The Truth About Dandruff and Hair Loss—Can Flakes Lead to Fallout?

Have you ever brushed your hair and noticed tiny white flakes falling onto your shoulders? You’re not alone. Dandruff is super common—but does it actually cause hair loss? Or is that just a myth?

Let’s break it down and get to the truth about dandruff, flakes, and what’s really happening to your hair.

What Is Dandruff, Really?

Dandruff is when your scalp gets dry or oily and starts shedding dead skin. These flakes can be:

• Dry and small (like tiny snowflakes)

• Greasy and big (more noticeable and stick to your scalp)

Some people also feel itching, redness, or even burning.

But don’t worry—dandruff is not dangerous. It’s super common and can happen to anyone.

Can Dandruff Cause Hair Loss?

Here’s the truth: Dandruff by itself doesn’t make your hair fall out. But it can lead to hair loss if it’s not treated properly.

Here’s how:

• Itchy scalp: Constant scratching can weaken your hair roots.

• Inflammation: If your scalp gets red and swollen, it can stop hair from growing.

• Blocked follicles: Flakes and oil can clog your hair follicles, making it harder for new hair to grow.

So while dandruff isn’t the main cause of hair loss, it can contribute to it if left untreated.

What Causes Dandruff?

There are a few different reasons you might have dandruff. Some include:

• Dry skin – especially in colder weather

• Oily scalp – too much oil can trap dead skin

• Fungus (Malassezia) – a natural yeast on your scalp that sometimes grows out of control

• Harsh products – like shampoos with lots of chemicals or fragrances

• Skin conditions – like eczema or psoriasis

Everyone’s scalp is different, so what causes dandruff for one person might not affect another.

Signs It Might Be More Than Dandruff

Sometimes, what looks like dandruff could be a bigger issue. Watch out for:

• Large, thick flakes

• Red, scaly patches

• Oozing or crusty scalp

• Hair falling out in patches

If you notice any of these, it’s a good idea to talk to a trichologist (a scalp and hair expert). They can check your scalp and help you figure out what’s really going on.

How to Treat Dandruff (And Protect Your Hair!)

Here are some easy tips that can help you control dandruff and keep your hair healthy:

✅ Use a dandruff shampoo – Look for ingredients like zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole, or salicylic acid✅ Don’t scratch – It feels good for a second, but it can damage your scalp and hair✅ Keep your scalp clean – Wash your hair regularly, especially if you use products✅ Manage stress – Stress can make dandruff worse✅ Eat a healthy diet – Foods rich in zinc, omega-3s, and vitamins help your scalp stay happy

When to See a Trichologist

If your dandruff isn’t going away, or your hair is starting to thin or fall out, don’t wait. A trichologist can give you a full scalp check-up and recommend the right treatment plan for you.

At New Look Institute, we are experts on scalp health and hair restoration in San Jose, California. Our team specializes in helping people just like you find real solutions for dandruff, hair thinning, and hair loss. We offer custom scalp analysis and personalized treatment plans to help you feel confident and comfortable in your hair again.

Ready to take the first step? Contact us today to schedule your free consultation!