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Dandruff: Everything You Need to Know About
Explore everything you need to know about dandruff, from its causes and symptoms to effective treatments and home remedies. Learn about common myths, facts, and additional risk factors associated with this common scalp condition.
What is Dandruff?
Dandruff, also known as seborrheic dermatitis, is the excessive shedding of skin cells from the scalp, eyebrows, or near the nose. It's caused by the rapid shedding of dead skin cells, resulting in larger flakes.
While primarily a cosmetic issue, it's not medically serious, contagious, or linked to hair loss. It often improves with warm, humid weather, sunlight exposure, and reduced stress.
What Causes Dandruff?
- Fungal Overgrowth : Malassezia fungus thriving on the scalp.
- Excess Scalp Oil : Resulting in sticky, oily dandruff.
- Irregular brushing and hair washing.
- Infrequent use of shampoo.
- Stress and mental health conditions.
- Certain medical conditions like Parkinson’s disease.
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Get A Second OpinionSigns or Symptoms for Dandruff
- Dandruff typically presents with these common signs:
- White flakes of dead skin in the hair, often noticeable on shoulders.
- Itchy and scaly scalp.
- Other signs that may accompany dandruff include:
- Dry, flaky skin that worsens in cold weather.
- Dry skin on the face, forehead, ears, and eyebrows.
- Flaky skin on the chest or other hairy parts of the body.
- Greasy or oily patches on the scalp or other areas.
- Mild redness in affected areas.
- Temporary hair loss.
Treatment for Dandruff
If dandruff persists or worsens, consulting a doctor is advisable for a proper diagnosis. For mild dandruff without a specific cause, over-the-counter products can help manage flaking and itchiness.
Steps for using anti-dandruff shampoo effectively:
- Gently remove any scales or crusty patches from the hairline before shampooing.
- Use a soft comb or brush to loosen and remove loose flakes.
- Wash with a medicated shampoo recommended by your doctor or pharmacist.
- Avoid vigorous scratching or scrubbing to prevent irritation.
Home Remedies to Prevent Dandruff
There are effective home remedies that can help eliminate dandruff permanently. These remedies involve preparing and applying specific mixtures:
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is known for its powerful organic properties against severe dandruff.
- Mix apple cider vinegar with water.
- After washing your hair, apply the mixture to wet hair.
- Gently massage into the scalp.
- Leave it on for 15 minutes, then rinse off.
Mehndi (Henna)
Mehndi can effectively treat dandruff and nourish the hair.
- Mix mehndi with curd and a little lemon juice.
- Let the mixture sit for at least 8 hours.
- Apply the paste directly to the hair.
- Leave it for 2 hours, then wash it off thoroughly.
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Book an AppointmentCoconut Oil With Lemon
Coconut oil, combined with lemon juice, nourishes hair and treats dandruff.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of coconut oil and mix it with lemon juice.
- Apply to the scalp and gently massage.
- Leave for 20 minutes, then rinse with shampoo.
Fenugreek Seeds
Fenugreek seeds prevent dandruff and offer various health benefits;
- Soak fenugreek seeds overnight.
- In the morning, blend into a paste and add lemon juice.
- Apply to hair and leave for 30 minutes.
- Wash hair with shampoo.
Myths and Facts of Dandruff
Myth
- Dandruff always comes from having a dry scalp.
- Oil treatments can clear up dandruff.
- Before shampooing, removing flakes will help.
- A person must wash their hair very often if they have dandruff.
- There's no need to exfoliate your scalp.
- Dandruff is worse in summer.
Fact
- Dandruff is a very common medical condition that almost all people have experienced at some point in their lives, regardless of age or ethnicity.
- Dandruff affects areas with hair follicles, including the scalp.
- Dandruff is seen in all ages, from a baby to an elderly person.
- Dandruff looks like dry and delicate flaky skin on the scalp.
- A person must rinse their hair three times a week to get rid of dandruff.
Other Risk Factors for Dandruff
- Winter Temperature Extremes : Cold weather and overheated rooms can exacerbate dandruff.
- Inappropriate Hair Brushing : Improper brushing can lead to the accumulation of dead skin cells.
- Stress : Stress can contribute to dandruff.
- Age : Psoriasis is more likely to occur between adolescence and mid-life.
- Hormonal Factors : Hormonal changes, particularly common in males, can influence dandruff.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dandruff is caused when a type of fungus called Malassezia begins to grow on the scalp. However, this can result in scalp damage and can cause some severe dryness. There is a different type of dandruff wherein the scalp begins to produce more oil and as a result, dandruff appears to be more sticky and oily on the hair.
If dandruff and itching are prolonged or if the condition worsens, it might be a good idea to see a doctor. They can understand the core problem that will respond to a particular diagnosis. Numerous over-the-counter products will help handle flaking and itchiness in the case of mild dandruff without a specific cause.
Choose anti-dandruff shampoo which contains zinc pyrithione. This will work as an antibacterial and antifungal agent.
Home remedies for dandruff include massaging the scalp with coconut oil, tea tree oil, apple cider vinegar, or aloe vera; using anti-dandruff shampoos that contain coal tar, zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, or ketoconazole; and washing hair with cold water.
You should consult a dermatologist if home remedies do not improve dandruff if the scalp becomes inflamed or swollen, if there are signs of infection such as oozing or crusting, or if dandruff is severe and persistent despite treatment.
Yes, Stress can cause hormonal shifts and immune system deterioration, which can make dandruff symptoms worse. Practicing stress-reduction techniques like yoga, meditation, or regular exercise may help manage dandruff.
Dandruff needs to be communicable. It is a common scalp ailment that is not contagious and is brought on by a number of circumstances.
Eating a balanced diet with plenty of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats is important for keeping your scalp healthy. Foods like fish, nuts, seeds, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, which are high in omega-3 fatty acids, can also help lessen dandruff symptoms.
Cold, dry weather can contribute to dry scalp and worsen dandruff symptoms. In such conditions, using a humidifier indoors, wearing hats or scarves outdoors, and maintaining scalp moisture can help alleviate symptoms.
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- Endocrinology 123
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- Procedure 71
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- Pulmonology 113
- Radiology 13
- Second Opinion 248
- Urology 285
- Wellness 546
- Woman-and-child 398
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