While dandruff may run in families, there isn’t one gene that causes dandruff. However, predisposing factors like one’s individual sensitivity to oleic acid — which is produced when the microbe Malassezia feeds on naturally-occurring skin oils — can be inherited.[1] In addition, some gene mutations that are responsible for skin cell differentiation have been shown to exacerbate skin inflammation and oil production, two factors that contribute to dandruff.[2]
Can dandruff be inherited?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Dandruff can run in families, but it is not caused by a single gene. Instead, inherited factors such as sensitivity to oleic acid and certain gene mutations that affect skin cell differentiation may contribute to its development.