Dandruff is a condition in which flakes of dead skin are shed from the scalp. The flakes may be yellow and oily, or white and dry. The scalp normally sheds some dead skin cells. Dandruff results when it sheds thick layers of them. Physicians do not fully understand what causes the condition, and most people have it at some time. In most cases, mild dandruff can be controlled by washing the hair frequently. Dandruff does not cause baldness.
A condition called seborrheic dermatitis may produce severe dandruff and a red, itchy scalp. Dandruff shampoos help treat the problem. If the condition continues, a physician should be consulted.
