Is My Dandruff Severe?

Dandruff is itchy, flaky, and when it settles on your shoulders, you hope no one can see the evidence. Though you may feel like the only one in the room with this scalp problem, it’s actually common.

For a few flakes here and there, an over-the-counter dandruff shampoo will usually solve your problem. If it doesn’t, you might have a severe case causing your scalp to feel raw and crusty.

You’ll want to take a different approach for stubborn dandruff. You might need to see a dermatologist, a doctor who specializes in hair, skin, and nail problems.

What Is Dandruff Exactly?

The condition causes little white or yellow flakes of dry skin, which rub off easily, to form on your body.

The official name is “seborrheic dermatitis.” If it’s on a baby’s scalp, you might hear it called “cradle cap.”

It usually affects your scalp, but it can happen on other parts of your body. You can have it on your forehead, the sides of your nose, your ears, or your chest.

Dandruff Myths and Facts

Myths about dandruff may lead you to pick the wrong way to get rid of it.

For example, if you think of dandruff as a dry scalp problem, you may wash your hair less often to avoid drying out your scalp even more. In reality, not washing enough will only irritate your scalp and lead to more dandruff.

Here are some other dandruff myths and facts:

Myth: A dry scalp causes dandruff.

Fact: The reverse is true. If you have dandruff, it’s because your scalp is oily. Yeast that live on your scalp feast on the extra oil and release substances that irritate your skin. The flakes you see are dead skin cells shedding from your scalp.

Myth: Dandruff can lead to serious health problems.

Fact: It doesn’t do that. It also can’t make your hair fall out or cause baldness. But it can be itchy, unsightly, and embarrassing.

Myth: If you have dandruff, it means you’re dirty.

Fact: A lot of different things can cause dandruff, and none of them have anything to do with how clean you are. These include:

You’re more likely to get dandruff during your teenage years and after age 50. It’s also more common during winter when it’s cold and dry.

Treatment

The best thing you can do is to wash your hair every day or every other day with an over-the-counter anti-dandruff shampoo. Look for ingredients on the label such as:

• Ketoconazole (Nizoral A-D)
• Salicylic acid (DCL Salicylic Acid Shampoo, Dermasolve, Neutrogena T/Sal, Selsun Blue Naturals Dandruff Shampoo)
• Selenium sulfide (Exsel, Head and Shoulders Intensive Treatment Dandruff Shampoo, Selsun Blue)
• Sulfur (Some shampoos have sulfur as an ingredient in combination with other active ingredients.)
• Tar (Denorex Therapeutic Protection Dandruff Shampoo, Pentrax, Neutrogena T-Gel)
• Zinc pyrithione (Everyday Clean Dandruff Shampoo, Head and Shoulders Dandruff Shampoo, Suave Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, Selsun Blue Salon Ultimate Daily Care 2 in 1 Shampoo)

How to use these shampoos:Massage a small amount into your scalp, beard, or other affected area. Don’t scrub; you’ll only irritate your skin more. Leave the shampoo in for 5 to 10 minutes (check the bottle label for exact instructions), then rinse.

Try different shampoos until you find one that works for you. Rotate your anti-dandruff shampoo with a regular moisturizing one to avoid getting a dry scalp.

If you’ve tried over-the-counter dandruff shampoos and are still fighting flakes, see a dermatologist.

You may need a stronger, prescription-strength shampoo or another treatment.

How to Manage Severe Dandruff

Sometimes even the best anti-dandruff shampoo won’t get rid of a stubborn case.

Some things your dermatologist might try:

• They might prescribe a steroid cream, lotion, or solution that you rub onto the affected area once or twice daily.
• You may also need an antifungal medicine that you take by mouth or apply to your scalp or skin to get rid of the yeast.
• You may need to apply an oil-based medicine and leave it on your scalp overnight under a shower cap, if the problem is on your head.

Is It Dandruff — or Something Else?

Especially stubborn flakes may not be dandruff at all, but another skin condition that looks like it. Other scalp problems that can lead to flaking skin include:

Eczema: A group of conditions that irritate your skin and cause a scaly, itchy rash.

Psoriasis: A disease that leaves itchy, red, scaly patches on your skin, including your scalp.

Rosacea: Redness and irritation that usually affects the face but can also involve your scalp.

If your dandruff isn’t going away with treatment, or you have scalp problems such as redness, pain, crusting, or pus, call your doctor.

You can’t cure dandruff, but by finding the right treatment for your case, you can control it and live pretty much flake-free.

Dandruff – Diagnosis and treatment

Diagnosis

A doctor can often diagnose dandruff simply by looking at your hair and scalp.

Treatment

The itching and flaking of dandruff can almost always be controlled. For mild dandruff, first try regular cleansing with a gentle shampoo to reduce oil and skin cell buildup. If that doesn’t help, try a medicated dandruff shampoo. Some people can tolerate using a medicated shampoo two to three times a week, with regular shampooing on other days if needed. People with drier hair would benefit from less frequent shampooing and a moisturizing conditioner for the hair or scalp.

Hair and scalp products, both medicated and nonmedicated, are available as solutions, foams, gels, sprays, ointments and oils. You may need to try more than one product to find the routine that works for you. And you’ll likely need repeated or long-term treatment.

If you develop itching or stinging from any product, stop using it. If you develop an allergic reaction — such as a rash, hives or difficulty breathing — seek immediate medical attention.

Dandruff shampoos are classified according to the medication they contain. Some are available in stronger formulations by prescription.

• Pyrithione zinc shampoos (DermaZinc, Head & Shoulders, others). These contain the antibacterial and antifungal agent zinc pyrithione.
• Tar-based shampoos (Neutrogena T/Gel, Scalp 18 Coal Tar Shampoo, others). Coal tar slows how quickly skin cells on your scalp die and flake off. If you have light-colored hair, this type of shampoo may cause discoloration. It can also make the scalp more sensitive to sunlight.
• Shampoos containing salicylic acid (Jason Dandruff Relief Treatment Shampoo, Baker P&S, others). These products help eliminate scaling.
• Selenium sulfide shampoos (Head & Shoulders Intensive, Selsun Blue, others). These contain an antifungal agent. Use these products as directed and rinse well after shampooing, as they can discolor the hair and scalp.
• Ketoconazole shampoos (Nizoral Anti-Dandruff). This shampoo is intended to kill dandruff-causing fungi that live on your scalp.
• Fluocinolone shampoos (Capex, Derma-Smoothe/FS, others). These products contain a corticosteroid to help control itching, flaking and irritation.

If one type of shampoo works for a time and then seems to lose its effectiveness, try alternating between two types of dandruff shampoos. Once your dandruff is under control, try using the medicated shampoo less frequently for maintenance and prevention.

Read and follow the directions on each bottle of shampoo you try. Some products need to be left on for a few minutes, while others need to be rinsed off quickly.

If you’ve used medicated shampoo regularly for several weeks and still have dandruff, talk to your doctor or dermatologist. You may need a prescription-strength shampoo or a steroid lotion.

Lifestyle and home remedies

You can take steps to reduce your risk of developing dandruff or to control it:

• Learn to manage stress. Stress affects your overall health, making you susceptible to a number of conditions and diseases. It can even help trigger dandruff or worsen existing symptoms.
• Eat a healthy diet. A diet that provides enough zinc, B vitamins and certain types of fats may help prevent dandruff.
• Develop a hair and scalp care routine that suits you. If you tend to have an oily scalp, daily shampooing may help prevent dandruff. Gently massage your scalp to loosen flakes. Rinse thoroughly. If your hair tends to be dry and your scalp is sensitive, shampoo less frequently and condition your scalp between washings (Design Essentials, Melanin Haircare, ScalpBliss).
• Get a little sun. Sunlight may be good for controlling dandruff. But because exposure to ultraviolet light damages your skin and increases your risk of skin cancer, don’t sunbathe. Instead, just spend a little time outdoors. And be sure to wear sunscreen on your face and body.
• Limit hair-styling products. Hair-styling products can build up on your hair and scalp, making them oilier.

Alternative medicine

Tea tree oil is included in a number of shampoos, but there is no strong evidence to support its use for dandruff control. It comes from the leaves of the Australian tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) and has been used for centuries as an antiseptic, antibiotic and antifungal agent. The oil may cause allergic reactions in some people.

