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Definition
By Mayo Clinic staffDandruff is a common chronic scalp condition marked by itching and flaking of the skin on your scalp. Although dandruff isn't contagious and is rarely serious, it can be embarrassing and sometimes difficult to treat.
The good news is that dandruff usually can be controlled. Mild cases of dandruff may need nothing more than daily shampooing with a gentle cleanser. More stubborn cases of dandruff often respond to medicated shampoos.
References
- Weston WL, et al. Overview of dermatitis. http://www.uptodate.com. Accessed Sept. 7, 2010.
- Dandruff. American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. http://www.aocd.org/skin/dermatologic_diseases/dandruff.html. Accessed Sept. 28, 2010.
- Seborrheic dermatitis. American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. http://www.aocd.org/skin/dermatologic_diseases/seborrheic_dermati.html. Accessed Sept. 28, 2010.
- Berger TG. Dermatologic Disorders. In: McPhee SJ, et al. Current Medical Diagnosis & Treatment. Los Altos, Calif.: Lange Medical Publications; 2011. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aID=747. Accessed Sept. 28, 2010.
- Seborrheic dermatitis. American Academy of Dermatology. http://www.aad.org/public/publications/pamphlets/common_seb_dermatitis.html. Accessed Sept. 28, 2010.
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