Sensitive scalp: understanding and treating dandruff gently

25/09/2025
FEMME-CUIR-CHEVELU-AVEC-PELLICULES
Problématiques cutanées

We often talk about sensitive skin when we talk about facial skin... but did you know that the scalp can also be fragile ? Discomfort, itching, redness, and even dandruff are signs of an unbalanced scalp. But while these discomforts are common, they are not inevitable. It is possible to soothe a reactive scalp and limit the formation of dandruff that is often associated with it.

In this article, we suggest you better understand your scalp by identifying the possible causes of dandruff, but also adopt the right actions and appropriate care to regain a healthy and comfortable scalp and treat your dandruff.

Why does the scalp also deserve appropriate care?

The scalp, an extension of the facial skin

The skin of the scalp is made up of the same layers as the skin of the face 1:

  • The epidermis : this corresponds to the superficial layer of the skin , which acts as a protective barrier against external aggressions. It contains in particular keratinocytes (keratin producers), lipid bodies, immune cells and melanocytes at the origin of the color of our hair. The epidermis also has a protective hydrolipidic film, composed of water, sweat, sebum and fatty acids, which maintains hydration and protects the skin flora.
  • The dermis : located below the epidermis, it houses blood vessels, nerves, collagen and elastin fibers, as well as sebaceous and sweat glands.
  • The hypodermis : the deepest layer of the scalp , composed of fatty tissue, it plays a role in thermoregulation and mechanical protection.

The scalp, however, has particularities that differentiate it from the skin of the face and body:

  • It is characterized by a large number of hair follicles, each associated with a sebaceous gland, making it an area richer in sebum.
  • Its skin microbiota is very specific and can easily become unbalanced, particularly in cases of stress, inappropriate care or excessive washing.
  • It is particularly innervated : this is why we can quickly feel sensations of discomfort, burning or tingling in the event of imbalance.

The scalp is therefore a sensitive area in its own right , which deserves particularly appropriate attention and care.

An area prone to discomfort

Even our scalp can be sensitive! And thus become a source of daily discomfort with tingling, itching, scales or dandruff, redness... Sometimes neglected, and really uncomfortable, these signs nevertheless deserve our full attention.

The impact of an unbalanced scalp on quality of life

The discomfort of an itchy, flaky, or tight scalp isn't just physical. It can also have a real psychological impact, with a loss of confidence, stress, and embarrassment in public, especially when dandruff becomes visible.

It is estimated that nearly 1 in 2 adults are affected by episodes of dandruff during their lifetime² . Despite its benign nature, dandruff is often experienced as a complex and associated with stress (for around 54% of those affected) and even anxiety (29%)². Dandruff tarnishes self-image, marks clothing, causes irritability and isolation, especially among adolescents or in exposed professional or social contexts.

The good news is that the discomfort of dandruff can be reduced with an effective dandruff treatment! It's a great way to regain emotional well-being and a lighter, more relaxed life .

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Dandruff: How does it form and why does it appear?

What are dandruff?

Dandruff is caused by clumps of dead skin cells on the scalp that are renewed more quickly . It is also often referred to as scales. Typically, cell renewal takes 21 to 28 days. However, this cycle can be shortened to just 7 to 14 days: dead cells accumulate, shed more quickly... and become visible.

At the same time, we distinguish two types of dandruff depending on the nature of the scalp:

  • In dry scalps, dandruff is dry : white and fine, it falls easily onto the shoulders.
  • In oily scalps, dandruff is greasy: thicker and yellowish, this dandruff remains stuck to the scalp, at the hair roots, and is often accompanied by itching.

Common causes of dandruff

Dandruff can have several origins , often combined⁴:

  • An imbalance of the scalp microbiota , with excessive proliferation of the yeast Malassezia .
  • Excess sebum , which promotes oily dandruff.
  • Or on the contrary, dry skin which causes dry dandruff.
  • Internal factors : stress, fatigue, hormonal imbalances or a diet lacking in essential nutrients.
  • Unsuitable hair habits : harsh shampoos, washing too frequently or insufficiently.
  • External aggressions : pollution, cold, heating, wearing tight hats.

Aggravating factors to watch out for

Certain habits or pathologies can maintain or worsen dandruff:

  • Scratching , which further irritates the scalp.
  • Residues from poorly rinsed styling products .
  • Skin conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis , psoriasis or eczema , which require dermatological monitoring.

Focus on Malassezia yeast in the appearance of dandruff

The scalp naturally harbors a skin microbiota , composed of bacteria and yeasts, including the genus Malassezia . This lipophilic (oil-loving) yeast feeds on the lipids present in the sebum of the scalp. Under normal conditions, it coexists in harmony with the skin.
But in the event of an imbalance (excess sebum, stress, weakened skin barrier, etc.), Malassezia can multiply excessively and release fatty acids that alter the epidermal barrier and cause:

  • Local inflammation ,
  • An acceleration of cell renewal ,
  • And therefore excessive flaking , which causes dandruff.

This mechanism is particularly developed in oily dandruff and in seborrheic dermatitis , a more severe and inflammatory form.

The right actions and treatments to take care of your sensitive scalp and eliminate dandruff

  • Adapting your skincare routine to your sensitive scalp

    Sensitive scalp needs gentle care and avoidance of repeated aggression.
    Here are some good habits to incorporate into your routine:

    • Space out washes : 2 to 3 times a week is sufficient in most cases. Washing too frequently unbalances the scalp.
    • Choose gentle shampoos without harsh sulfates. It's better to use a gentle cleansing base that soothes rather than irritates.
    • Gently massage your scalp with your fingertips: this stimulates microcirculation and promotes tissue oxygenation.

