Ask a Redhead: Dealing with Dandruff

Every week, we put out a call for your redhead questions. This gives you a chance to get advice or input from our team of redheads. From beauty and fashion to lifestyle, redheads are in a unique boat, and we want to help make this community a place where you can turn for all your redhead needs.

This week, we’re addressing a question we received on Instagram: “Is bad dandruff a thing for redheads?” While dandruff is not directly associated with having red hair, it is a common issue for many redheads. One contributing factor is that individuals with red hair often have more sensitive skin, which can become dry. However, sensitive skin is not the sole cause of dandruff. Understanding the underlying reasons for scalp flaking is critical to effectively managing and preventing it.

What is causing dandruff?

There are a variety of reasons you might be experiencing dandruff, including:

Genetics: Dandruff can be genetic, so you might be too if your family members are prone to it.
Seasonal dryness: During the cold winter months, dandruff is highly prevalent, and our scalps get dry from the cold hair.
Scalp sensitivity: Since most redheads have sensitive skin, this is one of the most common causes of redhead dandruff. Sensitivity to the ingredients in your hair product might be causing a flakey scalp.
Under/overwashing: If you aren’t washing your hair frequently enough, or are washing it too much you may be impacting the natural oils in your scalp.
Scalp health: Skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, contact dermatitis, and an overgrowth of yeast can all cause an unhealthy scalp with flaking.
Stress: High stress levels can disrupt your body’s natural processes, leading to scalp irritation and flaking.
Diet: A diet lacking essential nutrients, such as zinc, B vitamins, and healthy fats, can contribute to scalp issues and dandruff.
Hormonal changes: Hormonal shifts, such as those during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, can affect the scalp’s oil production and cause flaking.
Improper hair care: Overly harsh shampoos, hot water, or styling tools can strip the scalp of its natural oils, leading to dryness and flaking.
Product build-up: Overusing styling products like gels, sprays, or dry shampoos can lead to a clogged and irritated scalp, worsening dandruff.
Environment: Pollution and exposure to irritants in the air can lead to an inflamed scalp and flaking.
Fungal infection: Malassezia, a yeast naturally occurring on the scalp, can sometimes grow excessively and contribute to dandruff.
Aging: As we age, the scalp’s ability to maintain moisture may decrease, resulting in dryness and flaking.

How to treat dandruff

Knowing why you have dandruff will help you to combat it quickly and effectively. For some people, simply using a dandruff shampoo will work. For others, you may need a more targeted approach. Seasonal dryness and skin sensitivity are the two most common reasons, so try starting there.

Add hydration to your hair and scalp to combat seasonal dryness. If hydrating products aren’t working, try cleansing the scalp with an apple cider vinegar rinse.
Skin sensitivity can be a little more complicated. If you’ve introduced one or more new products into your routine, try removing them one at a time to narrow it down. Once you figure it out, discontinue the use of that product.
Adjusting the number of times you wash your hair a week can also help improve signs of dandruff.
If you believe you have a skin condition or are struggling to control your dandruff, contact your dermatologist for a formal diagnosis. They may be able to pinpoint the problem and prescribe you a clinical-strength treatment.