Everything you need to know about Dandruff

Dandruff, a prevalent skin condition, can greatly impact our appearance. Dealing with it can be quite bothersome and unsettling for everyone. However, it becomes challenging to treat or prevent it without understanding its root causes. Fortunately, taking preventive measures against dandruff is a simple task and is explained in this article. 

What is Dandruff?

Dandruff is simply a condition that causes the skin cells that build up on the scalp to peel and flake. It is a milder form of skin condition known as seborrheic dermatitis. 

Causes

Dandruff doesn’t have any particular cause and can be caused in many different ways: 

• Accumulation of yeast-like fungus on the scalp
• Having a dry and oily scalp
• Irritated and sensitive skin
• Other skin conditions such as Eczema, Scalp Ringworm, and Psoriasis
• Prolonged stress or sickness
• Certain chemicals found in hair care, styling, and coloring products have the potential to irritate the scalp.

Is Dandruff only found in Hair/Scalp?

This is a myth. Dandruff can be found everywhere. It can be found in the body, hair, eyelids, beard, and mustache. 

Symptoms

• Red and itchy scalp 
• Flaky and dry skin 
• Red or silver rash on the scalp
• Greasy or crusty patches on the scalp 

Are there any health effects of Dandruff?

Generally, it is non-contagious and not a very serious issue. However, having dandruff can never be pleasant. Excessive dandruff can sometimes cause health effects, such as: 

• Eye infections
• Pimples
• Forehead acne 
• Acne on back 
• Too much hair fall 
• Itchy Scalp 

How can we prevent Dandruff?

There are several ways to prevent dandruff. 

1. Wash your hair frequently
2. Use a mild, anti-dandruff shampoo
3. Manage your stress
4. Avoid using harsh chemicals on your hair
5. Replace unhealthy fats with healthy fats

Can Dandruff be treated? 

Dandruff can not be cured but can be treated in several ways. You can either perform home remedies or clinical procedures. 

1. Using an anti-dandruff shampoo containing any of these chemicals can help treat it.
   1. Ketoconazole
   2. Salicylic Acid
   3. Selenium Sulfide
   4. Coal Tar  
2. You can regularly wash your hair with homemade exfoliants to remove excess oil and buildup. Yeast-causing dandruff can reproduce rapidly on an oily scalp. 
3. The application of tea tree oil can help treat your dandruff. 
4. Eating healthy fats regulates the oil production in your scalp and eliminates dandruff. 

Conclusion

Don’t let dandruff bother you anymore, as there are effective ways to keep it at bay. So, taking proactive steps to prevent it is crucial, as treating it can be quite a challenge but not impossible. However, seeking guidance from a dermatologist is the wisest choice to make before taking any action to address your concern.

References

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dandruff/symptoms-causes/syc-20353850#:~:text=Dandruff%20is%20a%20common%20condition,with%20a%20gentle%20daily%20shampoo. 
https://www.health.com/dandruff-7964686 
https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/understanding-dandruff-basics 
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dandruff/symptoms-causes/syc-20353850#:~:text=Dandruff%20is%20a%20common%20condition,with%20a%20gentle%20daily%20shampoo. 
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dandruff/
https://www.thehealthsite.com/photo-gallery/beauty-side-effects-of-dandruff-you-must-know-t0316-374985/side-effects-of-dandruff-374986/  
https://www.health.com/dandruff-7964686 
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dandruff/ 
https://www.everydayhealth.com/dandruff/guide/