Mayo Clinic Minute: Tips for dealing with dandruff

Show transcript for video Mayo Clinic Minute: Tips for dealing with dandruff

“When someone visits a primary care provider or a dermatologist regarding dandruff, we need to do an examination of the scalp.”

Mayo Clinic dermatologist, Dr. Dawn Davis says there are two common causes for dandruff flakes on the scalp.

“We can differentiate whether the patient has overactive oil glands, simply dryness and dehydration causing scaling and flaking, or a combination thereof. “

You can treat both types of dandruff with special shampoos that have active ingredients designed to reduce irritation and rehydrate the scalp.

“Be careful and aware how you use your shampoo.” Dr. Davis says most dandruff shampoos need to be left on the scalp for more than five minutes.

“Shampoo has a precipitate that once applied takes several minutes to separate itself out to allow it to remain on the skin to become active.”

And Dr. Davis says dandruff fighting routines can become less effective over time, so for best results she recommends rotating among up to three shampoos with different active ingredients.”

For the Mayo Clinic News Network, I’m Jeff Olson.

Preparing for your appointment

You don’t need any special preparations for an appointment to diagnose dandruff. Your doctor will likely be able to diagnose your dandruff simply by looking at your scalp and skin. If you’ve started using any new hair care products, bring the bottles with you to your appointment or be prepared to tell your doctor about them, which help in determining the cause of your dandruff.

Sept. 21, 2021

6 best home remedies and products

There are enough problems to deal with on a daily basis when it comes to your hair. Is it too greasy? Too dry? Too flat? Too voluminous? Too curly? Too straight?

Then, of course, there’s always the dreaded dandruff. It’s hard to miss the small, white flakes that linger on your scalp. But while the condition is very common, it also can be hard to treat.

If you’re attempting to figure out how to get rid of dandruff, look no further. We spoke to experts to help narrow down the best ways to treat the pesky problem.

What is dandruff?

Dandruff is a common condition that affects the scalp. It causes the skin of the scalp to become itchy followed by flakes of dead skin. It typically starts around puberty and starts to subside around the age of 50, according to the Journal of Clinical and Investigative Dermatology.

The severity of dandruff can differ from case to case. Some cases are less aggressive and are easy to treat while others might require a medicated approach to treatment.

Your skin continually replaces itself and old cells are pushed outward where they die and flake off. Usually, these flakes are small and unnoticeable. In the case of those with dandruff, the skin cells can begin to replace more rapidly than the normal cycle. Therefore, the skin sheds in oily, larger clumps that can become visible.

What causes dandruff?

“The most common cause of dandruff is seborrheic dermatitis or sometimes called seborrhea,” said Julie Matsushima, a licensed medical esthetician.

Dry skin, sensitivity to specific hair products and skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis can make you more susceptible to having dandruff. It is also believed that the common fungus malassezia can trigger dandruff.

“Malassezia increases skin cell growth and these extra skin cells die and flake off,” Matsushima explained.

Dandruff can also worsen when you’re stressed or sick. Cold, dry winters can also trigger dandruff or increase its severity. Diet plays its role, as deficiency in vitamin B or zinc can lead to dandruff as well, according to Matsushima.

Believe it or not, hygiene can also influence your chances of dealing with dandruff.

“The longer you go in between shampooing, the flakier your scalp can get,” said Dr. Alan Parks, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of DermWarehouse.

So if you’re tempted to try the “no poo” movement, keep in mind that washing your hair less frequently can unintentionally cause the oils and skin cells on your scalp to collect, which can cause visible dandruff.

Shampooing too often, on the other hand, can also dry out your scalp and lead to dandruff, Parks said, so it’s all about finding that balance that keeps your hair and scalp moisturized and flake-free.

Though anyone can be susceptible to dandruff, it actually appears more frequently in males than females.

What are the signs of dandruff?

One of the main signs of dandruff is an itchy scalp. Red and greasy patches can also appear, as well as a tingly feeling on the skin. You may also feel dryness, tightness or irritation on your scalp.

“Overall, dandruff lessens during warmer weather, Matsushima said. “Dandruff can also make the scalp become swollen or inflamed. You should also seek medical attention should this occur.”

You can also experience dandruff in your eyebrows, chest hair, groin area and armpits.

What are the best dandruff shampoos to get rid of it fast?

Matsushima said that products with pyrithizone zinc are popular for treating dandruff because it contains anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. She also recommended coal-based shampoos (to slow down the growth of skin cells), selenium sulfide shampoos (to slow skin cell growth and reduce malassezia) and salicylic acid (to exfoliate the scalp).

Since no one hair solution will immediately cure your dandruff, it’s smart to switch things up every once in a while to keep your flakes at bay, according to Dr. Parks: “It’s good to rotate between different ingredients and not use the same all the time, otherwise you’ll build up a tolerance to the ingredient.”

While you may need to experiment with different shampoos to find the perfect match, these are popular products to help with the milder cases of dandruff.

Best dandruff treatments and shampoos

1. Nizoral A-D Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

This shampoo controls flaking and itching associated with dandruff.

2. Head and Shoulders Classic Clean 2-in-1 Anti-Dandruff Shampoo and Conditioner

This shampoo-and-conditioner combo fights flaky skin and keeps the scalp and roots conditioned.

3. Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo

This shampoo contains coal tar and helps control an itchy, flaky scalp.

4. DHS Zinc Shampoo

This shampoo cleanses and conditions the scalp and maintains the skin’s pH level to keep irritation at bay.

5. Philip B Anti-Flake II Relief Shampoo

This shampoo uses oleosomes to keep your hair moisturized while also eliminating itching and flaking. It’s also color and keratin safe!

6. Sachajuan Scalp Shampoo

This shampoo removes dandruff while soothing an irritated scalp to ensure a healthy moisture balance.

7. Redken Dandruff Control Shampoo

This shampoo contains pyrithione zinc to cleanse your hair while also leaving it light and shiny.

8. Oribe Serene Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

This shampoo is gentle yet contains salicylic acid to prevent dandruff and soothe a dry, itchy scalp.

9. Philip Kingsley Flaky Scalp Shampoo

This shampoo works on coarse or fine hair and helps relieve the scalp of flaking and build-up.

10. Christophe Robin Purifying Shampoo

This is a purifying shampoo that eliminates dandruff, regulates excess sebum to avoid oily roots and also soothes itchiness.

11. Ouai Detox Shampoo

This cleansing shampoo is formulated with apple cider vinegar and keratin, which work together to cleanse and strengthen the hair. It’s suitable for straight, wavy, curly and coily hair.

12. SheaMoisture African Black Soap Deep Cleansing Shampoo

Dry scalps will be treated to a deep yet gentle cleanse with this shampoo, which uses key ingredients African black soap, tea tree oil and bamboo charcoal to eliminate built-up dirt and excess oil on natural hair.

What are the best home remedies for dandruff?

There are also a few things you can do yourself if the specialty shampoos just aren’t cutting it. Matsushima noted that if you try home remedies for two weeks or more without seeing any changes, you should seek professional medical advice.

• Shampoo more often. This can help reduce the oils on your scalp.
• Use green tea. Combine green tea, peppermint essential oil and white vinegar and massage it on your scalp for five minutes. Then, rinse it off with a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner. Green tea and peppermint essential oil have antioxidants and anti-microbial properties which can promote a healthy scalp and also condition your hair so it is not as dry or irritated.
• Use apple cider vinegar. Dilute the vinegar with equal parts of water. Use this mixture as a substitute for your shampoo. Apple cider vinegar can kill the fungus that may cause dandruff. It provides relief from itchiness and can help subside the dandruff.
• Have a coconut oil massage: Combine five to 10 drops of tea tree oil with 5 tablespoons of coconut oil. Apply the mixture to your scalp at night and then rinse it off in the morning or if you’re pressed for time, just leave it on for 30 minutes and then rinse it off. Coconut oil also fights against fungi, which can help eliminate the dandruff. Tea tree oil will help bring the shine back to your hair.
• Use lemon juice. Massage 2 tablespoons of lemon juice onto your scalp and let it sit for a minute. Then, mix 1 teaspoon of lemon juice and 1 cup of water. Rinse your hair with the mixture. Repeat this right before your daily shower for the best results. Fresh lemon juice contains acids that help break down the fungus that can cause dandruff. It also does not have harsh chemicals in it, which could harm your scalp.
• Use baking soda. Wet your hair and sprinkle 1 tablespoon of baking soda along your scalp. Leave it on for a minute and wash it off. You can also shampoo after to thoroughly rinse it off. Baking soda fights against overactive fungi and can help exfoliate the skin on your scalp without irritating it. Baking soda also soaks up excess oil.

