The Truth About Dandruff: What Barbers Want Men to Know

Oct 20

Few things ruin a sharp haircut faster than flakes on your shoulders. Dandruff might seem like a small issue, but for many men, it’s an ongoing frustration — one that affects not just your appearance, but your confidence. You might have tried switching shampoos, scrubbing harder, or ignoring it altogether, but the truth is, most men don’t actually understand what causes dandruff or how to deal with it properly.

At In The Cut Barbershop in Vancouver, we’ve seen it all — from mild flaking to full-on scalp irritation — and we can tell you this: dandruff isn’t something to be embarrassed about, but it is something you can control once you know the facts.

Let’s clear up the most common misconceptions and get into what really works.

1. What Dandruff Actually Is — and Isn’t

A lot of men assume dandruff means your scalp is “too dry,” but that’s not always true. Dandruff is actually caused by an imbalance on your scalp — usually an overgrowth of a naturally occurring yeast called Malassezia. This yeast feeds on oils (sebum) produced by your scalp, and when it becomes excessive, it can cause irritation, flaking, and itching.

There are two main types of dandruff you should know about:

Dry scalp dandruff: Smaller, powdery flakes caused by lack of moisture or over-washing.
Oily dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis): Larger, yellowish flakes that stick to the scalp and hair due to excess oil production.

Understanding which one you have makes all the difference in how you treat it.

2. Common Mistakes Men Make with Dandruff

Many men unknowingly make their dandruff worse by following bad habits or misinformation. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Over-washing your hair: Stripping your scalp of natural oils can cause rebound oiliness and irritation.
Using harsh shampoos: Strong sulfates can dry out or inflame the scalp, especially if you already have dandruff.
Ignoring scalp care: Your scalp needs just as much care as your skin — it’s part of your overall grooming routine.
Using too much product: Pomades, gels, and waxes can clog pores and trap oils, creating the perfect environment for dandruff.

The goal isn’t to scrub harder or wash more often — it’s to treat your scalp with balance.

3. The Right Way to Treat Dandruff

You don’t have to live with dandruff. A few targeted changes to your hair routine can make a big difference — especially when done consistently.

Here’s how to get started:

Choose the right shampoo:
Look for shampoos with ingredients like:
- Zinc pyrithione (fights yeast and bacteria)
- Ketoconazole (antifungal and highly effective)
- Salicylic acid (exfoliates scalp buildup)
- Coal tar (slows skin cell production in severe cases)
Avoid hot water:
Rinsing your hair with very hot water can irritate the scalp and dry it out. Go for lukewarm or cool water instead.
Moisturize when needed:
If your scalp feels tight or itchy, try a lightweight, natural oil like jojoba or tea tree oil once a week.
Rinse thoroughly:
Product buildup is one of the top causes of dandruff-like flakes. Always rinse your hair completely after using shampoo or styling products.
Visit your barber regularly:
A skilled barber can help spot scalp issues early and recommend the right routine to keep your hair and scalp healthy.

4. When to See a Professional

If you’ve tried dandruff shampoos for a few weeks and the flakes keep coming back — or if your scalp is red, sore, or scaly — it may be time to consult a dermatologist. Some scalp conditions, like psoriasis or eczema, can look like dandruff but require different treatments.

Your barber can often be the first to notice when something looks off. We’ve seen countless clients come in thinking it’s “just dandruff,” only to discover there’s an underlying cause that needs medical care. So, don’t hesitate to ask your barber for their honest opinion — we’re here to help, not judge.

5. Preventing Dandruff Long-Term

Once you’ve gotten dandruff under control, the key is to maintain scalp health. Think of it like keeping your beard or fade fresh — consistency is everything.

Here’s how to keep flakes from making a comeback:

Stick to a balanced shampoo routine (2–3 times a week for most men).
Clean your styling tools like brushes and combs regularly.
Use lighter hair products that won’t clog your scalp.
Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet rich in omega-3s and zinc.
Visit your barber every few weeks to keep your scalp clean and your hairline sharp.

Small, regular habits make all the difference in maintaining a healthy scalp.

Conclusion

Dandruff isn’t a sign of poor hygiene — it’s a sign that your scalp needs better care. Once you understand what’s causing it and take the right approach, you can keep your hair looking clean, healthy, and flake-free.

At In The Cut Barbershop in Vancouver, we don’t just give great haircuts — we care about scalp and hair health too. Our experienced barbers can help you identify what’s going on with your scalp, recommend the right products, and keep your haircut looking fresh no matter what.

Book your next appointment at In The Cut Barbershop in Vancouver today and take the first step toward a cleaner scalp, sharper style, and healthier hair.