The Science Behind: Dandruff

More often than not, the cause of an itchy scalp is dandruff, one of the pests our body has to deal with. But how does this even appear in your head anyway, and how do you get rid of it?

According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms of dandruff include "skin flakes on your scalp, hair, eyebrows, beard or mustache, and shoulders", and an "itchy scalp".

Causes:

Dandruff is caused by a number of conditions. Sometimes a certain fungus called malassezia is the root problem. Everyone has them in the skin and scalp and they love the oil in hair. It is pretty common, especially in adults. The only issue is when it starts to overgrow.

Irritated skin can also be an issue. Unfortunately, in colder weather, your skin gets drier, and you know what that means - you're more susceptible to dandruff!

Dandruff also comes with age, the prime time being young adulthood to middle age. However, it still happens in old age.

The doctor mentioned in henryford.com notes that, "not shampooing enough could be the cause of your dandruff." Not shampooing can lead to oil build up on your scalp, which can cause dandruff. Malassezia can be attracted to this overgrowth too, which, as we know, can cause dandruff as well. But even if you shampoo, you can still get a bad case of dandruff! The shampoo you use might not be very effective in terms of breaking down oil barriers. And if you can't break down the barrier, it'll just keep growing!

Treatment:

The best way to get rid of dandruff is through using shampoos targeted towards dandruff, like over-the-counter dandruff shampoo. According to Harvard Health Publishing, these kinds of shampoos typically contain, "zinc, selenium, or ketoconazole." These materials help vanquish dandruff. However, if a case is so severe that this treatment doesn't work, try using prescription - strength medication. A doctor's consultation is necessary for this procedure.

Dermatologists know how annoying dandruff can be. Thanks to them, we know how to cure it and we don't have to live with an irritated scalp! I hope you learned something from this article and can use these tips the next time malassezia and oil decides to put a downer on your day!

Love,

A.C.

Sources:

1) https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dandruff/symptoms-causes/syc-20353850

2) https://www.henryford.com/blog/2016/11/5-causes-dandruff-treat

3)https://www.health.harvard.edu/skin-and-hair/what-is-the-best-way-to-treat-severe-dandruff