Do Head Lice Cause Dandruff?

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using an anti-dandruff shampoo at least twice a week. If a shampoo is not effective, a dermatologist should be consulted to determine the underlying cause. Some people suffer from dandruff from a variety of causes, including a yeast infection, autoimmune condition, or eczema. It is important to seek medical advice before using a head lice shampoo, as the lice have developed an immunity to the toxins in lice shampoos.

Both dandruff and head lice can be very irritating and itchy. The symptoms of both are similar, but one may be more severe than the other. Dandruff is caused by flakes that fall from the scalp. Additionally, the scalp may be oily or dry, and itchy.

Dandruff can also cause itching, which can be long-lasting or seasonal. Itching may be worse during cold or dry weather. However, some people are more likely to experience dandruff than others. The flakes that accompany dandruff are irregular in shape and can easily fall off the hair.

Lice live in the hair and are tiny critters with six legs. They live close to the scalp and feed on blood. However, head lice do not transmit disease. The life cycle of lice can repeat every three weeks. A single head louse can lay up to 10 eggs a day.