Source — The Dandruff Hair Loss Connection Explained. The short answer is no, dandruff alone doesn't cause hair loss. But the itching, scratching, and inflammation that come with it, and that's a different story. Scraping your scalp damages follicles. Over weeks or months, that damage forces hairs into their resting phase ahead of schedule. You get temporary shedding, not permanent loss. Clear up the dandruff, and the cycle ends. Choose the Right Shampoo Your best first move is an over-the-counter dandruff shampoo, and each active ingredient targets a different cause. Zinc pyrithione fights both fungus and bacteria, and for mild dandruff, that one works.
Whichever product you pick, use it for at least four weeks. Wash the Right Way Daily washing doesn't make dandruff worse, that's a myth. Watch Your Environment Stress bumps up cortisol, which can increase oil production. Know When to See a Doctor But if you've used two different dandruff shampoos over six weeks and your scalp stays red, itchy, or flaking heavily, see a dermatologist.