The following agents are primarily responsible for causing dandruff:
- Malassezia fungus
- Genetic factors
- Dry or oily skin
- Seborrheic dermatitis
The risk factors of dandruff include adolescent age, male gender and a weak immune system.

The indications of dandruff are as follows:
- Itchy scalp
- Skin flakes
- Red patches on skin

A daily hair wash with a medicated shampoo can prevent or control dandruff. Ketoconazole, zinc or selenium sulphide should be present in the medicated shampoo.

The available treatment options for dandruff are as follows:
- Medicated shampoo containing ketoconazole, zinc or selenium sulphide
- Tar-based shampoos
- Shampoos containing salicylic acid

The complete cure of dandruff is yet to be determined; however, it can be controlled by the regular use of medicated shampoos that should have ketoconazole, zinc or selenium sulphide.