Dandruff is a common problem that can afflict anyone. There are many causes of dandruff and differing degrees of severity, but it can be treated. Curly hair typically requires different shampoos and conditioners, as well as different treatment than straight hair. Though remedies for dandruff are standard for all hair types, there are options for those with curly hair.
Dandruff
Dandruff can affect any hair type, as the condition has to do with your scalp. Most dandruff problems can be treated with over-the-counter anti-dandruff shampoos. Stubborn cases may require medicinal treatments. Dandruff causes white, oily flakes of dead skin and may be triggered by conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis, scalp psoriasis, dry scalp or malassezia. It can happen at any age during cold, dry weather and may be the result of infrequent shampooing.
Curly Hair
Hair has multiple layers and is made up of keratin proteins, lipids, polysaccharides, water and pigment particles, according to the Naturally Curly website. Curly hair has a different structure than straight hair. The strand of curly hair bends and curls around itself, making it susceptible to drying out and becoming damaged. Because of the structure of curly hair, cuticle layers can become slightly raised, causing tangles and breakage. Curly hair requires more moisture than straight since the bending of the hair makes it difficult for moisture to travel along the hair.
Risk Factors
A dry scalp can lead to dandruff and curly hair is more prone to dryness. Curly hair does not need to be washed all the time since this will dry it out faster. Too much blow drying, especially on high heat, will damage the curl, dry out the scalp and possibly cause dandruff. Seborrheic dermatitis and scalp psoriasis are inflammatory conditions of the skin and scalp. Skin infections can cause both dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. Scalp psoriasis is thought to be caused by an autoimmune disorder. Malassezia may be triggered by a fungal infection; the fungus feeds on skin oils and dead skin cells.
Treatment
Selenium sulfide and ketoconazole are often used for treating dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. Coal tar and salicylic acid help to treat scalp psoriasis. These shampoos are strong and can be harsh for your curly hair. Other options include organic or natural shampoos, which are much gentler on your curly hair's delicate hair fibers. Organic shampoos that contain rosemary or tea tree oil can help to treat dandruff but leave your hair soft. Healthier alternatives for your curly hair are natural shampoos that have coconut oil, lemon juice or apple cider vinegar.
Considerations
Dandruff is not usually a serious condition, but depending on the cause, it could become a potentially serious problem if not treated properly. It is best to talk with your doctor if initial treatment for your dandruff does not work.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Dandruff
- Surviving Hair Loss: Choosing a Dandruff Shampoo
- Surviving Hair Loss: Handling Seborrheic Dermatitis
- Surviving Hair Loss: Overcoming Scalp Psoriasis
- Naturally Curly: The Cuticle is the First Line of Defense for Our Hair
- Organic Shampoo: Organic Natural Shampoo for Dandruff and Hair Loss
