Dandruff, or cradle cap as it is known in infants, is a scalp condition that can be embarrassing and uncomfortable. Most common in adults 30 to 60 and infants up to 3 months old, dandruff and cradle cap may be alarming when symptoms first appear, Robert A. Schwartz and colleagues note in a July 2006 issue of "American Family Physician." However, knowing which treatment options are available to control the condition and the associated risks, will help you choose the right treatment.
Identification
Dandruff, also known as seborrheic dermatitis, is an inflammatory scalp condition that causes flaking and itching of the scalp skin, MayoClinic.com says. The condition is characterized by the presence of patchy scaling on the scalp and yellow or white scales on the hair shaft, MayoClinic.com adds. In infants, the condition is known as cradle cap. According to MedlinePlus.com, too much skin oil production along with irritation from a yeast known as malessizia, are the likely causes of dandruff and cradle cap.
Types
Dandruff or cradle cap is treated with over-the-counter dandruff or medicated shampoos. These shampoos contain ketoconazole, salicylic acid, tar, selenium sulfide, zinc pyrithione or topical steroids. In infants, cradle cap is best treated using a non-medicated baby shampoo for mild cases or a prescription shampoo containing 2 percent ketoconazole in more severe cases, FamilyDoctor.org reports.
Function
Dandruff shampoos containing ketoconazole such as Nizoral act to slow down the growth of the antifungal agent causing the flaking and itching of the scalp skin, MedlinePlus.com says. Similarly, tar-based shampoos reduce the pace at which skin cells on your scalp die and flake off to alleviate dandruff symptoms, the MayoClinic.com says.
Zinc pyrithione, in shampoos such as Selsun Salon and Head and Shoulders, is an antifungal and antibacterial agent that reduces flakiness by slowing the production of skin cells, according to Drugs.com.
Selenium sulfide and salicylic acid shampoos soften and loosen dry, flaky skin on your scalp to relieve itching, MedlinePlus.com notes. Selenium sulfide also helps to reduce malassezia.
In severe cases, topical steroids may be required for treatment of dandruff. Prescribed corticosteroids, a type of steroid, reduce inflammation that includes swelling, itching and redness, "The Merck Manual Home Health Handbook" says.
Application
To treat dandruff, use a medicated shampoo daily until symptoms are controlled and then use it two or three times weekly, the MayoClinic.com advises. Rub the shampoo into the hair and scalp and let it sit for five minutes before washing it away, FamilyDoctor.org recommends. If your doctor prescribes a topical steroid, use it daily or two times daily along with the shampoo.
To treat cradle cap, loosen the scales or flakes on your infant's scalp by massaging the scalp with your fingers or a soft brush. Then, use a mild, non-medicated shampoo daily until the flakes disappear, the University of Maryland Medical Center says. Brush your infant's hair with a soft brush several times daily, especially after shampooing. If the scales do not disappear, try applying mineral oil to the scalp up to an hour before shampooing. If flakes persist, talk to your doctor who may prescribe a medicated shampoo, cream or lotion.
Warnings
Dandruff is a chronic condition that is controlled with effective treatment. However, you may find that one type of shampoo may only work for a period of time before having to switch to another type, the MayoClinic.com says. Follow label instructions when applying medicated dandruff shampoos. If you experience skin or scalp irritation, burning, hair loss or hair discoloration, contact your doctor.
References
- "American Family Physician"; Seborrheic Dermatitis: An Overview; Robert A. Schwartz et al.; July 2006
- MayoClinic.com: Dandruff
- MayoClinic.com: Seborrheic Dermatitis
- MedlinePlus: Seborrheic Dermatitis
- FamilyDoctor.org: Seborrheic Dermatitis: What It Is and How to Treat It
