Dandruff — treated at the root, not just the surface
A persistent scalp condition driven by fungal overgrowth and sebum imbalance, diagnosed and treated with dermatologist-led protocols at DermaVue's 7 clinics across Kerala & Tamil Nadu.
7 clinics · Kerala & Tamil Nadu · ₹300 consultation
Understanding Dandruff
Dandruff is a common scalp condition where skin cells shed faster than normal, producing visible white or yellowish flakes. It is not caused by poor hygiene — the primary drivers are a yeast called Malassezia, excess sebum, and individual scalp sensitivity. Kerala's warm, humid climate can worsen dandruff by promoting fungal growth and increasing scalp oiliness. DermaVue dermatologists identify the underlying cause — whether fungal, seborrheic, or related to scalp psoriasis — and prescribe targeted antifungal, keratolytic, and anti-inflammatory protocols matched to your scalp type.
Dandruff (ICD-10: L21.0) represents a mild, non-inflammatory form of seborrheic dermatitis confined to the scalp. The condition is driven by Malassezia species — lipophilic yeasts that hydrolyse scalp triglycerides into oleic acid and other unsaturated fatty acids, triggering a Th2-predominant inflammatory response and compensatory epidermal hyperproliferation in susceptible individuals.[1] Corneocyte cohesion is disrupted, leading to visible desquamation. Severity correlates with sebaceous gland density, Malassezia load, and individual barrier function. Indian Fitzpatrick IV–VI skin types may exhibit secondary post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation at the hairline and temples, requiring adjunctive depigmenting approaches.
What does Dandruff look like?
Symptoms range widely in severity. Identifying which type you have determines the right treatment.
White Flakes on Scalp
Scalp Itching
Greasy Yellowish Scales
Scalp Redness
Hairline & Forehead Spread
Post-Inflammatory Darkening
Scalp Tightness & Dryness
Temporary Hair Thinning
What actually causes Dandruff?
Multiple factors act together — understanding them helps prevent recurrence after treatment.
Malassezia Yeast Overgrowth
Excess Sebum Production
Impaired Scalp Barrier Function
Kerala Humidity & Heat
Genetic & Immune Susceptibility
Stress & Hormonal Fluctuations
Harsh Hair Products & Overwashing
- 50% of adults worldwide experience dandruff at some point, with peak prevalence between ages 15 and 50
- Men are more commonly affected — sebaceous gland activity is androgen-driven, and male scalps produce more sebum
- Kerala's climate increases dandruff persistence — high humidity (75–90%) promotes year-round Malassezia colonisation compared to drier Indian states
- Immunocompromised individuals — including those with HIV, Parkinson's disease, or on immunosuppressive therapy — have significantly higher rates
- Fitzpatrick IV–VI skin types are at higher risk of visible post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation at the hairline from chronic scratching
What happens at your DermaVue consultation?
A structured clinical assessment — not a quick glance and a prescription pad. Here's exactly what to expect.
Clinical Scalp Examination
Dermoscopy & Trichoscopy
Fungal & Microbial Assessment
Trigger & Lifestyle Evaluation
Personalised Treatment Protocol
Dandruff treatments we offer
All procedures by board-certified MD DVL dermatologists. US-FDA approved equipment. No technician-only protocols — ever.
Medicated Antifungal Shampoos
Topical Antifungal Therapy
Scalp Chemical Peel
Calcineurin Inhibitors
Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
PRP Scalp Therapy
Prescription Oral Antifungals
Your Dandruff treatment timeline
Results are gradual, progressive, and lasting with the right protocol.
Watch: Dandruff treatment at DermaVue
Our dermatologists explain diagnosis, treatment options, and what to expect.
Dandruff Treatment — Can It Be Completely Cured?
Understanding Seborrheic Dermatitis
Frequently asked questions about Dandruff
No, dandruff is not contagious. It cannot be transmitted by sharing combs, towels, or pillows. Dandruff is caused by an overgrowth of Malassezia yeast — a fungus already present on everyone's scalp — combined with individual immune sensitivity and sebum levels. You cannot "catch" dandruff from another person.
Dandruff produces fine white or greasy yellowish flakes with mild redness, primarily on the scalp. Scalp psoriasis produces thicker, silvery-white plaques with well-defined borders that may extend beyond the hairline. Dermoscopy can reliably distinguish the two. Treatment differs significantly — a dermatologist assessment is essential for accurate diagnosis.
Kerala's year-round humidity (75–90%) and warmth create conditions for rapid Malassezia fungal proliferation on the scalp. Increased sweating mixes with sebum and traps fungal metabolites against the skin, intensifying inflammation and flaking. DermaVue dermatologists design treatment plans that account for this climate factor, including humidity-adapted maintenance schedules.
Dandruff itself does not directly cause permanent hair loss. However, chronic scalp inflammation from untreated dandruff can trigger telogen effluvium — a form of diffuse, temporary hair shedding. Persistent scratching can also damage hair follicles. With effective dandruff treatment, this type of hair shedding is typically reversible within 3–6 months.
DermaVue consultation fee is ₹300 at most branches. Medicated shampoo prescriptions typically cost ₹200–600 per bottle. Scalp chemical peel sessions range ₹1,500–3,000 per session. PRP therapy for associated hair thinning starts at ₹4,999 per session. Full treatment costs are discussed transparently at your first consultation — no hidden charges.
Dandruff is a chronic, relapsing condition — not a one-time infection. Malassezia yeast is a permanent resident of the scalp microbiome and cannot be permanently eliminated. Treatment controls overgrowth and inflammation, but without a maintenance regimen (weekly antifungal shampoo, scalp-care routine), recurrence is expected. DermaVue protocols include a long-term maintenance plan designed to minimise relapse frequency and severity.
Stop managing Dandruff.
Start clearing it.
Board-certified MD DVL dermatologists across 7 clinics in Kerala & Tamil Nadu. WhatsApp for instant appointment. Consultation ₹300.
₹300 consultation · No hidden charges · 7 locations