Overview
Dandruff is a mild form of seborrheic dermatitis, a skin condition that mainly affects your scalp. It isn’t contagious or harmful. But it can be embarrassing and difficult to treat.
You can treat mild dandruff with gentle, regular shampooing. If that doesn’t help, you may need to use a special medicated shampoo. There is no cure for dandruff. Even if you treat it, the symptoms may come back later. But with treatment, most people can manage the symptoms.
Causes
- Dry Scalp: Lack of moisture leading to small, dry flakes, common in cold weather.
- Oily Scalp (Seborrheic Dermatitis): Excess oil feeds the Malassezia fungus, causing rapid skin cell turnover and larger flakes.
- Malassezia: Fungus: Overgrowth of this common scalp fungus irritates the scalp and speeds up flaking.
- Product Buildup: Residue from shampoos, conditioners, or styling products can irritate and clog follicles.
- Sensitivity: Reactions to hair care products or underlying skin conditions.
- Lifestyle/Environment: Stress, diet (sugar/carb intake), and cold, dry air.
Symptoms
- Visible white or gray flakes on scalp, hair, eyebrows, shoulders, or clothing.
- Itchy scalp (pruritus).
- Redness or inflammation (more common with seborrheic dermatitis).
Treatment & Management
- Medicated Shampoos: Look for ingredients like zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole, salicylic acid, coal tar, or selenium sulfide.
- Regular Washing: Prevents oil and product buildup, but adjust frequency based on hair type (fine hair needs more, coily/curly less).
- Scalp Care: Gentle exfoliation, avoiding hot water, and not scratching.
- Diet: A balanced diet rich in zinc, B vitamins, and healthy fats can help.
- Home Remedies (Use with Caution): Tea tree oil (diluted) has antifungal properties but can irritate sensitive skin.
Above article is for information purpose only. Any query related to health you can reach us on query@gtsmeditour.com or whatsapp us on +91 9164822440 and get the best available treatment plans at affordable cost .
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