What is a common cause of dandruff?

Dandruff is a common scalp condition characterized by the shedding of dead skin cells. The primary cause of dandruff often stems from a dry scalp or specific skin conditions, such as seborrheic dermatitis. This condition involves inflammation of the skin and an overgrowth of yeast-like fungus, which can lead to irritation and flaking.

In contrast to other factors, excessive washing of the hair can sometimes strip the scalp of natural oils, potentially leading to dryness, but it is not a direct cause of dandruff. While overuse of styling products may cause buildup on the scalp and hair, it does not typically contribute to the flaking associated with dandruff. Lastly, lacking regular haircuts may lead to hairs that appear unkempt or are harder to manage, but it does not influence the health of the scalp or the occurrence of dandruff. Therefore, the correct understanding focuses on the role of dry scalp and skin conditions, particularly seborrheic dermatitis, in leading to dandruff.