Dandruff is a common skin problem which occurs from young adulthood through middle age, according to MayoClinic.com. Individuals with dandruff may have itchy, flaking skin on the face, inside of the ear or between folds of skin, but it most commonly occurs on the scalp. Understanding the causes and treatment options for dandruff can reduce or eliminate this problem.
Identification
Dry dandruff presents as small white flakes, whereas more oily dandruff presents as clumps of yellow skin. Dandruff is particularly noticeable on dark hair or clothing. The problem may fluctuate because of hormonal changes, an increase in perceived stress, changes in immunity or the effectiveness of therapeutic treatments, notes MayoClinic.com. Dandruff may also improve with more frequent hair washing and during summer due to increased sun exposure.
Causes
The scalp naturally contains sebum, an oil-like substance produced by the hair follicles, and malassezia, a yeast that eats excess sebum. During times of increased stress, hormonal changes, allergies, or compromised immunity, the yeast can proliferate. Abundant yeast robs the scalp of sebum, leading to dry and irritated skin and flaking. Skin regeneration speeds up to supply new and healthy cells to the top layer, leading to excess skin cells that accumulate and flake off, compounding the problem.
Risk Factors
Men have larger sebaceous glands on the scalp and tend to produce more sebum, which can accumulate and irritate the skin, MayoClinic.com reports. However, not all dandruff is gender-based. MedlinePlus warns that several neurological conditions, including Parkinson's disease and stroke, may increase the risk of dandruff. It also notes that obesity may increase its prevalence.
Hair Care Strategies
Hair care products may accumulate on the scalp and flake off or induce skin irritation and shedding, Great Ormond Street Hospital reports. Limiting product use can limit scalp irritation. Repeated chemical treatments such as perms, relaxers or hair coloring and continual exposure to hot air dryers may also irritate the scalp, leading to dandruff conditions.
Dietary Changes
A healthy diet can support skin regeneration and skin health. MayoClinic.com suggests that individuals whose daily diet lacks zinc, B vitamins or certain types of fats may be more likely to have dandruff. Health911 also cautions that individuals on low- or no-fat diets may need fatty acid supplementation to maintain hair and scalp elasticity and strength.
Prevention/Solution
Over-the-counter dandruff shampoos contain an array of ingredients, including zinc pyrithione and ketoconazole, which limit scalp fungus; salicylic acid, which eliminates the accumulation of skin cells; and selenium sulfide, which helps maintain moisture levels in skin cells. Individuals may need to switch shampoos to maintain their effectiveness and use them daily initially, then reduce their use to several times per week. Keep the shampoo on the scalp for at least five minutes, before rinsing. If a few weeks of OTC shampoos provide no relief, individuals may seek professional medical care for stronger-grade shampoos and topical lotions.
For a home remedy, Health 911 suggests applying 2 tbsp. of apple cider vinegar to the scalp. Vinegar inhibits yeast growth and thereby helps restore the moisture level of the skin. Avoid the eye area, and leave on for at least 15 minutes, and up to three hours. Wash out immediately if there's any discomfort.
Otherwise, shampoo using a gentle cleanser, avoid styling products, and use cooler air settings on the hair dryer, to limit irritation to the skin.
