Does Dandruff Cause Baldness?

Dandruff itself typically does not cause baldness. Dandruff is a common condition characterized by the flaking of dead skin cells from the scalp. It is usually caused by various factors, including dry skin, a fungal infection (Malassezia), or sensitivity to hair care products. While dandruff can be bothersome and embarrassing, it doesn’t lead to permanent hair loss or baldness in most cases.

However, if left untreated or if a more severe scalp condition is misdiagnosed as dandruff, hair loss can occur indirectly. Conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, or folliculitis can cause both dandruff-like symptoms and hair loss when they affect the hair follicles or lead to excessive scratching and hair damage.

It’s essential to differentiate between typical dandruff and more serious scalp conditions. If you are experiencing hair loss along with dandruff-like symptoms, consult a dermatologist or a healthcare professional who can accurately diagnose the problem and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Proper management of dandruff and any underlying scalp conditions can help maintain a healthy scalp and hair. In most cases, addressing dandruff will not result in baldness.