Dandruff Care

Dandruff is a common condition that affects the scalp and causes skin flakes, itching, and irritation. Most people notice white or yellowish flakes that shed onto hair and clothing, plus an itchy scalp that can feel tight or sensitive. These symptoms can come and go, and flare-ups are often tied to changes in weather, hair routines, stress, or product buildup. Dandruff is usually chronic and can vary in severity over time.

Even though dandruff isn’t dangerous or contagious, it can be distracting and impact confidence. The good news: consistent dandruff care can calm the scalp, reduce visible flakes, and help prevent future flare-ups. At 24hrdoc, you can complete an online health assessment, talk with a licensed provider during a virtual visit, and receive guidance or an online prescription if it’s appropriate. 

Patients must be 18 or older, and you can start an online consultation any time, day or night, at a low cost ($39.99). If medication is needed, we can send a prescription to your pharmacy, often within about 45 minutes.

Dandruff can develop for many reasons, from skin imbalances to lifestyle factors. Common causes include:

• Excess oil and irritation from seborrheic dermatitis: An oily scalp can develop greasy flakes and redness. The need for seborrheic dermatitis care is one of the most common reasons people seek dandruff treatment.
• Overgrowth of Malassezia: This yeast-like fungus naturally lives on skin, but in some people, it contributes to irritation and flaking. 
• Reaction to harsh shampoos or styling products: Sensitivity can lead to contact dermatitis, burning, and flaking—especially after dyes, sprays, gels, or fragranced products.
• Skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis: These can cause thick scale, redness, or itching that may be mistaken for dandruff.
• Stress and hormonal changes: Stress can worsen inflammation, influence oil production, and intensify symptoms.

It’s also important to note that dry scalp can cause flaking that is often mistaken for dandruff. Unlike dandruff related to seborrheic dermatitis, dry scalp is primarily driven by moisture loss (often from hot showers or cold weather) rather than inflammation or yeast activity. Dry scalp treatment generally involves gentle cleansing, avoiding hot water, and supporting scalp moisture, rather than antifungal products. Contact your medical provider if these dry scalp remedies do not provide relief.

Sometimes dandruff overlaps with other skin conditions or scalp problems. Your medical consultation should focus on the pattern of symptoms, the look of the affected area, and what you’ve already tried so a healthcare professional can recommend the right treatment options.

Not all flakes are the same. Pinpointing the correct type can make dandruff care and product selection much easier.

Oily scalp dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis)
When excess oil mixes with inflammation, flakes can look thicker and more “stuck,” and the scalp may appear red or irritated. This is classic seborrheic dermatitis. Many people benefit from seborrheic dermatitis treatment using a medicated shampoo with a targeted active ingredient. In some cases, your provider may recommend a short course of anti-inflammatory scalp therapy for scalp inflammation.

Fungal/yeast-related dandruff (Malassezia-related)
This type is linked to yeast overgrowth on the scalp rather than a deep or dangerous fungal infection. The goal is to reduce yeast levels and calm scalp inflammation, which is why an antifungal agent in shampoo form is often the first step—examples include ketoconazole shampoo. If symptoms are stubborn, your provider may discuss antifungal medication options or other prescription approaches based on your history and severity.

Product-related dandruff (irritant or allergic contact dermatitis)
This happens when the scalp reacts to styling products, hair dyes, fragrances, or heavy oils. The result can be burning, itching, and flaky scalp. The fix often starts with removing the trigger, rinsing thoroughly, and simplifying products. If inflammation is significant, a clinician may recommend short-term prescription support.

Prevention is mostly about consistency and trigger control. Regular dandruff care helps reduce the “boom and bust” cycle where flakes settle down and then surge back. Many people do best with a maintenance routine: use an anti-flake shampoo for a few weeks, then keep it in rotation once symptoms improve.

If you’ve had repeated flare-ups, pay attention to patterns. A sudden change in shampoo, heavy styling products that cling to the scalp, skipping washes for long stretches, or seasonal dryness can all tip the balance. People who deal with seborrheic dermatitis care often see fewer flare-ups when they keep oil and irritation under control rather than waiting until symptoms become severe.

For those looking for convenience, dandruff treatment online can help you build a realistic prevention routine based on your scalp type, hair texture, and product habits, without the hassle of scheduling a traditional appointment.

Common dandruff symptoms include:

• Itchy scalp or a crawling/tingling sensation
• Visible skin flakes on the hairline, shoulders, or brush
• White or yellowish flakes, sometimes greasy in appearance
• Mild redness or skin irritation in the affected area
• Scalp tightness (often linked to dry scalp)

Some scalp issues mimic dandruff—especially psoriasis, eczema, or contact dermatitis. If you have thick plaques, significant pain, oozing, or patchy hair loss, it’s time to talk to a medical provider so you’re treating the right condition.

The right dandruff treatment depends on what’s causing the flakes. Many cases improve with consistent use of an effective dandruff shampoo, but persistent symptoms may require prescription support and a clearer diagnosis.

Here are common treatment options a provider may recommend:

• Medicated shampoos with proven actives
  These include zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, salicylic acid, or ketoconazole shampoo. Your provider may suggest rotating products so you’re targeting multiple causes. For example, an antifungal shampoo may help when yeast is involved, while salicylic acid can help lift scale so other ingredients reach the scalp.
• Prescription anti-inflammatory scalp therapy
  If redness and itching are intense, a clinician may recommend topical corticosteroids for short-term itchy scalp treatment and to reduce inflammation. These are used carefully and for limited periods.
• Antifungal prescriptions for stubborn cases
  If symptoms suggest a strong yeast component or a persistent fungal infection, a provider may consider topical antifungal medication or other prescription approaches based on the case.
• Scalp-care adjustments
  Gentle cleansing, thorough rinsing, and reducing styling products can dramatically improve outcomes. Many people don’t need more products—they need fewer products used more consistently.
• Supportive lifestyle habits
  Stress management, hydration, and a balanced diet can help some people reduce flare frequency, especially when oil and inflammation are part of the picture.

If you’re looking for convenience, you can get dandruff treatment online through 24hrdoc. You can share photos and symptom details during an online consultation, then receive a clear treatment plan. If clinically appropriate, your provider can issue a dandruff prescription or recommend OTC care. 

Getting a dandruff shampoo prescription is easy through 24hrdoc. This can include ketoconazole or another appropriate prescription dandruff treatment. If you already have an established plan and need a prescription refill, your provider can guide next steps during your virtual visit.

Daily habits matter as much as the product you choose. These tips can help with managing dandruff and keeping flare-ups from returning:

• Wash your hair on a steady schedule that fits your scalp type. Many people with an oily scalp do better with regular cleansing, while dry scalps need gentler products.
• Use your anti-dandruff shampoo correctly. Work it into the scalp (not just the hair), let it sit briefly as directed, and rinse thoroughly so residue doesn’t build up.
• Avoid scratching or picking at flakes. Scratching can worsen irritation and prolong healing of the affected area.
• Rinse thoroughly to remove product buildup, especially from sprays, gels, dry shampoo, and heavy oils.
• Keep styling products off the scalp when possible. Apply them to mid-lengths and ends instead.
• If you suspect sensitivity, simplify your routine for two weeks: fragrance-free cleanser, fewer styling products, and no new dyes or treatments.
• Use home remedies carefully. Gentle options (like avoiding harsh soaps and reducing heat styling) can help, but harsh DIY acids or oils can backfire and worsen skin irritation.
• If flakes return quickly or the scalp becomes red and sore, check in with a 24hrdoc online dermatologist or medical provider. A quick medical consultation can help confirm the cause and refine your plan.