What is dandruff?

Dandruff is a common condition in all human beings during which the skin on the scalp starts to flake. Seborrhea is the medical name for dandruff, and this condition weakens your scalp at first because it is caused by poor hair brushing, stress, and dry skin. This condition is not contagious or serious, but is difficult to treat. Though it is embarrassing to the person, if it is mild, it can be treated with a good gentle daily shampoo. A medicated shampoo might also help, but there is a chance that the symptoms might return

What causes dandruff?

The main reason that causes dandruff to reappear is bad hair hygiene. Hair dandruff is caused by a fungus that feeds on oils on the scalp of most adults. The byproduct called oleic acid is formed when the oil on the scalp breaks down. Some people are allergic to this oleic acid and this results in the shedding of scalp skin in layers. When the new skin is formed on the skin, the old skin comes out in the form of flakes.

Here are some of the major causes of dandruff.

• Irregular hair brushing and hair washing
• Using shampoo sparsely
• Any type of mental stress
• Parkinson’s disease

Myths About Dandruff

The main myth about dandruff is that it is caused by a dry scalp,which is not true. Even an oiled head causes dandruff as oils yield a fungus on the scalp. The other myth is that using a warm oil treatment will reduce dandruff. This treatment might moisturize the scalp and cool the head. But if your flakes are caused by using regular oil, this treatment will worsen it. Another common myth is that dandruff is contagious. Many feel that dandruff occurs in the winter only. But we should know that dry and cold weather is not the only factor that causes dandruff. It all depends on the release of excessive oil.

How Does Dandruff Affect Your Scalp And Hair?

Dandruff itself does not cause hair loss. There are many factors that can cause hair to fall out. However, when a person scratches the scalp due to the itching caused by the dandruff, he injures the scalp, which leads to infections and hair loss. When such a process is repeated over time, these nflammations can cause a stoppage of hair growth. This leads to thinning of hair. The shampoos one uses do no good, and that is when you will need medical treatment to treat this condition. A consultation with a dermatologist becomes mandatory.

Easy Steps To Get Rid Of Dandruff Permanently

It is not easy to completely get rid of dandruff permanently unless you shave off the hair and allow it to grow again. Still, there is no guarantee. However, there are a few home remedies to reduce the severity of dandruff

Apple cider vinegar: is one of the best natural remedies to treat severe dandruff. You need to add equal quantities of apple cider vinegar to water and keep it aside. After washing your hair, you can apply this mixture to wet hair. Leave it for 15 minutes and then rinse it off.

Coconut oil with lemon juice: not only nourishes hair but can cure dandruff. Mix equal quantities of coconut oil and lemon juice and keep it aside. After washing your hair, you can apply this mixture to wet hair. Leave it for 15 minutes and then rinse it off.

Fenugreek seeds: can be used as a preventive cure for dandruff. Soak fenugreek seeds overnight and grind the seeds to a paste in the morning. Add lemon juice to this paste. Apply it to your scalp and hair and leave it to dry for 30 minutes, then rinse it off.

Home Treatments for Dandruff

Apply a few oils like tea tree oil, coconut oil, and aloe vera gel. This will keep the scalp hydrated and reduce the scaling of the scalp.

Tea tree oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce the severity and symptoms of dandruff.

Coconut oil can improve skin hydration and reduce dryness, thereby combating symptoms of eczema and dandruff.

Aloe vera has antibacterial and antifungal properties that may reduce inflammation and decrease dandruff symptoms.

When to See a Doctor for Dandruff Treatment

When your condition doesn’t improve by continuous usage of dandruff shampoos and home remedies, you have to see a doctor or dermatologist for consultation and further treatment. Home remedies are good if the dandruff condition is not severe. If dandruff is severe, then it is advised that you take medical treatment that can help resolve this problem. Sometimes, excessive usage of anti-dandruff shampoos does not do any good, and that is when you will need medical treatment to treat this condition.

Best Dandruff treatment

The best dandruff treatment is keeping the scalp hydrated by applying oils and keeping your stress levels under control. For mild dandruff, we recommend first trying regular cleansing with a gentle shampoo to reduce oil and skin cell buildup. If that doesn’t help, one can also try a medicated dandruff shampoo. Dietary modifications in our lifestyle can make a huge difference in lessening the appearance of dandruff. It is recommended that we eat a diet rich in seasonal fruits and vegetables for added nutrition daily. We also need to keep our stress levels as low as possible. Yoga and meditation help to reduce stress.

FAQ’s

• Can vitamin deficiency lead to dandruff?

Yes. Studies by experts show that vitamin deficiency can cause scaly scalps and dandruff. Low levels of vitamin B2, B6, vitamin B3 and zinc can cause seborrheic dermatitis. Therefore, to improve the health of the scalp and thereby reduce dandruff, we must include foods such as seafood, nuts, legumes, meat, dairy products, and more.

• Can a scalp brush help in reducing dandruff?

Giving your scalp a stimulating massage every time you take a bath with shampoo and conditioner while showering ensures that the products are spread evenly through your hair. A gentle massage will relax your scalp muscles and specifically stimulate blood flow to prevent itching and thereby reduce dandruff.

• Is dandruff more common during summer or winter?

Dandruff can occur at any time of year. However, we notice that it is more common during the winter months when the scalp becomes itchy and dry, and this itching can lead to flakes that cause dandruff. It is recommended to brush your hair with a scalp massager brush to remove excessive oil that gets accumulated on your scalp and wash your hair with a moisturising shampoo at least three times a week. Try to avoid heat styling as the hair can lose its moisture and the dryness will appear on the scalp.