Contrary to the popular belief dandruff is not caused by excessive shampooing or dry skull. In fact, it is more common in people with oily skin and hair and those who do not shampoo their hair regularly. Dandruff symptoms get aggravated with dust, exposure to UV light or the harsh chemicals of hair dyes.

Overactive oil glands can cause mild dandruff while the excess of yeast like organism, Pitrosporum ovale, found on the skull can cause severe dandruff. Change in weather or emotional stress can also aggravate the dandruff.Other causes include family history, allergy and excessive sweating.Dandruff flares up in some people in a particular season.