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This article originally published on Nov. 21, 2018.

How to Get Rid of Dandruff

Photo: globalmoments/Getty Images/iStockphoto

thecut.com/_components/clay-paragraph/instances/ambrose-ac5ba0823222bd4f1fb4eb9ce8e40244-0-0-1@published” data-word-count=”42″>Regardless of the season, a flaky scalp can be a pesky problem. How do you get rid of dandruff? Below, some tips and tricks for how to address your head case — so that you can finally start wearing true black again.

Dandruff is caused by a fungus called malassezia, according to Dr. Zenovia Gabriel of Zena Medical. Malassezia lives naturally on the skin for many people, but an overgrowth or imbalance of the fungus leads to dandruff. Our bodies are constantly shedding dead skin cells, but an increase in malassezia triggers the body to produce and shed skin cells faster and at a detrimental rate. Malassezia overgrowth can be caused by many things including age, hormones, or stress.

thecut.com/_components/clay-paragraph/instances/cktabtkfj00163g6dfvf4yg97@published” data-word-count=”89″>Dr. Jessica Weiser of New York Dermatology Group explains that dandruff, which presents itself as white flakes, is a mild and common form of seborrheic dermatitis. You can get it behind the ears, eyebrows, or even in folds of the face. It can be red, flaky, itchy, or a combination of all those factors. (It’s different from psoriasis, which also can look like flakes — but those will appear like “thicker pink or red plaques” with “silver-white scales” on close examination. Go to a dermatologist if you aren’t sure.)

Much like olive-oil bread, dandruff is created by the mixture of oil and yeast (the malassezia). We all have some yeast on our bodies, explains Dr. Joshua Zeichner, director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital’s Department of Dermatology, and the amount varies depending on a blend of genetics and external and internal factors.

So how do you get rid of it? You treat the oil and the yeast, and prevent its ability to multiply. Read on.

According to Dr. Macrene Alexiades-Armenakas, a New York–based dermatologist, poor nutrition can lead to dandruff. “High-carb foods can result in the buildup of glycogen in the skin, which yeast feeds on.” Dr. Zeichner agrees: “Although there’s little data, the same foods that promote acne may exacerbate dandruff.” Sugary foods and dairy stimulate the sebaceous glands, which produce more oil on the skin. So unfortunately, you might need to try laying off the carbs and sugars if you’re prone to dandruff.

thecut.com/_components/clay-paragraph/instances/ambrose-ac5ba0823222bd4f1fb4eb9ce8e40244-6-0-0@published” data-word-count=”34″>We live in the peak age of dry shampoo, when you can extend your blowout longer than the life of your last succulent. This is partially contributing to the whiteout situation on your scalp.

“There’s this concept now that you need to let natural oils sit longer on your scalp, but that can add to the problem,” Elizabeth Cunnane-Phillips, a trichologist at the Philip Kingsley Trichological Clinic, explains. Yeast levels rise when there is more oil on skin. Dr. Weiser adds, “Oils and dead skin cells further accumulate as a result of infrequent hair washing. Patients prone to dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis should regularly wash hair a few times a week at minimum to reduce build up.”

thecut.com/_components/clay-paragraph/instances/ambrose-ac5ba0823222bd4f1fb4eb9ce8e40244-7-0-0@published” data-word-count=”104″>Yes, this is a thing. Much like exfoliating your skin, exfoliating your scalp gently lifts the top layer of dry skin. Scalp exfoliators typically remove dead skin with either small amounts of salicylic acid (more commonly found in acne products), or granules that dissolve. Dr. Weiser explains that the latter are “very helpful at breaking down the dead skin cells that accumulate on the scalp and lead to flaking.” Dr. Gabriel recommends using an exfoliating hair scrub on wet, shampooed hair twice a week, and being certain to read the directions so you leave it on the hair for the right length of time.

All of the experts interviewed for this article believe that a specialized dandruff shampoo is the most effective and quickest way to treat dandruff. They can be obtained via prescription (for stronger stuff) or over-the-counter and contain zinc or sulfur, which can reduce yeast populations. While dandruff shampoos aren’t beautiful, sensorial washing experiences, gone are the days of smelly Selsun Blue. They haven’t become chic, but their smell and packaging no longer make them repellent.

Here are some of the best dandruff shampoos. If you have simple dryness and flaking, Dr. Weiser says that shampoos with salicylic acid should be enough. If you have redness and irritation, try the ones with zinc pyrithione (the same stuff in Head and Shoulders), ketoconazole and selenium sulfide.

“Oil-based treatments can help to balance some of the scalp’s excessive oil production,” says Dr. Weiser. “Applying oils to the scalp will help draw oils from it and remove them. It’s the classic law of attraction, where like substances attract each other.” You can try heating up the only oil celebrities are unafraid of, coconut oil, in a microwave and gently applying it to your head. Be careful not to make the oil too hot, as doing so increases the risk of burning your scalp. But Dr. Gabriel cautions that it won’t be a cure-all. “While helpful for combatting dryness, hot oil treatments alone cannot treat dandruff caused by the growth of fungus.”

Dr. Internet suggests using apple-cider vinegar as a home remedy for many things and a base for many products, among them a toner, a hot-water salve, and a treatment for dandruff. Dermatologists are a bit divided on this. Dr. Zeichner says it could potentially help: “Apple-cider vinegar has anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties to lower levels of yeast on the skin and calm inflammation. ” If you have a mild case of dandruff, Dr. Gabriel suggests combining half a cup of apple cider vinegar with one and a half cups of cool water. Pour the mixture onto the hair in the shower after shampooing and rinse out.

But Dr. Weiser says: “I do not generally support the use of apple-cider vinegar for dandruff,” as there are more effective remedies available. Don’t go overboard with making your hair smell like salad dressing.

For the occasional dandruff attack, Dr. Gabriel has another home remedy. You can try adding a few drops of tea tree oil to your shampoo. “Tea tree oil contains anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the severity of dandruff. ”

Unfortunately, dandruff shampoos can dry out your hair, in addition to your scalp. To ensure this doesn’t happen, Dr. Weiser says that you should apply your special shampoo only to the scalp. “These shampoos and treatments should be applied directly to the scalp (not the hair) and massaged gently in place for at least five minutes with each application.” Make sure you don’t do it for less than five minutes, to give the active ingredients time to work.

It’s the white bear problem, but try not to think about scratching. It’s so itchy, I know, but scratching can exacerbate inflammation and irritation. Particularly if you have long, sharp nails, scratching can cause open scalp wounds which lead to infections. Dr. Weiser suggests doing a gentle massage only, saying that it “allows ingredients to penetrate the scalp.”

Try a ponytail or updo. Nathaniel Hawkins, a celebrity hairstylist for Adele and Heather Graham, also adds, “Resist the urge to itch. When your hair is down and has freedom of movement, the flakes will fall.”

An over-the-counter version of a prescription shampoo containing ketoconazole, an anti-fungal treatment. It is a big hit within the dandruff community on Reddit, and has a barely-there scent.

thecut.com/_components/clay-paragraph/instances/cji38f5g0003f3h60xn6hproh@published” data-word-count=”49″>It’s a scalp scrub and a shampoo, formulated by Catherine Deneuve’s colorist of 18 years, Christophe Robin. It contains sea-salt granules that exfoliate the scalp, then dissolve, meaning they won’t get stuck in the hair or dry it out. Plus, it has a pretty, sort of salty lemon smell.

This is also a scrub and a shampoo that smells intriguingly like Thin Mints. It’s chock full of things to soothe your scalp, including charcoal (rumored to draw out impurities), tea tree oil, peppermint oil, and spearmint oil. Small microfine bits of exfoliator help slough dead skin off the scalp, too.

thecut.com/_components/clay-paragraph/instances/cji38nw8v004g3h606kuvlw74@published” data-word-count=”32″>Unlike most scrubs, this one uses sugar instead of salt to exfoliate. It also uses a bit of peppermint oil so it has a pleasing, cooling effect when you wash your hair.

