Dandruff is a disorder where the skin on the scalp sheds excess amounts off of its top layer. The condition may also appear around the eyebrows and nose area. Its non-contagious and quite common amongst teenagers but often occurs as an adult as well. There are various factors that increase the risk of developing dandruff, including a person’s age, sex (males may be more prone due to testosterone) the weather, stress levels, medical conditions, and choice of hair products. Poor hygiene is not a factor, but the flakes may be more visible if a person does not wash or brush their hair often.
Some symptoms and causes may be-
Symptoms:
1. Dry, flaky, red and very itchy skin on various areas of the body.
2. Itchy, scaly and red patches on skin on scalp, face and other areas of the body.
3. Irritated, red skin may also have blisters and cracked skin on scalp, ear, nose, beard, chest.
and back; commonly a reaction to certain products.
4. Red, itchy, irritated scalp with pimple like appearance.
5. Crusty, red, flaky and sore patches of skin covered with silvery scales.
6. Silver or red rash on scalp, with occasional patchy hair loss.
Possible causes:
1. Eczema.
2. Seborrheic Dermatitis.
3. Contact Dermatitis.
4. Malassezia (yeast like fungus- that feeds on oils secreted by the scalp/hair follicles).
5. Psoriasis.
6. Tinea Capitis (Ringworm).
Remedies and Treatments for Dandruff
Pyrithione Zinc Shampoos: Main ingredient which is both antifungal and antibacterial.
Ketoconazole Shampoos: This ingredient focuses on killing any fungi present on your scalp (antifungal properties).
Selenium Sulfide Shampoos: Another effective antifungal ingredient .
Salicylic Acid Shampoos: Mainly encourages healing of scales on the scalp.
Tar-based Shampoos: Helps slow the turnover rate for the dying skin cells on the scalp.
Some alternative clinically proven Natural Remedies-
Tea tree oil: Composes of a compound called terpinen-4-ol, which possesses powerful antimicrobial properties. Adding tea tree oil directly might cause inflammation; so only adding a few drops with a regular shampoo is more suitable.
Aloe vera gel: This natural plant is known for its healing properties (if well suited) which contains multiple bioactive components like amino acids and antioxidants which improve moisture retention, reduce inflammation and promote wound healing.
Glycolic Acid: Contains antimicrobial properties which works to remove excess sebum and product buildup. Removes dead skin cells from the surface by breaking down and lifting the substance that causes dead cells to cluster together. Should be used occasionally to avoid irritation.
Lemongrass oil: Contains antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that reduce dandruff symptoms. Causes irritation if applied directly; so must be diluted with water or mix a few drops with regular shampoo.
Baking Soda: Also known as Sodium Bicarbonate is an exfoliant that can remove excess skin cells and oil on the scalp. Possesses antifungal properties. Using this too often may damage the scalp and make hair brittle due to its very high pH level.
Some following tips to follow and avoid.
1. In certain situations, you may see your dandruff shampoo become less
effective than before, so to avoid this from occurring simply switch to
alternatives occasionally.
2. Shampoo once or twice weekly.
3. Avoid using oils overnight. It may cause breeding grounds for bacteria.
Toavoid this; apply oils 3-4 hours before shampooing.
4. Maintain a strict diet and exercise.
5. Regulate any hormone imbalances.
Written by :
Dr. Arthee Alam
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