Dandruff

How do I manage dandruff?

Dandruff is a skin condition in which your scalp flakes off. The condition is neither serious nor contagious. However, it is embarrassing and irritating. Typically, it may go away with the help of shampoos. When it happens in infants it is referred to as cradle cap.

What causes dandruff?

Shedding off old skin cells and forming new cells is a natural process. When lots of dead skin accumulates on the scalp and starts flaking off, you get dandruff. The causes are as follows:

•    Oily and irritated skin.
•    Insufficient shampooing to clean hair.
•    Yeast (Malassezia) or fungus that feeds on the oily scalp.
•    Dry skin.
•    Hair color or styling product that leaves a dry residue on your scalp.
•    Presence of other skin condition such as psoriasis or eczema.

What are the symptoms of dandruff?

If you have dandruff you may experience the following symptoms:

•    White or yellow flakes on your scalp in the head and the shoulders.
•    Flaky skin near the eyebrows, beard and moustache.
•    Itching of the scalp.

When should I see a doctor?

Dandruff usually does not require medical treatment. However, if your condition does not improve with the use of anti-dandruff shampoo you may want to see a doctor. If you notice any kind of redness or swelling of the scalp accompanied by hair loss or if you notice a red rash on any other part of the skin while you have dandruff, you may see the dermatologist (skin doctor).

Can daily hair wash keep away dandruff?

Frequent washing with an antidandruff shampoo can help in keeping away dandruff. It is better to use your regular shampoo so that it removes the scales as soon as they form. The detergents in your regular shampoo will also remove some scales from your scalp that are not visible. If frequent use of your regular shampoo does not clear dandruff, use an antidandruff shampoo.

Can the hair washing method help in removing dandruff?

How you wash your hair is equally important as how many times you wash them. You should follow the labelling instructions on the shampoo. It is important to lather the shampoo twice into the scalp and hair. While you apply it for the second time, leave it on the scalp for at least five minutes and rinse away. Do not forget to shampoo the hair along with the scalp. Do not scrub your scalp, it is harmful.

What are the treatment options for dandruff?

Shampoos containing special ingredients can treat dandruff. These ingredients are as follows:
•    Ketoconazole kills the fungus. E.g., Nizoral shampoo
•    Salicylic acid helps to remove the dry flakes
•    Selenium sulfide slows the process of dead skin cells build up and also fights fungus
•    Tar also slows down dead skin cells build up but it may discolor blonde or grey hair
•    Zinc pyrithione acts as an antifungal agent

Are there any natural remedies for dandruff?

There is a plethora of anti-dandruff shampoos that contain chemicals to treat dandruff. However, some home remedies may also help. Here are a few tips:

•    Apply tea tree oil to your scalp. It has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help cure dandruff.
•    Coconut oil helps to moisturize the scalp and has anti-microbial properties.
•    Aloe vera can help cure fungal infections on the scalp.
•    Add apple cider vinegar in small quantity to your shampoo.
•    Eat more probiotics to enhance your immune system.
•    Apply baking soda to your scalp and massage it on your scalp. It relieves itching.
•    Manage your stress levels.

Can dandruff cause hair fall?

The scratching of the scalp due to itching in dandruff damages the hair follicles and may result in hair fall. Oxidative stress on the scalp can also cause hair loss. Studies show that the yeast Malassezia that is present on the scalp and responsible for dandruff may contribute to oxidative stress.

Dandruff is more of an aesthetic problem. It is not serious at all and can be treated easily with shampoos available over the counter. If conditions do not improve you may see a doctor and use a prescription shampoo according to your doctor’s advice.