This article was originally published June 6, 2018. It has been updated throughout. If you buy something through our links, New York may earn an affiliate commission.

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6 Causes of Dandruff and How to Treat Them

Dandruff is a common condition that can leave the scalp inflamed and itchy. This can cause white flakes dusted across the hair. Although dandruff is not serious from a medical standpoint, it can be embarrassing. One out of every five people suffers from this scalp condition. A gentle shampoo can treat milder cases, but symptoms may return over time. Cases also vary depending on the person and the sensitivity of his or her skin. Understanding the causes of dandruff is a crucial step to treating it. Once you have narrowed down what is irritating your scalp enough to cause dandruff, you can treat it much easier. Here are some of the most common causes of dandruff and what to do about them.

Irritated or oily skin

Most people assume that people only people with a dry scalp suffer from dandruff. While dry skin can be a culprit, it is not the only one.

An oily scalp results from increased production of sebum, the natural oil on your scalp. This can lead to dandruff-producing conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, which is the name of eczema on the scalp.

If you suffer from seborrheic dermatitis, you can contact your dermatologist for various forms of treatment. Your doctor may have you test out over-the-counter treatments like dandruff shampoos and nonprescription remedies first.

If these treatments do not help, your doctor can supply topical ointments and creams that control inflammation. There is also an anti-fungal medication in a pill form if no other options seem to work.

Shampooing

Some people believe that dandruff becomes worse the more often you shampoo, but that is not the case. In fact, not shampooing enough can make your dandruff worse. It causes more oil and dead skin to sit on top of your scalp, worsening dandruff. A medicated shampoo can help.

Over-the-counter shampoos are at most drug stores and grocery stores. Shampoos that contain ketoconazole, selenium sulfide or zinc are the best at treating dandruff. You can also use a dandruff conditioner if your hair is more brittle than normal.

Yeast-like fungus (Malassezia)

The major culprit of dandruff is a fungus called Malassezia. This fungus exists on most adults’ scalps. It feeds on the oils on your scalp, breaking it down and leaving oleic acid in its place. Many people are sensitive to oleic acid. The body then reacts to this acid by increasing the speed at which skin cells renew. It is an attempt to rid the scalp of the irritant and can cause flakes. The flakes are dead skin cells that visibly accumulate on the scalp or even shoulders.

This is why a dandruff shampoo and conditioner can be so useful in treating dandruff. Regular shampoos struggle to clean out all the buildup that causes dandruff. Medical shampoos have the proper ingredients to do that.

Dry skin

If dry skin is causing your dandruff, it can be easy to tell because other parts of your body will likely be dry as well. Dry skin can worsen throughout the year due to temperature, and the same goes for your scalp as well. However, a dry scalp that causes dandruff is treatable, similar to dry skin anywhere else. You simply need to moisturize, especially as you are shampooing more often.

There are several hair products out there catered to a dry scalp. A healing hair mask will certainly help add moisture to your scalp. However, it is important to pick a product that is free of irritants.

Haircare products

Much like any other part of your body, the scalp is susceptible to irritation and allergic reactions. If your scalp has a sensitivity to a hair care product, contact dermatitis can develop on the scalp. Contact dermatitis is the skin’s reaction to direct contact with an irritant, and it will likely result in dandruff. If you notice your scalp becomes irritated or sore after using certain products, it could be due to a sensitivity to the product.

It is crucial to stop using the product immediately. If you are not sure which product it is, you can use the process of elimination to determine which one it is.

Other skin conditions

Skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis can appear in the scalp as well, causing dandruff. Depending on the severity of these skin conditions, over-the-counter treatments may not cover it. Check with your dermatologist before trying anything new. The wrong products can lead to skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis worsening.

Treatment for dandruff in Columbia

Consult your dermatologist before attempting to treat these skin conditions with home remedies.

Although there is not a cure for dandruff, there are many treatments, no matter what your causes of dandruff are. Those treatments are available in most drug stores. Finding a treatment that works best for you and your scalp may include a lot of trial and error, but the result will be worth it. If all else fails, contact the dermatology specialists at Columbia Skin Clinic today about prescription options that can help with dandruff.

Dandruff | University Health Service

What is dandruff?

Dandruff (also known as seborrheic dermatitis) is the excess shedding of the top layer of the skin on the scalp, eyebrows or along the sides of the nose. This top layer of skin consists of dead cells, which protect the more fragile cells below. It is normal for these to be shed or rubbed off because the body is constantly producing new cells that simply move up to replace older ones. However, in dandruff, larger “scales” are shed at an increased rate.

Dandruff is primarily an aesthetic problem, which many people find unattractive or embarrassing. There is nothing medically serious about it. It will not lead to baldness, and it is not contagious. Itching may accompany dandruff. Usually hair follicles (roots of the hair shafts) do not become infected

Dandruff occurs as frequently in men as in women. It tends to increase in adolescence and young adulthood and decrease thereafter. Those who have acne or oily skin also tend to have more problems with dandruff.

Dandruff usually improves during the summer months, unless the weather is exceptionally hot and humid. Exposure to natural sunlight and a reduction in stress may help to control it.

Causes:

The cause of dandruff is unclear. It may be related to hormone production since it commonly begins during adolescence. It may be worsened by sensitivity to a yeast micro-organism which is normally on the scalp and skin.

Treatment:

Type of shampoo: Frequent washing with a regular shampoo is the most important treatment for dandruff. Use a regular shampoo to remove the scales as quickly as they form. In addition, the detergents in the shampoo will cause smaller, less visible flakes to shed. Some people mistakenly think that dandruff is caused by a dry scalp that will improve by shampooing infrequently or by applying oily substances to the scalp. This will actually aggravate the condition by preventing the shedding of cells.

If frequent washing with a regular shampoo does not control dandruff, try a dandruff shampoo. Choose products with effective ingredients (check labels):

• Very effective: Nizoral 1% (active ingredient: ketoconazole) is an antifungal shampoo that helps reduce the number of yeast micro-organisms present on the scalp
• Moderately effective: salicylic acid and sulfur (selenium sulfide)

Dermatologists recommend alternating a regular shampoo with an antifungal shampoo when dandruff appears. Dandruff shampoos may need to be used routinely to control dandruff. As symptoms improve, you may use dandruff shampoos less frequently.

Hair washing method is important in treating dandruff. Lather the hair twice and on the second lather, leave the shampoo on the hair for five minutes (or as directed on the shampoo label) before rinsing to give the medicine time to work properly.

The frequency of shampooing necessary to control dandruff varies from person to person. Some need to shampoo twice a week, others more frequently, even daily.

Many people forget that the scalp as well as the hair needs to be shampooed. Massaging the scalp to promote circulation may be beneficial, but scrubbing the scalp may be harmful.

Seek medical help if:

• Itching associated with dandruff increases
• Using a dandruff shampoo fails to control the problem adequately
• Inflammation (redness, swelling, severe scaling) occurs on the scalp or other parts of the body

For more information:

Schedule an Appointment: Appointments are required for most medical services, however options are available for urgent concerns.

Nurse Advice by Phone is available day and night, which may save a trip to UHS, the ER or an urgent care facility.

The UHS Pharmacy sells antifungal shampoo Nizoral 1% (active ingredient: ketoconazole).

What Causes Dandruff, and How Can I Get Rid of It Forever

Men’s Health

What causes dandruff?

Let’s start with what dandruff actually is. Head shedding is a chronic skin condition caused by the buildup of yeast around the base of your hair follicles, says Dr. Nicole Rogers, M.D., a professor of dermatology at Tulane University School of Medicine.

Yeast? So my head has a yeast infection? Like women get in their hoo-haas?

It’s not the same thing at all. Totally different fungus. The one on your scalp is caused by a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia globosa.

“The fungus feeds off the skin’s sebum and excretes end products onto the scalp which can irritate the scalp skin, resulting in dandruff and its symptoms like dryness, itch, and flaking,” says Dr. Rolanda J. Wilkerson, Ph.D., a principal scientist for Procter and Gamble. (That fungus is just one of The Gross Things Hanging Out On Your Head.)

Can dandruff be cured?

