Last Updated on August 18, 2025 by Derma Arts Team

Across all age groups, hair loss and reduction in volume are now rather widespread. Although stress is known to be a factor in thinning hair and greying, dandruff may also be an irritating source of these problems. Dandruff and Hair Loss. We all have extensive skincare routines. However, we often overlook the importance of scalp health in preventing problems like dandruff.

Losing up to 100 hair strands each day is normal, especially if your scalp is healthy. However, if you have flaky scalp problems and more hair loss than usual, it’s likely that you have dandruff. Although hair loss, which affects the hair follicles, and dandruff, which affects the scalp, are two very different conditions, there is a connection between them. In actuality, dandruff may promote hair loss.

Let’s talk about the relationship between This as well as how to cure and avoid it.

Understanding the Link Between Dandruff and Hair Fall

A skin problem called dandruff causes white or yellow flakes to appear on the head and fall off on the shoulders. Dandruff is not the only main factor to blame for hair loss. Dandruff causes itching that affects the hair follicles, which might cause some hair to come out. It is typical to lose between 50 and 100 hair strands per day. You will require medical attention if your hair loss is excessive. In people with male pattern baldness and female pattern baldness, known as androgenetic alopecia, dandruff can make hair fall worse.

Many people notice more hair on their pillows or combs and immediately blame dandruff. But is dandruff really the culprit? While not a direct cause, dandruff can create an unhealthy scalp environment that contributes to hair shedding. Let’s explore how they’re connected—and what you can do about it.

What Causes Dandruff in the First Place?

Factors like a dry scalp, fungal infections (such as Malassezia), poor hygiene, sensitivity to hair products, or stress typically trigger dandruff. These issues can lead to itching and inflammation—two things your scalp doesn’t need if you’re trying to retain healthy hair. Severe dandruff-related redness and itching on the scalp: This can end up in scratching and harm to hair follicles, resulting in some hair loss.

Secondary dandruff caused by various skin problems: These conditions, which include biotin deficiency, psoriasis, and fungal infections, may trigger hair loss. Most of the time, this loss is short-term and curable.

Androgenetic alopecia, caused by excess androgens, can trigger over-oil production (seborrhoea), which may lead to seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff.

Resistance to hair wash: Some people who are experiencing hair loss may avoid washing their hair out of concern that they may lose more hair, which could cause more dandruff. Additionally, using certain hair loss medicines like minoxidil can result in dandruff.

When Scalp Issues Affect Hair Health

Persistent scratching from itchiness can weaken the roots, damaging hair follicles. Over time, this can lead to noticeable hair thinning or fall, especially in severe dandruff conditions like seborrheic dermatitis or scalp psoriasis.

Hydration and moisturization: One of the reasons for dandruff is a dry scalp. Salicylic acid, one of the ingredients in anti-dandruff shampoos, can dry up your scalp. Use coconut oil to massage your scalp to increase the flow of blood to the area. Coconut oil contains antifungal properties that help fight dandruff. Search for a conditioner that is suitable for your hair type to increase hydration to your scalp.

Avoid Using Harsh Hair Care Products: Your hair care products may contain sulphates, preservatives, perfumes, and colours that can irritate the scalp and result in contact dermatitis. Don’t use harsh products instead use soft hair care.

Stress Management: Although stress doesn’t directly cause dandruff, it does compromise your immune system and make your scalp more susceptible to fungus. Use yoga, meditation, or deep breathing techniques to reduce stress.

Use of Medicated Shampoos: If you have a mild case of dandruff, switch to medicated shampoos that contain ingredients such as Pyrithione Zinc, Salicylic Acid or Ketoconazole.

Always follow the directions on the shampoo bottle, as the effectiveness of some anti-dandruff shampoos depends on how long you leave them on the scalp.

Select Herbal Shampoos: Use herbal shampoos with anti-dandruff hair loss aspects if your scalp is intolerant to chemicals. Check for natural products with properties such as Neem, Aloe vera, Reetha, Bhringraj, Turmeric, Rosemary oil, Mint, Amla etc.

Types of Dandruff That May Contribute to Hair Fall

Once you eliminate dandruff, you can control hair fall. The lost hair will grow back. To see new strands, though, will require some perseverance over a few weeks. A proper hair care routine, a nutritious diet, natural remedies, and the right products for hair care can all help in promoting hair growth.

While mild flakes are usually harmless, certain forms of dandruff are more aggressive:

• Dry Skin-Related Dandruff: Common but less damaging
• Oily Scalp Dandruff: Can clog follicles, affecting hair growth
• Fungal Dandruff (Seborrheic Dermatitis): Often leads to inflammation and more severe hair issues
• Product Buildup Dandruff: Results from excessive use of hair products, restricting follicle health

Can Shampoo for Dandruff Lead to Hair Fall?

Anti-dandruff shampoos can cause more hair Fall since they contain chemicals like selenium sulfide. Anti-dandruff shampoos contain strong ingredients that eliminate the fungus on your scalp. When used for brief periods of time and in low doses, these compounds are safe. Long-term use of these shampoos may accelerate hair loss.

People often confuse dandruff with other scalp disorders. This can accelerate hair loss, although it is not the primary cause. Consult Dr Mitra Amiri, the Best Dermatologist in Delhi, at Derma Arts Clinic right away if your hair is thinning or your scalp is itchy. Most essential, despite all of your physical problems, love and care for yourself.