Q. I read that scientists think that dandruff may result from a yeast infection. I believe this has proven true for me.
I was plagued with flakes and the persistent itching was my nemesis. I tried all the usual home remedies to no avail. When I started taking probiotics, I got relief and a clear scalp almost overnight.
A. Dermatologists have concluded that both dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis are caused by yeast called Malassezia (British Journal of Dermatology, Suppl. S2, Oct. 2011). These yeasts may also be associated with other skin problems such as atopic dermatitis.
There is not a lot of research on the value of probiotics for dandruff. One small study of men with dandruff reported benefits from the probiotic Lactobacillus paracasei (Skin & Allergy News, Nov. 2009).