No, but it can be controlled. You’ll need to reserve a permanent space in your shower for specialized treatment shampoo containing zinc pyrithione or selenium sulfide. These anti-dandruff ingredients can help slow the rate at which your skin cells die and slough off.

When used daily and left in for at least five minutes, these shampoo treatments can rid a good portion of white flakes in about a month, says Dr. Rogers.

So I’ll be cured, right? If I can get the dandruff to stop, I’m cured.

Slow down, Tex. Assuming you have any flare-ups under control, you can switch back to regular shampoo as long as you continue to rotate in dandruff-control stuff at least once or twice a week, says Marie Jhin, M.D., a San Francisco dermatologist.

One caution: Whichever shampoo you use, Dr. Jhin recommends always rinsing thoroughly. Any leftover residue on your head could create a feeding ground for yeast and lead to a wicked scalp storm.

(Speaking of body hair that just makes our lives more difficult, have you ever wondered Should Men Shave Their Legs? We asked our readers and got some surprising opinions.)

Am I overwashing? Maybe I’m shampooing my hair too much. Could that be making it worse?

Most dermatological conditions are aggravated by excessive hair washing, but not dandruff. “This is the one thing that gets better with washing,” says Dr. Ilyse Lefkowicz, M.D., a New York-based dermatologist and clinical instructor in the Department of Dermatology at Mount Sinai Medical Center.

It’s not that dandruff makes your hair and scalp dirty. The fungus that resides on our scalps feeds off sebum—wash effectively and you’ll reduce the sebum, cutting off the food supply.

What does “wash effectively” mean? If I have dandruff, should I be washing it a different way?

Your dandruff shampoo isn’t just made for your hair. The real work its doing is on your scalp, so you need to get the shampoo directly on the scalp and clean the skin there. “Finger contact with scalp is important,” says Dr. Lefkowicz, who suggests a gentle massage.

It doesn’t take long, either. “As long as it makes contact with your scalp, the technology will sink in,” she says.

Also, only use lukewarm water. Heat can irritate the scalp and encourages inflammation. “When you use very hot water, you are affecting the skin moisture barrier,” says Lefkowicz.

Are there environmental factors that could be causing my dandruff? Like if the temperature gets suddenly really hot or cold?

Where are you getting this stuff?

Hey, the internet says a lot of things.

“Extreme weather does not cause dandruff.,” says Wilkerson. “However, environmental changes can aggravate a dandruff skin condition in those who are already dandruff sufferers.” So yeah, if you’ve got dandruff and you go from a warm climate to a really cold one, it might make your dandruff worse. But the weather is not giving you dandruff.

So what the hell is then?!

It’s funny you should put it that way, with the unnecessary expletive and exclamation mark. A big factor in dandruff is actually stress.

What?! You have got to be freaking kidding me!

How ironic. You’re getting stressed out right now about dandruff, and that’s giving you dandruff.

Oh for the love of…!

It’s a vicious cycle, we know. Dr. Lefkowicz says that when she meets with patients who have especially aggressive dandruff, “My first question is ‘What’s going on?’ Is there a stressful event that’s triggering this reaction?” Any time your immune system is altered, it can provoke dandruff flare-ups.

So you’re saying calm down?

Yes. Use your dandruff shampoo, use it correctly, and consult these 52 Ways to Control and Conquer Stress. You’ll be fine.

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90,000 DANDRUFF: CURE NOT RINSE

Dandruff is an extremely unpleasant attack. And therefore it is doubly incomprehensible why many people are so frivolous about her. We are afraid of getting infected with nail fungus, we run to the doctor if we find spots on the body and hands, but for years we have not been treated for dandruff, only washing it off with “store” shampoos. Perhaps from ignorance of a simple truth: in 90% of cases, dandruff is an external symptom of a fungus on the scalp. And like any fungus, dandruff must be treated.

Everyone noticed – “store” shampoos for dandruff only exfoliate skin flakes. This has a temporary effect – the dandruff seems to have receded. But not for long. If the conventional “shampoo No. 1 for dandruff” got rid of it seriously, this problem would not be so everlastingly relevant. And the thing is that they don’t go to the store for medicine – here you need to contact the pharmacy specialists.

It should be remembered that a pharmacy can also sell different products – both medicinal and purely cosmetic .In order not just to temporarily wash off dandruff, but to act on its cause, you will need medications in the form of shampoo . Their use is no different from conventional care products – apply to the head and lather. The peculiarity is different: you need to make sure that the product gets plentifully on the scalp, and not just on the hair, then wait 5 minutes, and only then rinse off. These medicated shampoos contain an active ingredient – ketoconazole .

The main function of ketoconazole is to destroy the types of fungi that cause mycoses and scalp lesions. This is due to the destruction of the protective shell of pathogenic microorganisms. The drug is also aimed at eliminating the symptoms of fungal infections. These include itching, excessive dryness of the skin, disruption of the sebaceous glands, as well as irritation and increased sensitivity of the skin. An additional effect of such medicated shampoos: the hair becomes healthy and shiny, it looks more vibrant and strong.

In shampoos, usually the concentration of ketoconazole does not exceed 2%, this is exactly the content that effectively fights the fungus. Also, dermatologists advise choosing among such shampoos those that give good lather and also contain a rinse aid. The use of other products after the therapeutic shampoo is undesirable – this reduces the therapeutic effect of the drug.

The described qualities are possessed by pharmaceutical drugs “ Perhotal “, which have already proven their effectiveness.

According to the content of ketoconazole, they differ in content: 1% – for prevention (if the problem with dandruff has already been resolved), in order to avoid relapse, and 2% – for active and rapid treatment. The drug is available in 25 ml, 60 ml and 100 ml vials.

How to be treated at home

Dandruff is not just a cosmetic defect. Treatment with a trichologist will help get rid of it. But you can try an effective, budgetary and simple folk remedy.

Among the causes of dandruff is a violation of the fat balance of the scalp. It is caused by hormonal disorders and unbalanced nutrition.

Everything can start with itching. Then peeling is added to it. With problems with sebaceous secretions, oily dandruff appears. At the same time, the person does not leave the feeling that the head is dirty all the time.

Salt will be very effective in this case. Seafood or food iodized is an excellent antiseptic and a source of useful minerals.It gently cleanses the scalp, stimulates blood circulation, and absorbs excess sebum.

It is better to take finely ground salt. This will be enough for a delicate scalp massage, which will accelerate the cell regeneration processes. The procedure can be repeated once or twice a week. Apply the powder to the partings and gently massage the skin. 10-20 minutes is enough for the salt to show all its beneficial properties.

If the hair is dry, the salt should be mixed with olive oil.Essential oils of eucalyptus, rosemary, tea tree and others can enhance the healing effect.

Anti-dandruff masks with salt have a milder effect. They are preferable for those with sensitive skin and are easier to adapt to their hair type.

Oily hair is impregnated with a salt extract of oak bark. You can also add bodyagi powder, activated carbon, or lemon juice. Dry hair is treated with a salt mask based on vegetable oil or sour cream.Weakened – with a decoction of birch leaves and nettle or burdock root.

The mask is applied to clean, damp hair. The head is not wrapped. After half an hour, wash off with water or shampoo if there were fatty components in the composition.

causes of occurrence, under what diseases it occurs, diagnosis and treatment methods

IMPORTANT!

The information in this section cannot be used for self-diagnosis and self-medication.In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests. For a diagnosis and correct treatment, you should contact your doctor.

Small or large flakes on the scalp are called dandruff. With a significant amount, they crumble on clothes, causing disgust among others. It is believed that dandruff is the result of poor personal hygiene. However, in most cases, the increased flaking of the skin is caused by a disease.

Varieties

The scales can be small and peel off easily. Plates may form that rise above the scalp and flake off when scratched. Grayish-white scaling foci may occur, located not only on the scalp, but also passing to the skin of the face, neck and trunk.

Possible causes

Normally, the top layer of the skin (epidermis) is systematically renewed. In this case, the dying cells slough off, which happens almost imperceptibly.It is easy to determine the condition of the scalp: with light scratching, a small amount of scales remains under the nails. However, when exposed to unfavorable factors or the development of a disease, the number of dead cells can increase and form clusters. Based on the appearance of the scales, their size and localization, it is possible to roughly establish the causes of peeling of the skin.

