It could be embarrassing to be moving about while having little, tiny white flakes fall across your head and shoulders. However, it is one of the most common hair problems, can leave you constantly itching and make it challenging for you to wear some of your favourite dark outfits.
What is Dandruff?
A common scalp problem that typically develops in the winter. In response to the cold and dry weather, the scalp begins to flake off. You may have prolonged irritation and inflammation as the issue goes overlooked like other little things.
Is Dandruff Contagious?
Dandruff is not a contagious condition. Most common causative agents are oil and the fungi that are already present on the scalp. However, people who are sensitive to the interaction of oil and fungi are more prone to developing this condition. This interaction results in increases in the production of cells resulting in flake formation.
What causes dandruff?
Microorganisms
According to research, the bacterial species Propionibacterium and Staphylococcus are major factors in the formation of dandruff.
Malassezia is a fungus that typically lives on our scalps. Our skin may occasionally become irritated by this fungus, which results in itching and the formation of additional skin cells.
Scalp infections
If you are suffering from seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis or eczema the intensity of flakiness may be severe. If you suffer any moderate pain or scalp redness, you may need to see a board-certified dermatologist as soon as possible. Additionally, if your scalp is sensitive to sunlight the condition can be worse.
Harsh hair care products
The chemicals in some hair care products can irritate the scalp and lead to this condition. You should consider switching to a mild, non-medicated shampoo if you notice that a product is irritating you or if you discover that you are allergic to particular substances.
Unhygienic practices
Even though dandruff may not be the direct cause, poor hygiene can exacerbate the condition. Lack of shampooing can only worsen it since the yeast and fungi on your scalp will have more oil and dead skin cells to feed on.
How to get rid of dandruff
For effectively treating this condition, a comprehensive treatment plan is required. Following are some of the methods to treat this condition:
Healthy diet: A healthy diet results in healthy hair and scalp that will result in hair growth. People with dandruff should incorporate foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and protein in their diet.
Zinc and biotin for hair are also crucial for healthy hair. Adding green leafy vegetables to your diet will strengthen your immune system and prevent scalp infections. Remember to limit the quantity of sugar.
Stress management: Although stress does not have any direct involvement with its formation, research indicates that stress reduces the ability of the body for fighting against pathogens. Stress causes difficulty in its treatment and may worsen the symptoms.
Avoid excess hair products: Using harsh chemicals on scalp makes dandruff removal a bit challenging. Chemicals irritate the scalp and increase the cell turnover rate. These cells mixed with oil and other chemicals result in flaking.
Good hair care: Good hair care is one of the primary requirements of dandruff-free hair. The hair should be thoroughly washed to remove dirt and oil. Various anti-dandruff hair care products like Ketoconazole anti-dandruff shampoo and products containing salicylic acid and zinc pyrithione help reduce and treat dandruff and these work for all hair types.
Lemon:
The citric acid present in lemon juice is highly effective in treating dandruff. Citric acid removes excess oil present in the scalp and regulates the pH. A cup of water with a few drops of lemon juice is excellent for massaging the scalp. Coconut oil can also be added with lime juice for better results.
Aloe vera:
Aloe vera possesses various vital properties which make it an ideal home remedy for dandruff. Aloe vera reduces scalp inflammation and dryness that can be a major cause of dandruff. Further, it also possesses moisturising and antioxidant properties. If you have dry skin on your scalp, aloe vera will work wonders.
Neem oil:
Neem oil has remarkable antimicrobial properties, for treating dandruff caused by microorganisms. A thick paste of neem leaves is also useful when applied directly like a hair mask. Apply this paste on the hair and leave it for 10-15 minutes for best results. Wash off the paste with water and you will see results in no time.
Tea tree oil:
Tea tree oil is considered as one of the finest natural anti-dandruff agents. Tea tree oil has potent anti-fungal properties. Adding a few drops of tea tree oil to your shampoo does magic against symptoms of dandruff. Also, shampoos and hair care products infused with tea tree oil can also be beneficial.
How to prevent the recurrence of dandruff?
Although various effective dandruff treatment options for dandruff are available, prevention is always better than cure. Various preventive measures can be adopted to reduce their risk. These includes:
- Avoid harsh hair products, especially if you have sensitive or itchy scalp.
- Never scratch your scalp while applying shampoo. Gently massage it with your fingertips.
- Wear hats and scarves minimally, especially if they are made of synthetic materials.
- Avoid touching your scalp if it's already itchy. Touching and scratching can also introduce dirt into the mix, which can exacerbate dandruff.
- If you have dandruff related to scalp infections you can use tar shampoos.
Take away
Even while it can occasionally be inconvenient and embarrassing, dandruff is typically not a sign of a more significant health problem. Shampoos and treatments available over the counter work effectively to relieve the itching and flaking. Up until you discover something that works for you, keep attempting various brands and varieties.
FAQs
Q. What eliminates dandruff quickly?
Ans. You can use a strong anti-dandruff shampoo to assist you clean the oil and impurities from your scalp as well as the dandruff flakes. additionally, you can also use natural remedies like tea tree oil, neem packs, and aloe vera. Always remember to make the distinction between dandruff and dryness initially.
Q. Does dandruff result in hair loss?
Ans. Dandruff typically doesn't directly contribute to hair loss. But because it makes you itchy, you might scratch. Your hair follicles may become damaged as a result of this which can cause hair strands to fall off.
Q. Does lemon remove dandruff?
Ans. Yes, lemon juice can be used to treat dandruff. Lemon can successfully treat dryness and dandruff due to its composition of citric acid. By adjusting the pH level of the scalp, it contributes in lessening dandruff. The plant is antibacterial; thus, it works well at preventing the growth of fungus on the scalp as well.
Q. Is dandruff a normal condition?
Ans. The white, flaky skin that you brush off your collar or shoulders when you have dandruff is harmless. But it can also be uncomfortable and irritating. Your hair or how frequently you wash it are absolutely not factors in dandruff. It concerns your scalp's skin instead.
