The presence of acne along with dandruff does not indicate that the two symptoms are related. In the distant past, there was thought to be a correlation between acne and scalp conditions such as seborrhea and dandruff. However, a study of men in the military published in the "British Medical Journal" during the mid-1950s debunked the relationship. Regardless, scalp conditions and acne commonly appear together as secondary symptoms caused by overactive sebaceous glands.
Definition
Acne, a common skin condition, often appears during the teenage years. However, it can appear or flare at any age. Acne causes the formation of pimples, blackheads, cysts and redness on the face, neck, shoulders and back. Dandruff, a chronic scalp condition that affects people of all ages, causes itching and flaking, according to MayoClinic.com.
Symptoms
Skin suffering from acne appears red and inflamed. Upon close inspection, one can see tiny pustules and black dots called whiteheads and blackheads, respectively. Red bumps may form and feel tender to the touch. Deep boils or cysts may also form. The scalp commonly itches in a person with dandruff, and small white, oily flakes of skin fall when the hair is tousled or disturbed.
Causes
Acne has three major causes: excess oil production in the skin, irregular shedding of dead skin cells and the presence of bacteria, according to MayoClinic.com. All of these factors work together or independently to clog pores, resulting in the formation of pustules, cysts and blackheads. An oily skin condition can cause dandruff as well. However, other causes for dandruff exist, including dry skin, poor hygiene, psoriasis, eczema, allergies and fungal infection.
Treatment
Treatment options for acne include a good skin-care routine, over-the-counter acne medications, prescribed acne medications and oral antibiotics. In cases of hormone-induced acne, oral contraceptives may be prescribed. Cosmetic procedures such as laser therapy, chemical peels and microdermabrasion may also help. Salicylic acid, a medication commonly used to treat acne, is found in some medicated dandruff shampoos. Other shampoos used to treat dandruff include ingredients such as zinc, coal tar, selenium sulfide and anti-fungal agents.
Considerations
MayoClinic.com recommends adopting a good hygienic routine for the prevention and treatment of both acne and dandruff. The site also recommends avoiding heavy or oily skin care and hair care products, as these may intensify or exacerbate both conditions.