Dandruff is not always a symptom of a condition. In some cases, it is caused by a negative effect on the skin: this is an incorrectly selected shampoo, a disturbed diet, sudden changes in ambient temperature.

The provoking factors can also be stress, direct exposure to sunlight, the use of aggressive agents for perm and hair dyeing. In these cases, careful care and the elimination of harmful factors normalize the skin condition, which contributes to the disappearance of dandruff.

Doctors consider dandruff to be a harbinger of seborrheic dermatitis , which can develop under the influence of a number of factors. With seborrheic dermatitis, the formation of dandruff is caused by pathological processes: disruption of the sebaceous glands, accelerated death of epidermal cells and the reproduction of microorganisms.

The scalp contains a large number of sebaceous glands. Changes in their function can lead to either insufficient or excessive production of sebum.

Fat deficiency is caused by an increase in the viscosity of the secretion of the sebaceous glands and the difficulty of its passage through the ducts of the gland.

At the same time, the scalp dries up, there is a feeling of tightness, itching, burning. Hair becomes dry and brittle, and the ends split.

Even if you rarely wash your hair, dandruff does not disappear.These are the characteristic features of dry seborrhea . Lesions with increased desquamation are located in greater numbers along the hairline. Scales can be found on the eyebrows, eyelashes, beard and mustache. The color of the scales varies from white to yellow. Seborrheic dermatitis worsens in winter, which is facilitated by significant fluctuations in air temperature and dry skin. With the progression of the disease, pink spots appear on the skin, covered with white scales.

With oily seborrhea , sebum production increases, and dead cells stick together with fat to form conglomerates.In these clusters, microscopic fungi multiply, which normally live on the scalp in small quantities. By consuming the components of sebum, fungi release substances that irritate the skin, causing inflammation and flaking.

Heat and high humidity also contribute to the growth of fungi. With active scratching, crusts form on the damaged skin, under which pathogenic bacteria multiply.

Disruption of the sebaceous glands is facilitated by a change in hormonal levels in adolescence, pregnancy or postmenopausal women.Increased production of testosterone, which largely determines the work of the sebaceous glands, causes a greater prevalence of seborrhea in men. A decrease in the immune status is also accompanied by an increase in morbidity. It has been proven that in HIV-infected patients, seborrhea occurs 4-10 times more often than in people with normal immunity. It is noted that seborrheic dermatitis is activated when the nervous system is damaged. In patients with paralysis, Parkinson’s disease, this disease is widespread and difficult to treat.

Another reason for the appearance of dandruff is possible – psoriasis . Psoriasis is a systemic disease, which is based on a violation of the immune status.

In this case, leukocytes, which usually destroy foreign agents, begin to mistakenly attack their own tissues, causing inflammation.

Such a failure can occur after a streptococcal infection, trauma, due to inflammatory bowel disease and dysbiosis. Psoriasis usually appears between the ages of 15 and 45, but it can also occur in very young children from 4 months of age.

It has been established that the early onset of the disease is accompanied by a more severe course and leads to damage not only to the skin, but also to the joints, heart, and blood vessels.

In milder forms of psoriasis, only the skin is affected, usually on exposed areas of the body and scalp. Well-defined, bright pink eruptions are covered with whitish scales. Small foci of inflammation can coalesce, forming plaques, also covered with easily obeying scales. In summer, the rash becomes less, and sometimes they disappear completely, but pigmentation remains in their place.In the cold season, with a decrease in immunity, stress, the symptoms of psoriasis may reappear.

Diagnostics and examination

If you cannot cope with dandruff by changing the shampoo, it is recommended to find out the reasons for its appearance by contacting a specialist – a dermatologist or a trichologist. The doctor determines the size of the scales, examines the skin (discoloration, the presence of plaques, scratching), which makes it possible to make a preliminary diagnosis. In addition to the examination, a biochemical blood test should be performed, changes in the results of which may indicate a malfunction of the gastrointestinal tract.

how to effectively cure and get rid of

Full description

There is no single cause for the sudden onset of dandruff, so treatment is not universal. It is necessary to choose the most optimal solution to the problem, taking into account the age category, the causes of the appearance of white and yellow lamellar scales, as well as contraindications for the child’s body.

The root causes of dandruff in newborns can be an improperly formulated and irregular diet of the mother, the use of fatty, fried, spicy and salty foods in large quantities, as well as the use of alcohol and tobacco products.

Overheating and constant wearing of a headgear can also provoke an accelerated death of epidermal cells in a baby, especially if the cap is made of synthetic fabric.

In infants, the protective properties of the immune system are usually still rather poorly developed and the physiological processes inside the sebaceous glands are impaired, which is the impetus for dandruff. Since this condition is temporary, special treatment and adjustment by a doctor is not required; up to 6 months, the work of the oil seals stabilizes by itself.
At the age of 3-4 to 6 years, children are especially susceptible to infection with parasitic organisms, for example, ticks and lice, since this period for children is characterized by the presence of many outdoor games with frequent bodily contact and touch, the child’s lack of personal hygiene skills, which leads to infections and parasitic diseases. One of the symptoms of the development of pathologies on the surface of the epidermis or inside the body is an accelerated cycle of development of skin cells, which prematurely die off and form white-yellow plates on the outer layer of the skin.

A child between the ages of 7 and 9 can often develop dermatological conditions such as dermatitis, eczema or psoriasis. The appearance of dandruff indicates that there is a focus of infection in the child’s body, which must be promptly identified and eliminated. This task must be entrusted to a dermatologist, who will help not only to effectively detect the source of pathology, but also make up the most effective treatment complex in accordance with the body’s contraindications and age restriction.

The appearance of white or yellow scales on the scalp can also be a negative reaction to the action of certain components in the composition of skin or hair care products. The composition of shampoos, balms and masks should not contain alcohol, parabens and silicones, as well as sodium lauryl sulfate, which most often provoke accelerated death and accumulation of skin cells on the surface of the epidermis.

Since children under the age of 12-14 have reduced immunity, this period is characterized by the frequent occurrence of allergic reactions in response to plant pollen, certain medications of rather aggressive effects, food and excessively polluted air.Allergic reactions are often accompanied by the appearance of dandruff on the scalp, therefore, for a more effective elimination of white scales, it is necessary first of all to exclude the factors that provoke their appearance.

Disturbed functioning of the endocrine, digestive and urinary systems also contribute to an accelerated rate of development of skin cells, which leads to their accumulation on the skin. In this case, dandruff is only a symptom of the problems that have arisen, and parents, first of all, need to direct all resources to eliminate pathologies of the endocrine glands, gastrointestinal tract or excretory organs, since ignoring the disease can lead to more serious consequences than the appearance of white dandruff plates on the skin …

The accelerated rate of death of epidermal cells may be due to the multiplication of skin fungus, which normally does not show its presence in any way. A change in the nature of its activity to pathological can be caused by a stressful environment, a disturbed diet and sleep, an increased concentration of sebum on the surface of the epidermis, which becomes an impetus to the accelerated death of skin cells, which externally manifests itself as the appearance of dandruff.

Cardinal changes in the hormonal balance in puberty are dictated by the child’s entry into adulthood, which is certainly accompanied by a restructuring of the sebaceous glands and hair follicles.For adolescents, dandruff is often a real problem, since it occurs regularly and does not always depend on the negative influence of environmental factors, which means that its elimination will be a more difficult task.
Specialists subdivide dandruff treatment in children into general and local. Local treatment should be considered from the point of view of additional, rather than primary therapy, since in order to effectively remove dandruff, it is first necessary to create a base for effective treatment, and then make certain adjustments.

General treatment consists in establishing a sleep regimen, which for children should last at least 9 hours a day, including in the daily menu rich in vitamins food: greens, vegetables, fruits, fish, wholemeal bread, dried apricots, raisins and nuts. Parents should closely monitor the general state of health of the child and, in case of detection of diseases, immediately consult a doctor for their elimination. The child needs to be outdoors for several hours a day, it is best if it is a park with many conifers, since the needles contain phytoncides that kill most bacteria.

Topical treatment is the use of anti-dandruff shampoos and medicated shampoos if the cause of the white or yellow scales is the pathological activity of the skin fungus. Experts recommend to parents such anti-dandruff shampoos as Nizoral, Fridermzinc, Fridermdegot, Dermazole, Sulsena, Octopirox.

