5 Things You Need to Know About Dandruff

1. Dandruff Is Just Dermatitis

Dandruff, or seborrhea, is a chronic scalp disorder and a type of skin inflammation, (or dermatitis) with no known cause. Its symptoms include a flaking and excessively itchy scalp. The flaking is a result of dead skin tissue falling from the scalp. Dandruff can make your scalp feel either dry or oily (people with oily dandruff have over productive oil glands found at the hair roots). While embarrassing, dandruff doesn't pose a real health threat.

2. A Range of Risk Factors

While anyone can develop dandruff, certain risk factors can make you more susceptible. More men than women have dandruff, because researchers theorize that male hormones contribute to the problem. Men also have larger sebaceous glands, which produce more oil. The more oily your hair and skin, the more likely you are to develop dandruff. Other risk factors include having a compromised immune system or a neurological illness, such as Parkinson's disease. Dandruff appears during young adulthood and continues, and even worsens, as you age.

3. Get Back in Black With Store-bought Shampoos

Dandruff makes it difficult to wear black clothing because people with the condition are hesitant to have their shoulders covered in visible white flakes. Luckily, there are a number of over-the-counter products that are extremely effective in treating dandruff. Look for dandruff shampoos containing tar, zinc, salicylic acid, selenium sulfide or ketoconazole. Use the shampoo daily or one to two times a week, depending on the severity of your dandruff. If your chosen dandruff shampoo stops working, switch to another. Or you can alternate shampoos containing different active ingredients.

4. Alternatives to OTC Shampoos

Unfortunately, over-the-counter shampoos don't always do the trick. If you have used these products for weeks without results, talk to your doctor or dermatologist. There are prescription-strength shampoos, cortisone-based gels, lotions or foams that are stronger than over-the-counter products. Also consider tea tree oil, a remedy found in shampoos in natural food stores.

5. Face Dandruff Head On to Reduce Your Risk

You can't prevent dandruff, but you can reduce your risk by taking preemptive action. If you have oily hair, shampoo it daily to reduce excess oil, which contributes to dandruff. Try cutting back on products such as styling gels, mousse, hair spray and hair wax. These products tend to build up on your hair and scalp with continued use, and make your scalp oilier. Eat foods rich in B vitamins, zinc and essential fatty acids (fish, meat, poultry, eggs, nuts and seeds). Even getting a bit more sun can help ward off dandruff.