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This article about dandruff describes how most dandruff is caused by a fungus, Malassezia globosa, ("There are up to 10 million M. globosa fungi on the average human head.") that feeds on a person's sebum, making enzymes that encourage faster skin growth and consequent flaking in the area.
My personal observations are that soaps and regular shampoos remove protective oils and/or encourage higher production levels of sebum for the fungus to feed on. Of course, if you want oil-free hair, there's not much alternative.
BBC Article about dandruff
That article makes interesting reading and would be nice if they can cure it. When I used to have dandruff I used to use a product called Head and Shoulders as a kid and it worked. But after applying it I'm sure you could feel it burning your scalp! These days I tend to use mild shampoos and only see so called "dandruff" only when under an ultra violet light.
Cheers,
John.B
Sorry, Pete, --- I guess I just couldn't resist making that little pun!
In all seriousness, though, thanks for sharing this article. I used to have dandruff when I was younger; but, for some reason, have not had it in many, many years. Nowadays I just use a mild shampoo made by an all-natural health food type of company called, "Avalon Organics". I use the pads of my finger tips (NOT my nails) to massage my scalp to work up a good lather, --- sometimes even quite vigorously! I think it also has helped that I've been in a habit for years now of regularly brushing my hair (when dry ONLY, though). The brushing ritual really stimulates the scalp, encouraging blood to flow to and nourish the hair roots, as well as helps transfer sebum down the hair shaft. I haven't had to use a harsh dandruff shampoo like Head & Shoulders in probably over 30 years (but hey, who's counting - lol).... Another thing I've been told that's crucial to help prevent or cure dandruff is to make sure to rinse out any soap or shampoo very, VERY thoroughly!
Take care, --- and thanks again for sharing that article!
- Ken in San Francisco