It is strictly not recommended to use scrub shampoos to eliminate dandruff in children, since their delicate skin is not used to the effects of such aggressive agents.Scrub shampoos are able to exfoliate the upper protective layer of the skin, which will entail the occurrence of bacterial and fungal infections due to the lack of a protective film.

Medical shampoos are advised by doctors to be used 2-3 times a week in a course of 1-2 months, then the shampoo should be replaced with a neutral product that will contain essential oils of lavender, tea tree or grape seed.

Medical shampoos should not be washed off immediately, the lathered foam is best left on the scalp for 5-10 minutes, so that the medicinal components in the composition have time to take effect.If during the first application of the shampoo the child has an allergic reaction in the form of red spots and itching, the product must be washed off immediately and not be used again. If an allergic reaction in a child was caused by too aggressive ingredients in the composition, the shampoo must be replaced with a milder agent.

An excellent remedy for eliminating dandruff in children are hydrolates – flavored floral or herbal waters based on plant and aromatic oils.The most effective hydrolates are jasmine, almond, sea buckthorn and chamomile.

As a prevention of dandruff in children, it is necessary to teach the child to basic hygiene rules, explain that his hygiene items, such as a comb, elastic band or hairpin, wardrobe items are purely personal things and should not be passed on to someone else.

Hats must be washed regularly and the comb must be disinfected, as they are often carriers of various infections.

Try to limit the number of stressful situations in the baby’s life, as long-term psycho-emotional stress can lead to a number of pathologies in the child’s body, including dandruff.
Monitor the regular intake of necessary vitamins and minerals with food into the child’s body, adjust, if necessary, his daily diet.

Always use only high-quality and proven hair and skin care products that are free of alcohol, parabens and dyes.

Compliance with the basic principles of prevention will save you the trouble of dealing with dandruff in your child.

What causes too much dandruff on the head, how to get rid of it?

Dandruff is a collection of loose particles from the scalp. This is not a cosmetic defect, but a symptom of seborrheic dermatitis, which occurs in 70% of people. The disease is provoked by fungal infections, metabolic disorders and the process of sebum formation.To get rid of dandruff, you first need to determine the cause of its appearance, and for this it is worth contacting a trichologist. Consider the most effective remedies to help solve the problem at home.

Causes of dandruff

In 85% of cases, severe dandruff is caused by the proliferation of the fungus Malassezia furfur in the scalp. This microorganism is activated by a decrease in general and local immunity under the influence of various factors: frequent shampooing, hormonal problems, digestive disorders, nervous exhaustion, deficiency of B vitamins, frequent hair dyeing, wearing a hat for a long time, using a hair dryer.It disrupts the work of the sebaceous glands, provokes peeling of the skin and the appearance of itching.

Dandruff is classified into several types:

• Bold. Appears due to excessively intense fat production. A thick layer of sebum on the scalp prevents dead cells from peeling off and sticks them together, which leads to the formation of yellow flakes. Hair with this form of seborrhea quickly turns oily.
• Dry.The disease occurs against the background of a lack of sebum. The skin becomes dehydrated, and its cells become keratinized and exfoliated faster. Small white dandruff forms on the head.

What to do?

Dandruff treatment is best done under the supervision of a trichologist or dermatologist. But in some cases, you can try to cope with the problem yourself.

General recommendations

First of all, limit the use of fatty, spicy, fried, sweet. Diversify your diet with foods rich in fiber, vitamins, especially group B. You can take vitamin complexes.

In the process of shampooing, you can do a 5-minute massage. It will improve local blood circulation and the supply of nutrients to the hair roots and skin. Water procedures should be carried out at least once every 5 days. Remember to wash your comb after each use and don’t blow dry your curls.

Attention! Since seborrhea is fungal in nature, change your pillowcase regularly and wash your hat.This will help avoid re-infection.

Shampoos

Antifungal shampoos can get rid of severe dandruff. They must contain antimycotic, anti-inflammatory and keratolytic components. The former include zinc, ketoconazole, pyrithione. The second group includes tar and ichthyol. The third is salicylic and lactic acid. Together, they neutralize fungi, relieve inflammation, stimulate the restoration of damaged tissues and accelerate skin exfoliation.

Cosmetology procedures

If dandruff flakes and interferes with leading a full life, you can resort to using hardware methods to combat seborrhea. These include:

• mesotherapy – injections of vitamin solutions and enzymes;
• cryomassage – impact on lesions with liquid nitrogen;
• ozone therapy – treatment of the scalp with ozone;
• darsonvalization – impact on foci with impulse current.

Folk remedies

Many herbs and some foods have antifungal properties. For seborrhea, you can make folk egg masks based on 1 tsp. lemon juice and honey, yolk and 10 ml of olive oil. Helps in the fight against seborrhea, and at the same time prevents hair loss, tar lotion, which is prepared in a water bath from 2 tbsp. l. crushed tar soap, 100 ml of vodka and 1 tbsp. l. castor oil. Rinse hair with nettle or orange peel infusion.

90,000 What is dandruff and how is it treated?

If you still think dandruff is just an aesthetic issue that can be ignored for years, then this article is for you. We will analyze the true causes of dandruff and talk about methods of treating this unpleasant disease.

Dandruff, or seborrheic dermatitis, is a scalp disorder that causes a number of symptoms:

• White scales falling off the hair – the very first symptom
• Itchy skin
• Scalp irritation and redness
• Red, sore spots on the forehead and near the ears

As the disease progresses, the symptoms become more pronounced and cause a lot of inconvenience to the person.Unfortunately, the longer you ignore seborrheic dermatitis, the more difficult it is to treat, and we’ll explain why below.

What is seborrheic dermatitis (dandruff)?

Many do not know that seborrheic dermatitis is caused by a fungus of the genus Malassezia, which is present in the skin flora. Normally, in each person, about 45-50% of the scalp flora is represented by this fungus, but it does not cause inflammation. However, if, under the influence of various factors, the fungus begins to multiply uncontrollably, a person develops dandruff.

In those with seborrheic dermatitis, the amount of Malassezia fungus in the skin flora reaches 80%. At the same time, other components of the flora are simply dying out. Over time, the situation tends to worsen and leads to severe scalp lesions, severe hair loss and the development of allergies.

What causes dandruff?

• Improper care (use of products that cause an allergic reaction)
• Insufficient cleansing of the scalp (infrequent shampooing, improperly selected shampoo)
• Stress
• Hormonal changes (adolescence, postpartum period)
• Immune disorders

People with oily hair are most likely to suffer from dandruff, as oily scalp is an ideal breeding ground for Malassezia.In the process of vital activity, the fungus provokes inflammation, an allergic reaction and changes in the composition of sebum.

Therefore, it is important to wash your hair as it gets dirty, to monitor the condition of the scalp and not to follow dubious care recommendations.

How to identify the cause of dandruff?

First of all, consult a trichologist and talk about the problem. The sooner the better. It is definitely not worth waiting for the disease to interfere with your normal life.

• If dandruff has appeared after using new products – shampoos, masks, serums – then it is better to remove them from the care and look at the reaction of the scalp. It is possible that some of the components in the composition of the products cause you allergies. Especially if the scalp is dry. Check out the mild cleansing shampoos with sulfur, zinc, tar and tea tree essential oil.
• If dandruff appears regardless of the means used, then we are talking about a fungal infection of the scalp, which can only be cured with special antimycotic drugs.Your doctor will prescribe them.

How to beat dandruff?

• Assess your general condition. Do you have any allergic reactions? Have you recently experienced a stressful situation? Or have you had major lifestyle changes? Tell your doctor about this. It is possible that it will be necessary to involve an allergist, psychologist or endocrinologist in the treatment.
• Pay attention to care products – shampoos, masks, serums – with anti-inflammatory components – white willow bark, raspberry leaf, panthenol, zinc, sulfur, bisabolol.
• Avoid oils in scalp care. Oil masks and fatty serums become a breeding ground for the fungus. During the treatment, you will also have to give up natural oils in shampoos.
• Have a trichologist take an analysis for the content of the fungus Malassezia in the flora of the scalp. Increased indicators in the results indicate the need for antifungal treatment and normalization of the activity of the sebaceous glands.
• Use medications prescribed by your doctor (antimycotics, anti-inflammatory), shampoos and serums as recommended.Do not break the regime and do not practice self-medication – this can lead to an aggravation of the situation!
• Shampoo, prescribed by your doctor, apply to scalp for 3-4 minutes. Try not to apply it over the entire length of your hair, as the components in the shampoo can severely dry and thin your hair.
• Use shampoos, scrubs and scrubs for the scalp with an extract of oak bark, black tea, chestnut, camphor, menthol, tea tree and eucalyptus essential oils.

