Flakes vs. Facts: Common Dandruff Myths, Debunked

Dandruff gets talked about a lot. Everyone seems to have a different take – from social media to the salon – making it tricky to cut through the noise.

First things first: you’re not alone. Dandruff is far more common than you might think. And second – controlling dandruff doesn’t mean giving up on great hair. You don’t have to sacrifice your colour, your comfort, or your go-to routine.

We’re busting some of the biggest dandruff myths – and spotlighting the facts (and formulas) that actually help.

Firstly, what is dandruff?

Dandruff is your scalp shedding dead skin cells – something it’s constantly doing, just like the rest of your skin. But when those cells mix with the natural oils on your scalp and start to clump together, they become more visible. That’s when you’ll notice the flakes, and potentially some dryness or irritation too^[1].

Bottom line: Dandruff is a common skin function that sometimes just needs a little extra support. And just how common are we talking? Dandruff affects as many as one in two Australians^[2]. Which means if it’s not you, it’s probably one of your neighbours. The good news? Dandruff is manageable – and you don’t have to overhaul your whole routine to do it.

Wait, is that actually true?

So if dandruff is that common – why does it still feel so confusing? Over time, a few well-meaning tips and half-true headlines have turned into unwritten rules for managing flakes. But not all of them hold up. Let’s take a look at a few of the most common beliefs and see what the research (and dermatologists) actually say.

You can’t use dandruff products every day

You don’t quite know where the idea came from, but somewhere along the line, you picked up the belief that anti-dandruff shampoo and conditioner isn’t for daily use. But in reality, using dandruff products regularly is important to managing symptoms and keeping your scalp healthy.

And when the flakes stop? That’s not your sign to stop. 9 out of 10 dermatologists say it’s important to keep using your scalp care routine even after the symptoms settle^[3].

You can’t use dandruff products if you have coloured hair

Think dandruff care and colour-treated hair don’t mix? Think again. The truth is, most colour dyes are water-soluble – meaning water (yes, just your regular wash) is one of the biggest culprits behind colour fade.

Using a dandruff product formulated with silicone will help seal in moisture and protect against damage. That means you can treat flakes and keep your colour vibrant between salon visits.

Dandruff is a hygiene issue

Dandruff is caused by a natural yeast that lives on everyone’s scalp called Malassezia^[4], plus factors like skin sensitivity, oil production, and even stress – none of which have anything to do with hygiene.

You can be the most hygienic person in the room and still have dandruff. With the right anti-dandruff products, you can control dandruff effectively without overwashing or stressing about how clean your hair is.

Now that we’ve busted a few myths, let’s meet the power duo that actually works – with proven ingredients that help calm the appearance of flakes and support your scalp.

Gentle enough for every wash, this formula delivers up to 100% visible flake protection^[6], and helps prevent dandruff flakes from reoccurring.

Why we love it:

• Dermatologist-recommended.

• Up to 100% dandruff protection^[7].

• Colour-safe and gentle on sensitive scalps.

• pH balanced, with 0% added parabens, phosphates, and paraffins.

Formulated with a gentle, pH-balanced blend, it helps restore softness and balance to your strands after cleansing. Ideal for regular use and safe for sensitive scalps, it’s the kind of conditioner that does the job without the fluff.

Why we love it:

• Dermatologist-recommended formula.

• Softens and detangles without weighing hair down.

• pH balanced and free from added parabens, phosphates, and paraffins.

• Pairs perfectly with the Clean & Balanced Shampoo for maximum flake protection.

Scalp care starts with understanding

Between advice passed down like family recipes and that familiar twinge of self-consciousness in front of the mirror, dandruff can feel confusing – and isolating. But here’s the truth: it’s more common than you think, and with the right care, it’s totally manageable.

When you understand what’s really going on with your scalp, you can maintain it with confidence, consistency, and care.

Powered by decades of research, the Head & Shoulders shampoo and conditioner duo helps support a healthy scalp – leaving your hair feeling fresh, strong, and flake-free.Shop in-store or online now at Chemist Warehouse.

^1. Healthdirect. Dandruff.

^2. Better Health. Dandruff and Itching Scalp

^3. World Congress of Dermatology 2023

^4. J Investig Dermatol Symp Proc. 2007;12(2):15–9.

^5. Better Health. Dandruff and Itching Scalp

^6. P&G clinical Trial (CSD2018124) with Head & Shoulders 0.5%PO Shampoo

^7. 4-week treatment period after using Head & Shoulders shampoo regularly at least 3x a week.

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^{Sponsored content in partnership with Head and Shoulders Australia.}