Dandruff, which causes itching and flaking of the scalp, is a very common scalp condition. You can control most cases of dandruff at home. Some cases of dandruff are serious--although this is rare--and require a visit to the dermatologist if they don’t clear up with at-home treatment or if your scalp is red, sore or inflamed.
Causes
Dry skin is the most common cause of dandruff, more likely during the winter months when indoor areas are often warm and dry. Seborrheic dermatitis, a condition that causes red, greasy skin covered in white or yellow scales, is another common cause of dandruff. Seborrheic dermatitis can affect your eyebrows, armpits, groin, ears and chest as well as your scalp.
Chronic skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema can lead to recurring dandruff. If your skin is particularly sensitive, certain shampoos and hair products can dry out and irritate your scalp, leading to dandruff. In some cases, dandruff manifests as a symptom of a fungus called malassezia. Malassezia is present on the scalp of most adults and doesn't usually cause problems, but it can grow out of control by feeding on oily hair, the Mayo Clinic says.
Risk Factors
Dandruff is most common from young adulthood to middle age, though babies can develop a form of seborrheic dermatitis referred to as “cradle cap” and older adults can get dandruff as well. Males are more likely to have problems with dandruff than women due to their larger oil glands on the scalp, according to the Mayo Clinic. If you have naturally oily hair, you may be more prone to developing dandruff. People with certain neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease, are also more likely to have problems with itching and flaking scalp skin.
Lifestyle Changes
If you have an oily scalp or hair, washing it with a mild shampoo daily can help minimize the overproduction of oil that can contribute to dandruff. Using fewer styling products can also help fight greasy hair and scalp. Foods and supplements that contain zinc and B vitamins can lower your risk of developing dandruff, the Mayo Clinic says. Sunlight can help clear up mild dandruff, but you should limit your exposure to the sun and always wear a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher before going outside.
Treatment
Some cases of dandruff clear up on their own, but if you continue to have problems talk to your dermatologist about using a medicated shampoo to control your symptoms. Dandruff shampoos are available over the counter and by prescription. Some people find they have better results when alternating between different types of medicated shampoos. The Mayo Clinic recommends leaving working dandruff shampoos through your hair and over your scalp and allowing them to sit for five minutes to achieve the best results.
Zinc pyrithione shampoos reduce fungus on the scalp. Shampoos with coal tar or selenium sulfide can slow skin cell turnover on your scalp, helping to reduce flaking. Salicylic acid helps remove scales on the scalp by scrubbing and exfoliating the skin.
Side Effects
Medicated shampoos can lead to further skin irritation in some people and cause burning, stinging, rash or itching. If you have particularly sensitive skin, try using a new medicated shampoo on a small portion of your scalp and hair to see how you react. Mild stinging is not usually cause for alarm, but seek medical attention if you develop skin irritation or rash after using a medicated dandruff shampoo--especially if it contains coal tar, the Mayo Clinic says.
Coal tar and selenium sulfide can discolor light hair and stain skin or clothing. Salicylic acid shampoos can further dry out the scalp in some people. Using salicylic acid shampoos only once or twice a week can help decrease the potential for overly dry skin. Do not use medicated shampoos on babies with cradle cap unless directed to do so by your child’s pediatrician.
