5 Sneaky Causes of Dandruff That Have Nothing to Do with Dry Skin

You’re sensitive to your hair’s natural fungus

Contrary to popular belief, dry skin isn’t one of the causes of dandruff. The real culprit: an overgrowth of a common yeast called pityrosporum orbiculare. The yeast feeds on skin oils, which may explain why people with oily scalps are more susceptible to dandruff. “Some people make oil that is particularly likely to harbor this organism, and they get dandruff at the drop of a hat,” explains Robert T. Brodell, MD, professor and chair of the department of dermatology at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. Normally, a mild case of dandruff will respond to self-treatment, so give home remedies (like these 11 natural dandruff treatments) or over-the-counter dandruff shampoos about two weeks to work. Check out these other 21 reasons your scalp might be itchy.