qualified hair loss specialist to help guide you further. While you may be indirectly losing hair due to your dandruff, there are many other causes which should be ruled out. In the meantime, try
using the Nizoral and hopefully your dandruff will help clear up.

Brandon Ross, MD
Member, International Alliance of Hair Restoration Surgeons

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