Dandruff is noticeable first as small, white flakes that show up on the shoulders. Dry dandruff goes with dry hair and is associated with dry skin types. Dry, powdery flakes are usually present on hair and scalp. The hair will also be dry, and the scalp rather itchy. It can be a sign of poor health or a vitamin deficiency. Oily dandruff is associated with oily skin types and often accompanied by spots on face, neck and shoulders.

Dandruff can also be cause when the sebaceous glands have become hyperactive, causing excess oiliness, and the flakes in this condition are yellow, greasy and soft to touch. The scalp would be red and sore. It could be an over-rich diet or one too high in animal fats. Stress is also a prime cause of this type of dandruff. Start using anti-dandruff shampoo, even with daily washing. If existing antidandruff shampoo does not work after a while, it's not the fault of the shampoo. It may be because the scalp has build up a resistance to that particular brand of shampoo. shampoo.