Barber Practice State Board Practice Exam

Which factor can contribute to dandruff?

1. Lack of hygiene

2. Excessive washing

3. Balanced diet

4. Use of hair products

The correct answer is: Lack of hygiene

Dandruff can indeed be linked to a lack of hygiene. When the scalp is not kept clean, it can become an environment that promotes the growth of fungi, particularly Malassezia, which is commonly associated with dandruff. Dead skin cells and oils accumulate, leading to the formation of flakes and irritation. Regular washing helps to remove these substances, preventing buildup and maintaining a healthier scalp environment. While excessive washing can strip the scalp of natural oils and potentially lead to dryness or irritation, a balanced diet contributes positively to overall scalp health and is not associated with dandruff development. The use of hair products can sometimes irritate the scalp or lead to allergic reactions, but this is not as significant a contributing factor to dandruff as poor hygiene practices. Therefore, maintaining good hygiene is essential in managing and preventing dandruff effectively.