This information is approved and/or reviewed by U-M Health System providers but it is not a tool for self-diagnosis or a substitute for medical treatment. You should speak to your physician or make an appointment to be seen if you have questions or concerns about this information or your medical condition. Exención de responsabilidad en Español | Complete disclaimer
Dandruff is normal shedding of skin. On most of the body surface, the flakes of dead skin fall to the ground without notice, but they can accumulate in the hair. This is a normal process that occurs throughout life on the entire body. It is not contagious.
The key to fighting dandruff is removing the flakes as fast as they form by washing the hair daily. A regular shampoo usually works very well. Brush your child's hair before each washing. Eventually, you may be able to wash your child's hair every other day without seeing dandruff, but you probably won't ever be able to wash it less often than that.
If the scalp is red and irritated or the scales are quite greasy, use a medicated shampoo, mousse, or gel (one containing selenium sulfide). These medicated products not only remove the dandruff but also cut down on the rate of shedding.
Your child's shampoo is _________________________. This type of shampoo is used in a special way: lather the hair, wait 3 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Do this 3 days in a row and then once a week. Use a regular nonmedicated shampoo on other days.
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