Flaky scalp not dandruff

 Your Scalp Is Flaky

Dandruff isn't the problem—it's the hiatus from hair washing that makes your mane smell gamey.

"It's a common misperception that dandruff occurs when your hair scalp is too dry,"  a myth that makes people wash their hair less. This, combined with the fact that an irritated scalp may be more of a bacteria breeding ground, can make your tresses smell. "In fact, dandruff happens when your hair is too oily."

Fix it: Washing your hair with shampoo regularly may help get the flakes in check. If not, try an OTC dandruff shampoo. Look for ones with zinc pyrithione, an antifungal/antibacterial agent that can de-germ your scalp (found in Head & Shoulders or Selsun Salon), or with coal tar, an ingredient that slows down your skin cell–shedding process (like Neutrogena T/Gel). If the dandruff still doesn't go away after a few weeks, see your doctor or derm. You may need a stronger prescription-strength product or steroid lotion.