Dandruff
Flaking of the skin on the scalp, often with itching. It is very common and usually mild, caused by a dry scalp or a yeast that naturally lives on the skin, and it is not contagious.
⚠ Seek medical attention if:
A very red, swollen, weeping, or painful scalp, hair loss along with the flaking, or flaking that spreads to the face and does not improve with anti-dandruff shampoo. See a GP or pharmacist if this occurs.
Lifestyle factors
Infrequent or excessive hair washing, dry skin, cold dry weather, stress, and reactions to some hair products
Nutritional factors
Possible links with low zinc, B vitamins, or omega-3 intake, though diet is usually a minor factor; overall skin health can play a part
Possible medical causes
Seborrhoeic dermatitis, a common scalp yeast (Malassezia), dry skin, psoriasis, and some other skin conditions
Next steps
A pharmacist can advise on anti-dandruff shampoos. See a GP if dandruff is severe, does not improve with treatment, or comes with a red, sore scalp or hair loss.
Related nutrients (3)
Biotin supports skin and hair health, though dandruff is mainly managed with shampoos
Food sources: Eggs (whole, boiled) (~20 mcg per 2 eggs)
Zinc supports scalp and skin health; it is included in some anti-dandruff products
Food sources: Pumpkin seeds (~2.2 mg zinc per 30g serving), Eggs (whole, boiled) (~1.1 mg zinc per 2 eggs), Brazil nuts (~1.2 mg zinc per 30g), Pecans (~1.3 mg per 30g), Pine nuts (~1.8 mg per 30g), Sesame seeds (~2.2 mg per 30g), Red beans (adzuki) (~4 mg per cup cooked), Garbanzo beans (chickpeas) (~2.5 mg per cup cooked), Miso (~0.5 mg per tbsp)
Omega-3 fats support skin health and may help a dry, flaky scalp
Food sources: Salmon (grilled) (~2000 mg omega-3 per 140g fillet), Flax seeds (~6.5 g plant omega-3 (ALA) per 30g (one of the richest sources)), Chia seeds (~5 g plant omega-3 (ALA) per 30g (one of the richest sources)), Walnuts (~2.5 g plant omega-3 (ALA) per 30g (highest of the common nuts))
Supplement categories (2)
May support skin health; a supportive measure rather than a primary treatment
Cautions: Caution at doses >3 g EPA+DHA/day if on anticoagulants; stop 2 weeks before surgery
May support scalp health where zinc is low; anti-dandruff shampoo is the mainstay
Cautions: Avoid long-term doses above 40 mg/day without medical supervision; monitor copper status with prolonged use
Related symptoms
Educational information only — not medical advice. This content does not diagnose, treat, or replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Always seek professional medical advice for symptoms, supplement use, or health concerns.