As the top layer of the skin, known as the epidermis, continually replaces itself, cells are pushed outward where they become flattened and eventually die and flake off. Often these flakes of skin are too small to be visible and often form part of the dust that is seen around the home. However, certain conditions cause cell regeneration to be accelerated in the region of the scalp causing cells to mature quickly and flake off more rapidly. This results in the formation of white, greyish clumps of oily dead skin cells known as dandruff.

Most cases of dandruff can be treated with special shampoos that wash away the oil and contain antifungal medication.

However, just the act of washing the hair frequently will reduce the oil on the skin and remove a great number of dead cells and reduce dandruff.

Advertising encourages those affected by dandruff to experience low self-esteem.

Look at the video on the right of a 1960s advert.

How does it make you feel about dandruff?

Look at the video on the right

According to the video what is dandruff?

Why is dandruff associated with oily skin?

Which is the largest organ of the human body?

What is the function of the skin?

The skin is composed of two distinct layers. Name them

The outer layer of the skin, the epidermis, consists of two parts, the stratum cormeum and the basal layer.
What does the stratum corneum consist of?
What is the function of the basal layer?

What is the dermis made of?

Name some of the structures embedded in the dermis.

Where does the oil that clumps dead skin cells together come from?

Is dandruff harmful to the individual?

Why do advertising companies portray dandruff as socially unacceptable?