Hair

Hair Dandruff

HAIR DANDRUFF is the shedding of dead skin cells from the scalp. DANDRUFF is a common scalp disorder affecting almost half of the population at the post-pubertal age and of any gender and ethnicity. It often causes itching.

DANDRUFF can have several causes, including simple dry skin, Seborrheic Dermatitis, not cleaning/scrubbing often enough, shampooing too often, Psoriasis, Eczema, sensitivity to hair care products, or a yeast-like fungus. Dry skin is the most common cause of flaking dandruff.

Hair Dandruff is a common scalp condition characterized by the shedding of dead skin cells from the scalp. These flakes are often visible in the hair or on clothing, and the condition can cause itchiness, dryness, and irritation.
Although dandruff is not usually a serious health concern, it can be embarrassing and may indicate an underlying issue with scalp health.
Dandruff is a mild variant of seborrheic dermatitis.

Causes of Dandruff

Dandruff can occur for several reasons, often related to scalp conditions, lifestyle factors, or hygiene habits. Below are the most common causes:

1. Seborrheic Dermatitis
   This is a skin condition that affects the scalp, causing red, oily, and inflamed skin covered with yellowish or white flakes. It can spread to areas like the eyebrows, ears, and nasolabial folds. It is often caused by an overgrowth of Malassezia yeast, which thrives in oily areas of the skin.
2. Dry Scalp
   A dry scalp can lead to flaking. This happens when the scalp doesn’t retain enough moisture, often due to cold weather, harsh shampoos, or dehydration. Unlike dandruff caused by seborrheic dermatitis, flakes from a dry scalp are usually smaller and finer.
3. Malassezia Yeast Overgrowth
   Malassezia is a type of yeast naturally found on the scalp. In some individuals, an overgrowth of this yeast can lead to irritation and flaking. This is particularly common in people with seborrheic dermatitis.
4. Sensitivity to Hair Products (Contact Dermatitis)
   Certain hair care products, including shampoos, conditioners, or hair dyes, may cause an allergic reaction or irritation. This sensitivity can result in scalp redness, itching, and flaky skin.
5. Poor Diet
   Diets that are low in zinc, B vitamins, and certain healthy fats may lead to scalp issues, including dandruff. Nutrient deficiencies can affect the health of the scalp and hair follicles, leading to dryness and flaking.
6. Stress
   High levels of stress can trigger or worsen dandruff symptoms. Stress can influence hormone levels and exacerbate existing scalp conditions, contributing to scalp irritation and flakiness.

Symptoms of Dandruff

The symptoms of dandruff can vary depending on the severity and underlying cause but generally include:

• White or yellowish flakes on the scalp, hair, and shoulders.
• Itchy scalp, often worse in cold or dry weather.
• Redness or irritation around the hairline.
• Dry, flaky skin on the scalp or other oily areas of the body.
• Oily or greasy scalp, particularly in seborrheic dermatitis.

When to Seek Professional Help

If dandruff persists despite using over-the-counter treatments, or if you notice excessive redness, swelling, or painful patches on the scalp, it’s important to seek medical advice. A professional can help determine the underlying cause of your dandruff and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.