What is dandruff?

Dandruff is a common scalp condition characterized by flaking and itching of the skin on the scalp. It is caused by the overproduction of skin cells on the scalp, which then die and flake off. The condition can be caused by a variety of factors, including dry skin, irritation from hair products, certain medical conditions, and a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia that lives on the scalp. Dandruff can be treated with over-the-counter medicated shampoos, as well as by using gentle, non-irritating hair care products, and by maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle. In some cases, a prescription medication may be needed to treat more severe cases of dandruff.

What is dandruff caused by?

Dandruff is caused by a variety of factors, including:

1. Dry skin: When the skin on the scalp becomes too dry, it can lead to flaking and itching.
2. Irritation from hair products: Certain hair care products, such as hair dyes, gels, and sprays, can irritate the scalp and cause dandruff.
3. Yeast-like fungus: A fungus called Malassezia lives on the scalp of most people. It can cause an overproduction of skin cells, which can lead to flaking and itching.
4. Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis, can cause dandruff.
5. Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes that happen during adolescence, pregnancy, and menopause can cause an increase in the production of oil on the scalp, which can lead to dandruff.
6. Lack of hair hygiene: Not shampooing the hair enough can cause the accumulation of oils and dead skin cells on the scalp, leading to dandruff

What is dandruff made of?

Dandruff is made up of dead skin cells that have flaked off from the scalp. The process of skin cell turnover is natural and constant, but for some people, the cells may shed at a faster rate, resulting in larger and more visible flakes. The exact cause of this increased cell turnover is not fully understood, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of factors, including dry skin, irritation from hair products, a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia, and certain medical conditions. The yeast-like fungus Malassezia that lives on the scalp can feed on the oils in the scalp and produce oleic acid which can cause irritation and inflammation, which contributes to the formation of dandruff.

How to treat dandruff?

There are several ways to treat dandruff:

1. Medicated shampoos: Over-the-counter medicated shampoos containing ingredients such as pyrithione zinc, salicylic acid, selenium sulfide, or ketoconazole can help control dandruff.
2. Gentle hair care: Using gentle, non-irritating hair care products and avoiding those that contain harsh ingredients can help reduce the risk of dandruff.
3. Scalp massage: Gently massaging the scalp with your fingers or a brush can help increase circulation and remove dead skin cells.
4. Diet and lifestyle: Eating a healthy diet and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help support the overall health of the skin and scalp.
5. Avoid scratching: Scratching an itchy scalp can irritate the skin and make dandruff worse.
6. Keep your scalp clean: Regular shampooing, with mild and pH-balanced shampoo, can help remove excess oils and dead skin cells from the scalp.
7. Moisturize: Applying a light, non-greasy moisturizer to the scalp can help keep the skin from becoming too dry.

Types of dandruff

There are several different types of dandruff, which can be characterized by their symptoms and causes:

1. Dry dandruff: This type of dandruff is caused by dry skin on the scalp and is characterized by small, white flakes that can be easily brushed or combed out of the hair.
2. Oily dandruff: This type of dandruff is caused by an overproduction of oils on the scalp and is characterized by large, yellowish flakes that are difficult to remove.
3. Seborrheic dermatitis: This type of dandruff is caused by an overgrowth of the yeast-like fungus Malassezia on the scalp and is characterized by red, itchy, and scaly patches on the scalp and other areas of the body.
4. Psoriasis: This is a chronic autoimmune condition that can cause red, scaly patches on the scalp, which can also cause dandruff-like symptoms.
5. Eczema: This is a chronic skin condition that can cause red, itchy, and scaly patches on the scalp, which can also cause dandruff-like symptoms.
6. Drug-induced Dandruff: Certain medications like antibiotics, antidepressants, high blood pressure medications, and more can lead to dandruff.

Dandruff shampoo

Dandruff shampoos are over-the-counter medicated shampoos that are specifically formulated to help control dandruff. They contain active ingredients that target the underlying causes of dandruff, such as dry skin, an overgrowth of a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia, and certain medical conditions.

Common active ingredients found in dandruff shampoos include:

1. Pyrithione zinc: This ingredient helps to control the growth of the yeast-like fungus Malassezia on the scalp.
2. Salicylic acid: This ingredient helps to remove dead skin cells from the scalp.
3. Selenium sulfide: This ingredient helps to slow down the production of skin cells on the scalp.
4. Ketoconazole: This ingredient is an antifungal that helps to control the growth of Malassezia on the scalp.
5. Coal tar: This ingredient helps to slow down the production of skin cells and reduces inflammation.
6. Tea tree oil: This ingredient has antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce the symptoms of dandruff.

How to stop dandruff?

There are several ways to stop dandruff:

1. Use medicated shampoos: Over-the-counter medicated shampoos containing ingredients such as pyrithioxine zinc, salicylic acid, selenium sulfide, or ketoconazole can help control dandruff.
2. Gentle hair care: Using gentle, non-irritating hair care products and avoiding those that contain harsh ingredients can help reduce the risk of dandruff.
3. Scalp massage: Gently massaging the scalp with your fingers or a brush can help increase circulation and remove dead skin cells.
4. Diet and lifestyle: Eating a healthy diet and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help support the overall health of the skin and scalp.
5. Avoid scratching: Scratching an itchy scalp can irritate the skin and make dandruff worse.
6. Keep your scalp clean: Regular shampooing, with mild and pH-balanced shampoo, can help remove excess oils and dead skin cells from the scalp.
7. Moisturize: Applying a light, non-greasy moisturizer to the scalp can help keep the skin from becoming too dry.
8. Consult a Dermatologist: If over-the-counter treatments are not effective, it’s best to see a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.