Dandruff (also called pityriasis capitis) is seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp. It is believed to be caused by a proliferation of a normal skin inhabitant, a yeast called Pitysporum ovale (Malassezia furfur). It is a common skin condition, which also occurs on the face and in other areas such as the chest, armpits and groin. If dandruff of the scalp is present, there will often be seborrheic dermatitis affecting the eyebrows, eyelid edges, ears, and around the nose. Dandruff is a harmless cosmetic problem rather than a troublesome medical condition and it does not cause hair loss. It cannot be cured, but it can be controlled.