Dandruff is easy to underestimate.Many people simply brush white flakes off their clothes for months, hoping for the results from the advertised shampoos, thereby triggering the disease. It is impossible to defeat seborrheic dermatitis with conventional cosmetics! Therefore, we urge you to see a doctor, find out the cause of dandruff at the very beginning and get treatment so that you no longer have to worry about this ailment.

Be healthy!

Dandruff: Treat or Wash?

Dandruff on the scalp is easily detected: its presence is evidenced by white scales in the hair, so inappropriately crumbling on the shoulders.The image of a successful and healthy person is completely incompatible with such a “decoration”. Why does the process of natural getting rid of dandruff on the scalp turn into a change of shampoos, combs and mechanical sweeping of keratinized particles?

Causes of dandruff

One of the most common causes of dandruff and itching is a fungus with the Latin name Malassezia furfur, which affects the scalp. The factors that provoke its development include the following: improper hair hygiene, metabolic disorders, vitamin deficiency, weakening of the immune system, constant stress, etc.e. Under the influence of such conditions, adversely affecting the human body, the growth of the fungus begins, its amount increases significantly, the saprophytic form is transformed into a pathogenic one. Malassezia furfur can inhabit the scalp of any person from the moment of his birth, occupying up to 30-50% of the total volume of microorganisms in this area. If this percentage is exceeded, the fungus leads to the appearance of dandruff ¹ , which is the most characteristic symptom of seborrheic dermatitis. The lack of timely treatment contributes to a significant increase in the size of the scales.Soaked in sebum, they take on the appearance of white or yellowish plates. Due to constant itching and scratching, the scalp ulcerates, numerous erosions form on it.

Types of seborrheic dermatitis

Depending on the characteristics of sebum production, there are three forms of seborrheic dermatitis.

This type is manifested in the case of reduced sebum secretion. The scales are usually small and come off easily, so the hair looks like it is powdered.In most cases, dry dandruff is located mainly in the parietal and frontal regions of the head or over the entire surface of the skin, less often in the form of separate foci.

It occurs with excessive sebum secretion. The scales with such seborrhea are large, saturated with a greasy secretion, which is why they stick together, attach to the hair and peel off hard. Often, the excretory duct of the gland is clogged with rejected epithelial cells soaked in sebum. So there is a comedone (black eel) – a horny plug.If this element is squeezed, then a thick greasy mass is released. With this form of seborrhea, atheromas, cysts of the sebaceous glands, are quite common. In case of inflammation of the atheroma, its opening occurs, the release of pus and the formation of a scar. The appearance of oily dandruff and itching is possible, the hair with seborrhea begins to shine, looks like oiled, sticks together in strands.

In mixed form, the skin in the middle part of the face (forehead, nose, chin) is oily, and on the cheeks – dry; in the frontal and parietal regions, sebum secretion is sharply increased, and on the rest of the head, it is moderately expressed or reduced.

Dandruff Treatment

Treatment of seborrhea, accompanied by dry and oily dandruff, is primarily aimed at destroying the fungus that causes changes in the secretion and composition of sebum and provokes the development of pathological changes in the scalp. Treatment of seborrheic dermatitis includes methods that increase the body’s defenses and eliminate risk factors.

The success of treatment depends on identifying the cause of the disease, and only a specialist can correctly diagnose.That is why the first step in getting rid of flakes on the head is to visit a doctor – a dermatologist or trichologist (specialist in hair problems), who can give the correct answer to the question of how to treat dandruff. Treatment should not be postponed, as this can lead to the development of complications of seborrheic dermatitis such as baldness, pyoderma (boils, abscesses, etc.).

Antifungal therapy

This method is the basis of any treatment for dry and oily dandruff.For hair care, special shampoos are used containing the following active substances:

● zinc derivatives (for example zinc pyrithione) – they affect not only the fungus of the genus Malassezia (Malassezia), the most common causative agent of seborrhea, but also many bacteria, stopping their rapid development and helping to get rid of severe dandruff;
● derivatives of hydropyridone – they have a wide spectrum of action and antifungal effect;
● selenium disulfide – has an antifungal, exfoliating effect in the treatment of oily dandruff, controls the division of skin cells prone to seborrhea;
● ketoconazole – destroys fungi of the genus Malassezia (Malassezia) and Candida (Candida).By reducing the intensity of itching and flaking, ketoconazole significantly improves the condition of the hair and scalp in the first two weeks from the start of use.

A dandruff remedy that is always at hand>

What is important to know when treating dandruff

Additional measures and prevention

• Balanced nutrition. Dandruff and itching of the scalp as a symptom of it can be triggered by excessive consumption of spicy, fatty, salty and fried foods, alcohol, so dandruff treatment involves avoiding them.In addition to these products, it is worth excluding sweet and starchy foods from the diet, that is, foods rich in carbohydrates. Eating vegetables, fruits with a low fructose content, dairy and fermented milk products will help to successfully fight dandruff and itchy skin.

• Normalization of metabolism. For the treatment of dandruff and itchy skin, it is important to restore fat metabolism in the body. For these purposes, methionine can be prescribed – this substance reduces fat deposits in the liver, activates the work of certain enzymes and hormones, ascorbic and folic acids, and vitamin B12.

• Proper scalp care. If ​​you constantly use a hairdryer and fixing products when styling your hair, it is recommended to take a break at least once a week. If you need to get rid of dandruff as quickly as possible, it is recommended to massage the scalp (with hands or with a massage brush), which will help strengthen the hair follicles and activate blood circulation in the tissues. Many people are interested in the question of how to deal with dandruff in order to get rid of it once and for all.When starting treatment, it is necessary to understand that these measures can only be auxiliary, without an integrated approach it is impossible to solve the problem for a long time.

• Compliance with the rules of personal hygiene . Since dandruff on the hair is of fungal origin, it is necessary to limit the spread of the fungus as much as possible. To do this, all things in contact with hair – bedding, hats, combs, towels – should preferably be disinfected regularly.It is better to boil and iron the linen after each wash. The fungus that causes seborrhea is sensitive to the effects of acid, therefore, to get rid of dandruff and itching, it is useful to treat hats with a mild vinegar solution.

Physiotherapy

Cryomassage (exposure to liquid nitrogen) and darsonvalization of the scalp are widely used to treat dandruff and reduce itching, after which keratolytic (exfoliating) agents are rubbed in.

• Cryomassage. This treatment stimulates the alternate contraction and expansion of the blood vessels in the scalp, which activates blood flow and improves the nutrition of the hair and epidermis. Dandruff exfoliators are more effective when applied after cryomassing.
• Darsonvalization. This technique, as a physiotherapy method of treatment, helps to fight dandruff on the head and get rid of itching using a pulsed current of high frequency and voltage, but of low strength.It enters the skin through the comb electrode, which smoothly comb the hair. Such skin irritation reflexively affects blood circulation, vascular tone and metabolism. This additional treatment for dandruff has an anti-inflammatory, absorbent, cauterizing and soothing effect, reducing itching.

Strengthening the body’s strength.

People with weakened immune systems are at risk and are often prone to dry dandruff and itching.Measures aimed at increasing the body’s defenses include the prevention of colds, treatment of foci of chronic infection (sinusitis, tonsillitis, chronic bronchitis, etc.). Stress and psychoemotional stress should be avoided, they often contribute to dandruff and itching. Also, among other risk factors is smoking, so it is worth getting rid of this bad habit or, at least, minimizing the number of cigarettes smoked per day.

Compliance with personal hygiene rules

To avoid the appearance of dandruff on the head, carefully monitor the cleanliness of your hair and skin. Wash your hair with warm water as it gets dirty. Try to minimize the amount of hair care cosmetics. A doctor will help you to choose the right shampoo and other cosmetics for hair and scalp.

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