Dandruff is a common chronic and non-contagious condition which affects the scalp (the skin that covers the top and back of the head). It causes itching and flaking of the skin. Skin cells on the scalp are constantly renewed. The old ones pushed to the surface come away from the scalp. Skin cells renew faster for people with dandruff. More dead skin is shed and the flakes become more noticeable.http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dandruff/Pages/Introduction.aspx Dandruff usually begins after puberty and continues through middle age. It occurs more often in men and people lacking zinc, B vitamins and certain types of fats.http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/dandruff/DS00456/DSECTION=risk-factors
Dandruff can vary in severity; mild dandruff can affect anyone. More serious cases of dandruff can be caused by dry skin, irritated and oily skin (seborrheic dermatitis), not shampooing often enough, psoriasis, eczema, sensitivity to hair care products (contact dermatitis) or a yeast-like fungus (malassezia).http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/dandruff/DS00456/DSECTION=causes Adults with neurological diseases, such as Parkinson's disease, are more likely to develop seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/dandruff/DS00456/DSECTION=risk-factors
Dandruff Treatment
Mild cases of dandruff may need nothing more than daily shampooing with a gentle cleanser. More stubborn cases of dandruff can be treated by using tar-based shampoos or shampoos containing zinc pyrithione, salicylic acid, selenium sulfide or ketoconazole.http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/dandruff/DS00456http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/dandruff/DS00456/DSECTION=treatments-and-drugs If the condition persists after several weeks of experimenting with various dandruff shampoos or if the scalp becomes red or swollen, seborrheic dermatitis or other problems with the hair and scalp may be the root causes which can be diagnosed by a doctor or dermatologist.http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/dandruff/DS00456/DSECTION=symptoms
The Causes and Cures of Dandruff
A hair care expert explains what dandruff is in the video. He also explains the causes for dry and oil dandruff. For people with dry dandruff, the cure is to use the most appropriate shampoo which moisturizes the scalp. Some hair products may help reduce the production of skin cells and alleviate the problem of dandruff.
Disclaimer
The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact a doctor before using the information presented here.
References
Fast Facts
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Most common cause of dandruff
Seborrhoeic dermatitis
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Dandruff occurence
Uncommon in pre-pubescent children (those who are between two and ten years of age)
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Preventing dandruff
Chemicals and hair products may irritate the scalp and cause dandruff, scratching the scalp when using shampoo may also irritate or hurt the scalp which produces more dead skin cells
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Sunlight
Ultraviolet (UV) light can help reduce dandruff
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Stress
Can trigger dandruff or make it worse
