Dandruff is a condition characterized by white flakes of dead skin in the hair and on the shoulders. Most dandruff sufferers also experience itching on the scalp, yet scratching the itch only serves to irritate the condition.
There are several conditions that can cause dandruff flakes. Many people believe dry skin is the cause of dandruff, but this is not true. While dry skin on the scalp can cause the skin to be itchy and flaky, the flakes from dry skin are smaller and not as oily as true dandruff. Dandruff can, however, be caused by overactive oil glands located on the scalp, which can speed up the skin’s natural shedding process. Also, the oil glands may become clogged and cause the skin to become overly dry and flaky.
Another possible cause of dandruff is a fungus that is found on the scalp. Some people have a sensitivity to this fungus, while others have too much fungal growth. Poor hygiene, a poor diet, infections, hormones, and simple genetics can also contribute to dandruff. Certain environmental factors, such as cold weather, poor rinsing of the hair or failure to shampoo often enough, tight hats, and a generally dry environment, can aggravate the scalp and cause dandruff. In addition, individuals who are prone to dandruff may experience it more when they are feeling stressed.
While dandruff is most commonly treated with special medicated shampoos, there are several steps a person can take to avoid developing dandruff in the first place. One helpful step is to learn to properly manage stress, as stress has an effect on a person’s overall health and makes it more likely for conditions such as dandruff to develop. In addition, stress can worsen dandruff symptoms in those who are already experiencing it.
It is also important to shampoo regularly. Individuals with an oily scalp should shampoo every day in order to remove excess oil from the scalp that can lead to dandruff. Similarly, the amount of styling products used on the hair should be kept to a minimum, as they tend to build up in the hair and cause the scalp to become oily. Maintaining a healthy diet that includes whole grains, fresh fruit, fresh vegetables, and little lean protein can also be beneficial. In addition, it is best to avoid getting too much sun, but a little exposure to sunlight is helpful in preventing dandruff.