Dandruff is a condition that can affect anyone. It is also known as cradle cap when it affects infants and children up to 3 years old, notes MedlinePlus. Dandruff isn't contagious and it isn't usually a serious medical condition; however, it may be difficult to treat.
Symptoms
Oily, white or yellow flakes of dead skin that are in the hair or near affected areas are the most common symptom of dandruff. The affected area may be red and it may itch. In some cases, the affected area may become scaly, which is usually the case with cradle cap. Infection may occur, especially if the area is scratched. Hair loss is also possible, notes MedlinePlus. Dandruff most often occurs on the scalp. Other areas with hair, such as the eyebrows, can also be affected.
Causes
Dandruff is usually caused by seborrheic dermatitis, which is irritated and oily skin, notes MayoClinic.com. Other causes include contact dermatitis -- a sensitivity to hair care products, eczema, dry skin, psoriasis and waiting too long between shampoos. In some cases, a yeast infection may be the cause of dandruff.
Considerations
Men are more likely to suffer from dandruff than women. Poor diet, excessively oily scalp and hair, medical conditions such as Parkinson's disease and a weak immune system are some risk factors of dandruff. Young adults through middle aged adults are most likely to have dandruff. While dandruff can occur at any time, it is most common during the winter and fall months when heaters can dry out the skin.
Treatment
The only treatment that is usually required to stop dandruff is shampooing your hair frequently. MayoClinic.com recommends a mild cleanser for mild cases of dandruff and medicated shampoos for more serious cases of dandruff. Over-the-counter dandruff shampoos are likely to contain one of these ingredients: tar, salicylic acid, zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide or ketoconazole. You may have to try more than one product to find one that controls your dandruff.
