The term "ethnic hair" generally refers to the hair types of people of color. Ethnic hair is often thicker, curlier and retains less moisture than Caucasian hair. Unfortunately, a range of products marketed towards ethnic women and men contain chemicals such as sulfates and alcohol that further dry the hair. Coupled with the varying misconceptions about how to maintain ethnic hair, dandruff can be a problem that is difficult for people of color to manage.
Misconceptions About Ethnic Hair
There are a number of misconceptions pertaining to the maintenance of ethnic hair. Many believe that frequent hair washing, for example, will dry the hair and prevent growth. However, ethnic hair is dry and requires weekly washing so that the hair can be properly moisturized and cleaned. Failing to wash your hair often may lead to dandruff as a result of bacterial build up or dry scalp. Furthermore, products marketed for ethnic hair may be too oily or may contain alcohol, which will further dry the scalp, leading to an increase in dandruff. If you believe your dandruff is the result of dry scalp, use a hot oil treatment and condition your hair weekly. If you are weary of washing your hair weekly, try simply conditioning your hair, as conditioners have cleansing properties to remove excess build-up as well.
Dandruff Causes
The National Institutes of Health identifies an over-production of oil and a yeast-like bacteria called malessizia as the primary causes of dandruff production in your hair. If you live in a dry climate, you may also experience dandruff, and will need to moisturize your scalp often with a light chemical and alcohol-free oil. Stress may also lead to dandruff production, as can HIV and neurological conditions.
Identification of Dandruff
Dandruff appears as small white or yellowish flakes on your scalp or in your hair. You may also experience itching with dandruff, and flakes may be visible on your clothes as a result of scratching.
Treatment
The Mayo Clinic notes that dandruff can be treated with over-the-counter shampoos that may contain ingredients such as zinc pyrithione, coal tar, salicylic acid, selenium sulfide, and ketoconazole. These ingredients reduce over-all malessizia production or slow skin-cells from dying. However, if you have ethnic hair, use caution when using products that may further dry your scalp and hair. The Mayo Clinic notes that products that contain salicylic acid, for example, may further dry the hair, leading to an increase in dandruff production. Ethnic hair may benefit from a sulfate and alcohol-free shampoo containing tea-tree oil to reduce dandruff production, and a deep conditioner or hot-oil treatment to relieve scalp dryness.
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if your scalp becomes scaly and irritated. Also, you may consider seeing a doctor if you do not see a reduction in dandruff production over time.
