Dandruff is the most common scalp problem you are likely to encounter in the pharmacy. In fact, it is estimated that around one in four people in the UK will suffer from it at some point in their lives.

The condition is more common in men than in women, and people in their 20s and 30s are most likely to be affected.

The condition is caused by a build-up of dead skin cells on the scalp. This can occur as a result of the following:

• Not brushing the hair regularly, so that dead skin cells are not encouraged to shed as normally as they should
• An overgrowth of a tiny fungal yeast called Malassezia
• Nutritional deficiencies, such as a lack of vitamin B or essential fatty acids
• A diet that is high in sugar and refined carbohydrates.

What are the symptoms?

When dead skin cells are allowed to build up on the scalp, they collect together to form white clumps that can be seen in the hair and often fall onto the shoulders. As well as looking unsightly, dandruff can be intensely itchy.

What are the treatment options?

Dandruff responds well to shampoos containing antifungal ingredients such as ciclopirox olamine and ketoconazole. Other active ingredients include selenium sulphide, zinc pyrithione and coal tar (note that coal tar can stain fabric and baths). Examples: Oilatum Scalp Treatment Shampoo, Selsun Dandruff Treatment, T-Gel Shampoo.

A medicated shampoo containing salicylic acid will help to remove the build up of dead skin cells from the scalp. Alternatively, a product containing ciclopirox olamine and salicylic acid will help to kill the fungal yeast and remove the build up of dead skin cells. Example: Oilatum Scalp Intensive Treatment Shampoo.

Customers may find they need to try a few different shampoos before finding the one that works best for them. Dandruff should improve within a few weeks of starting treatment, but is likely to come back when treatment is stopped.

Excessively blow-drying the hair at a high heat setting can dry out the scalp and lead to conspicuous dandruff formation. Suggest customers avoid this where possible.