Dandruff

By Paromeeta Ray

Category: health

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Dandruff is an ailment of the scalp, which is common among millions of people throughout the world. Scaling and flaking of the scalp surface are clear signs of dandruff. These flakes are nothing but dead skin cells being discarded from the scalp. Though, release of some amount of dead cells is normal, release, in extreme proportions, indicate the onset of dandruff. Dandruff is accompanied by irritation and itching of the scalp. The dandruff flakes are often visible on one’s shoulders and back. Dandruff is generally a chronic ailment. It is believed to be more predominant among men. It is also seen to be predominant among those who have been suffering from acne and hormonal problems. Studies show that dandruff often leads to hair loss. Extreme scaling and flaking also indicate fungal infection and seborrhoeic dermatitis.

Causes of Dandruff

The epidermal layer of the scalp renews itself constantly. As a result, the replaced cells are forced to come out and die. These dead cells form flakes. These flakes are normally so tiny that they are invisible. And, normally they grow old, die and flake off in a cycle, which almost covers a month. But, in certain people, cells mature abnormally fast. When that happens on the scalp too, cells grow old, get replaced, die and flake off in a cycle covering only 2-8 days. This results in a large volume of dead skin cells in the form of big, greasy tufts. Thus whitish pieces appear on the scalp and become visible at the hair-partings, forehead, ears and eyebrows and often on the clothes.

Studies have shown that dandruff is caused by:

a) One’s own bodily tendencies
b) Hyperactive sebaceous glands secreting excess sebum
c) Some skin fungus of the Malassezia family

Studies indicate that the following can act as catalysts to dandruff:

a) Hereditary tendencies
b) Hormonal imbalances
c) Hypersensitive skin and scalp
d) Lack of balanced nutrition
e) Inadequate intake of water
f) Stress
g) Irregular cleansing of the scalp
h) Improper washing, leaving off remains of shampoo in the hair and on the scalp
i) Use of curlers, colors, gels and sprays on hair
j) Use of hair oil
k) Very frequent use of anti-dandruff shampoos


Treatment of Dandruff
Treatment of dandruff starts with an immediate stop to oiling of hair and scalp. It should be accompanied by increase in the volume of water intake. Dandruff-infested scalp is advised to be washed regularly, preferably everyday. A very mild shampoo, preferably an herbal one, should be used in this regular cleansing. Anti-dandruff medication or anti-dandruff shampoos available over-the-counter must be used once a week. Excessive use of these can cause more dandruff and lead to other side effects.
Nizoral is an anti-dandruff shampoo favorite among doctors and users. Selsun and Candid are also two very effective medicated shampoos. People suffering from nominal dandruff or wishing to prevent it can use shampoos like Head & Shoulders or Pantene Anti-Dandruff once a week. Fuller’s earth is also a very effective herbal ingredient to fight dandruff.
If acute problems persist and lead to severe itching and hair-loss, it is advised to consult a dermatologist, who can prescribe oral medicines after running some tests.