Hair & scalp concerns

What’s going on with your scalp — and your hair?

Each concern page brings together the guide, the ingredients worth knowing, the product types that fit and — for anything health-related — when to see a pharmacist or GP.

Close-up of fluffy cream-white tea tree flowers and fine needle-like green leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia against a soft blurred green background — Photo: Geoff Derrin, CC BY-SA 4.0

DandruffWhite or greyish flakes on the scalp and shoulders, sometimes with itching. Common, harmless and not catching.
Dry or itchy scalpTight, itchy or irritated skin — often from flakes, a product reaction, psoriasis or head lice. Finding the cause is the key.
Seborrhoeic dermatitisRed, flaky, sometimes greasy scale on the scalp, eyebrows and sides of the nose that comes and goes.
Scalp psoriasisRaised, scaly, itchy patches that can spread past the hairline and behind the ears. Not contagious; can be controlled.
Oily scalpRoots that look greasy soon after washing. Usually a cosmetic nuisance — wash as often as you need.
Product build-upA coated, dull or waxy feel from styling products, oils, dry shampoo or hard water — easy to clear with a clarifying wash.
Head liceVery common in children and nothing to do with dirty hair. Check with a detection comb; treat everyone affected on the same day.

Hair loss & thinningGradual thinning, sudden shedding or bald patches. Most hair loss is temporary or part of ageing — some types are worth a GP's view.

Not medical advice. This guide is general information from the sources listed, not a diagnosis or a substitute for a pharmacist, GP or dermatologist. If you are worried, or symptoms are severe or not improving, get advice. Read our health information policy.

What’s going on with your scalp — and your hair?

Scalp

Hair loss & thinning

Hair condition