  • Choose a high-tolerance anti-dandruff shampoo

    To effectively treat dandruff while respecting the sensitivity of the scalp, choose a dermatological treatment shampoo enriched with targeted but gentle active ingredients:

    • Zinc pyrithione : antibacterial and antifungal, it limits the proliferation of Malassezia , the yeast often involved in the appearance of dandruff.
    • Salicylic acid : This gentle keratolytic helps remove surface scales without irritating the skin.
    • Piroctone olamine : It is an effective and well-tolerated anti-seborrheic, antibacterial and antifungal agent, widely used in dermatological shampoos.
    • Soothing active ingredients to calm feelings of overheating or itching.

  • Exfoliate, moisturize and soothe the scalp daily

    Whether dry or prone to oily dandruff, an unbalanced scalp needs to be hydrated and soothed to regain balance and comfort.

    1. Consider exfoliating your scalp with an exfoliating treatment suitable for sensitive and dandruff-prone scalps . These scrubs are generally formulated with gentle grains, mild fruit acids (AHAs) or plant enzymes. Performed once a week, this simple action allows:
    • Gently remove dead cells and styling product residue.
    • To unclog pores without damaging the skin.
    • And to promote oxygenation of the scalp , for better effectiveness of the treatments applied afterwards.
    1. Moisturize your scalp to restore its skin barrier . After your anti-dandruff shampoo, apply a moisturizing or soothing leave-in serum to your damp scalp. Choose a formula containing active ingredients such as vegetable glycerin or panthenol.

The Topicrem answer:
Discover our Dermo Specific range, designed to target the elimination of dandruff from the scalp and flakes from the skin of the face and body. Dermo Specific PH5 shampoo gently cleanses and moisturizes sensitive scalps thanks to glycerin.

Protecting your scalp every day

In addition to specific shampoos or treatments, a few simple daily actions can make all the difference in preventing the appearance or reappearance of dandruff , and preserving the balance of the scalp.

Limit mechanical or thermal attacks

  • Avoid direct heat sources : Overly hot hair dryers, straighteners or irons can dry out and sensitize the scalp, weakening its natural barrier.
  • Opt for gentle drying at a moderate temperature , and let your hair air dry as soon as possible.
  • Hairstyles that are too tight (ponytails, braids, buns) can put excessive traction on the scalp. Vary your styles and prioritize comfort.

Protect the scalp from external elements

  • In summer, remember to cover your head or apply a hair and scalp protection spray if you are going to be exposed to the sun for a long time.
  • In winter, choose a soft hat (cotton or fine wool), without harsh friction on the skin.

Nourish your scalp from the inside out

  • A balanced diet supports skin health. Choose B vitamins (especially B6 and B8), zinc, and omega-3s (found in whole grains, legumes, eggs, seafood, oilseeds, and oily fish, etc.).
  • These nutrients promote more resilient skin , better regulated sebum production and a healthier scalp.
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Sensitive scalp and dandruff: when to consult?

In most cases, dandruff can be treated with a gentle, regular routine and appropriate care. However, it can also persist or worsen ... It's then time to seek professional advice.

Overall, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist in the following cases:

  • If dandruff persists despite several weeks of appropriate and targeted care.
  • If you experience intense itching , redness , thick or oozing patches on the scalp.
  • If you suspect an underlying condition such as seborrheic dermatitis , psoriasis or eczema .

A dermatologist will be able to make an accurate diagnosis , suggest a treatment adapted to your sensitive skin and help you quickly regain comfort and serenity.

So, we sometimes forget it, but our scalp is indeed a full-fledged extension of our skin , with its specificities, its needs, its fragilities and its reactions. When it is sensitive, itches, tightens or flakes, its discomfort impacts our physical comfort but also our psychological well-being.

Fortunately, there are easy-to-implement, suitable, and effective solutions. By combining a gentle routine with high-tolerance care and a few daily actions, it is possible to sustainably rebalance your scalp , reduce dandruff , and regain a feeling of well-being and lightness.

TOPICREM formulas have all been designed with the aim of providing protective hydration and preserving the skin barrier of sensitive skin for the whole family.

To do this, our laboratory relies on its expertise derived from pharmaceutical excellence:

  • Selection of high tolerance ingredients with proven effectiveness,
  • Development of clinically tested formulas on sensitive skin,
  • Effectiveness proven by science and approved by consumers.

Through the comfort and emotional well-being they provide, our treatments help you feel confident with your skin and with yourself, to better reveal yourself to others, and thus to fully enjoy every moment of life. .

Bibliographic references:

¹Hoover E, Alhajj M, Flores JL. Physiology, Hair. [Updated 2023 Jul 30]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499948/
Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499948/

²Chan CS, Smith T, He Z, Garter C. The Sequelae and Moderators of Influence of Dandruff on Mental Health Among Mainland Chinese Adults. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2024 Jun 11;17:1333-1346. doi: 10.2147/CCID.S459498. PMID: 38881702; PMCID: PMC11179641.
Link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11179641/

³Newton-Fenner A, Roberts H, Scott M, Jones T, Collins L, Godbehere A, Giesbrecht T. Clear scalp, clear mind: Examining the beneficial impact of dandruff reduction on physical, emotional and social wellbeing. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2025 Jan 21. doi: 10.1111/ics.13041. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39838710.
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39838710/

⁴DeAngelis YM, Gemmer CM, Kaczvinsky JR, Kenneally DC, Schwartz JR, Dawson TL Jr. Three etiologic facets of dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis: Malassezia fungi, sebaceous lipids, and individual sensitivity. J Investig Dermatol Symp Proc. 2005 Dec;10(3):295-7. doi: 10.1111/j.1087-0024.2005.10119.x. PMID: 16382685.
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16382685/

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