What common scalp condition can cause flakes and itching?

Dandruff is a common scalp condition characterized by the presence of flakes and itching. It occurs due to a variety of factors, including the overproduction of oil, a reaction to hair products, or the presence of a yeast-like fungus known as Malassezia. The skin on the scalp becomes irritated, leading to the rapid turnover of skin cells, which then form visible flakes. These flakes can be easily seen in hair and may fall onto clothing, causing embarrassment for those affected.

Unlike other conditions, dandruff is generally less severe and often manageable with regular use of anti-dandruff shampoos that contain active ingredients such as zinc pyrithione or selenium sulfide. While conditions like eczema and psoriasis can also cause similar symptoms, they are typically accompanied by more severe inflammation and can affect the scalp and other areas of the body, presenting a different clinical picture than typical dandruff. Fungal infections can lead to symptoms as well but are generally associated with additional signs of infection, such as redness and more pronounced irritation.