While there is some indication that presentation of dandruff increases in the winter, the cold seasons do not directly cause dandruff.[1] Rather, factors such as spending more inside in the presence of dry air and wearing a hat — which raises the temperature of one’s scalp — may promote conditions under which dandruff-promoting microbes thrive.
Why does my dandruff get worse in the winter?
Written by:
Fact-checked
by:
•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Dandruff may appear worse in winter due to factors like spending more time indoors with dry air and wearing hats, which create conditions that favor dandruff-promoting microbes. However, the cold weather itself does not directly cause dandruff.