dandruff

visible scaling from the surface of the scalp. It is extremely common, occurring in about 50% of the population, and is associated with the presence of the yeastPityrosporum ovale. It is the precursor of seborrhoeic ECZEMA of the scalp, in which there is a degree of inflammation in addition to the greasy scaling. Dandruff can be controlled by shampoos containing tar, selenium sulphide, zinc pyrithione, or imidazole antifungals.