In Melbourne, more and more men are dealing with the same problem — seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp.

It looks like oily, sticky flakes that don’t fall off like regular dandruff — they cling to the skin. These patches can be white or yellowish, sometimes forming greasy crusts and shine. Even after washing, they stay on, while the skin underneath feels itchy and irritated.

Many guys think it’s just dandruff or “dryness from shampoo,” but in fact, it’s an inflammation of the scalp caused by a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia and overactive oil glands.

It’s not really about the climate — it’s about habits.

A lot of men wash their hair once a week or even less, especially if they keep it short. Add workouts, hats, sweat, and hair products — and you’ve got a perfect environment for fungus and irritation.

When you wash your hair too rarely, your scalp stops breathing. Oil and sweat build up, and yeast starts multiplying. That’s how seborrheic dermatitis develops — greasy, inflamed skin with sticky flakes that are hard to wash off.

Watch for these signs:

    •    White or yellowish, sticky flakes that don’t fall off easily;

    •    Oily, shiny scalp — especially around the crown or back of the head;

    •    Redness under the flakes;

    •    Itching and that “dirty scalp” feeling, even after washing;

    •    Sometimes a sour smell and fast oil buildup.

If you notice these — it’s not just dandruff, it’s inflammation.

Washing your hair only once a week is way too rare — especially for guys with active oil glands.

In seven days, your scalp collects:

    •    excess sebum,

    •    sweat,

    •    styling product residue,

    •    bacteria and fungi.

All of that feeds Malassezia — the fungus that triggers seborrheic dermatitis.

When the scalp gets inflamed, follicles get clogged and hair roots don’t get enough nutrients.

Over time, your hair gets thinner, weaker, and starts falling out.

Yes — if you ignore it.

Constant inflammation and itching damage the scalp, weaken follicles, and lead to hair loss.

At early stages, it’s reversible, but if the scalp stays inflamed for a long time, some follicles may die permanently.

For most men — 2 to 3 times a week is ideal.

If your scalp is oily or you already have seborrheic dermatitis — wash 3 times a week during flare-ups using medicated shampoos with:

    •    ketoconazole,

    •    zinc pyrithione,

    •    or selenium sulfide.

These ingredients fight fungus and calm inflammation. Regular washing keeps oil under control.

Unfortunately — no.

Wearing hats or caps all the time traps heat and sweat. The scalp can’t breathe, the temperature rises, and fungus grows even faster.

As a result — more itching, oil, and irritation.

    •    Seborrheic dermatitis isn’t “just dandruff” — it’s an inflammation.

    •    It’s caused by too much oil and washing too rarely.

    •    Wash your hair regularly — at least 2–3 times a week, and use medicated shampoos when needed.

    •    The sooner you start treatment, the faster your scalp and hair recover.

If you notice greasy flakes, itching, or redness — don’t wait.

Wash your hair not “when you remember,” but when your scalp actually needs it.

A clean scalp isn’t just about looks — it’s the foundation of healthy, strong hair.