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Excess oil, not dryness, causes dandruff: Here's how to control dandruff in winter

Apollo dermatologist Kaushik Lahiri explains that winter dandruff is caused by excess oil, offers tips to reduce flakes and prevent hair damage.

By NES Web Desk

Jan 14, 2026 00:16 IST

anti dandruff

Winter means white dandruff flakes falling from the head. Black clothes eventually turn white. Hair is not shampooed frequently in winter, which further increases the dandruff problem. But do you know what to do to get relief from this dandruff?

anti dandruff

On this matter, Apollo's consultant dermatologist, Kaushik Lahiri told Ei Samay Online that just as rotten leaves lie in the forest, dandruff accumulates on the head in the same way. According to him, this is a type of fungal infection.

anti dandruff

Actually, he explains that there are oil glands in the head. Oil secreted from these glands causes fine white particles to accumulate on the head. Many people have the misconception that dandruff occurs when the head becomes dry, but this is not the case. Rather, dandruff falls from the head when there is excess oil on the head.

anti dandruff

On this matter, Apollo's consultant dermatologist, Kaushik Lahiri explained in detail that often, due to going outside, dust and dirt also accumulate on the head. This dust and oil mix together and transform into dandruff.

anti dandruff

What is the main cause of dandruff?

Indians have a bad habit of applying oil to their hair. There are already oil glands in the head. Applying more oil on top of this increases the amount of oil on the head. Therefore, the less oil applied to the head, the easier it will be to get relief from problems like dandruff.

anti dandruff

What should you use instead of oil to keep hair smooth?

According to the doctor, there are oil glands at the root of every hair on the head, which help maintain the shine and softness of hair. Applying more oil on top of this becomes – 'adding oil to an oily head'. Therefore, according to the doctor's advice, it is better to use conditioner instead of oil on hair. But not in excessive amounts either.

anti dandruff

Physical problems due to dandruff?

Dandruff causes intense itching of the head. Excessive scratching of the head often causes a burning sensation in the head. Even the hair roots become loose and hair fall problems increase.

anti dandruff

Dandruff can cause the skin to become dry. When elderly people have excessive dandruff, boil problems can sometimes appear on the head. Even the glands near the neck can swell. In this condition, medical advice should be sought immediately.

anti dandruff

What should you do to reduce dandruff?

Regular shampooing is the only way to reduce dandruff. If dandruff does not reduce with shampoo for any reason, then medical advice should be taken. This problem can be solved through special lotions or anti-dandruff shampoos.

Does dandruff cause acne?

On this matter, Apollo's consultant dermatologist, Kaushik Lahiri says, "Dandruff does not cause acne. Rather, acne occurs due to excess oil secretion from oil glands in the skin. On the other hand, dandruff occurs when oil is secreted from the oil glands at the hair roots on the head. So there is one reason behind dandruff and acne, which is excessive oil secretion."

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