Part 7
Flaking Scalp (Dandruff)
Two very different types, two very different routines.
Not medical advice
This content is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It does not diagnose, treat, or cure any condition and does not create a doctor-patient relationship. For any skin or scalp concern, please consult a dermatologist or physician.
Read the full disclaimerTwo types
Your scalp renews itself constantly. When cells shed too quickly or clump together, visible flakes appear.
- Oily / seborrheic type — excess sebum plus Malassezia yeast activity.
- Dry type — a dehydrated scalp with a disrupted barrier, often from stripping, alkaline shampoos.
What helps with the dry type
- Oat flour is the first choice: beta-glucan and avenanthramides soothe and support the moisture barrier.
- Rye flour: mildly acidic pH protects the barrier, and B5 hydrates.
- Rhassoul clay: not a good fit — too absorbent for an already dry scalp.
What helps with the oily type
- Rhassoul clay absorbs sebum exceptionally well and makes the surface less hospitable to yeast overgrowth.
- Rye flour with a drop of tea tree oil: saponins reduce buildup while the acidic pH discourages fungal activity.
- Shikakai cleanses gently at low pH and avoids the rebound oiliness that harsh sulfate shampoos can cause.
Honest limits
For severe seborrheic dermatitis, a medicated shampoo prescribed or recommended by your dermatologist may be needed for a while. Gentle washes can become your long-term routine once symptoms are under control.