Fungus

• While the exact causes of dandruff remain unknown, it may be caused by a fungus called pityrosporum ovale. There is always a certain amount of fungus on the scalp. Sometimes the fungus can begin to feed on the oils on the skin and multiply uncontrollably. This process causes more dead skin cells than normal to be pushed to the surface of the skin and then flake off.
  
  

Oily Skin

• Because fungal dandruff is caused by the fungus eating the oil on the skin, the more oily the skin the more likely a person is to suffer from dandruff. For this reason, males, and especially males going through puberty, are particularly susceptible to fungal dandruff as men tend to have oilier skin than women.
  
  

Treatments

• Anti-dandruff shampoos are readily available in most stores that carry shampoo. They are best for fighting mild attacks of dandruff and must contain either selenium sulphide or zinc pyrithione. Anti-fungal shampoos, such as Nizoral and Dandrazol, are available to combat scalp fungus that causes dandruff. Anti-fungal shampoo must contain ketoconazole.
  
  

Other Conditions

• The excess of oil that can cause dandruff can also cause other conditions, such as blepharitis, a condition that affects the eye. Because of this risk, it is a good idea to try to reduce oil levels on the skin. This can be done by washing the hair and skin at least once a day.
  
  

Considerations

• Always consult your doctor if you are going to use a medicated shampoo. You should also consult your doctor if you find that your dandruff stays the same or increases despite attempts at treatment. The scaling of the skin that causes dandruff also can appear elsewhere on the body.