DANDRUFF

WHAT IS DANDRUFF?

Dandruff is a common scalp condition characterized by the presence of white or yellowish flakes of dead skin that shed from the scalp. It is often accompanied by itching and can be caused by various factors such as dry skin, excessive oil production, fungal infections, or sensitivity to hair care products. Dandruff can be managed with proper hygiene practices, using anti-dandruff shampoos, and addressing any underlying scalp issues to reduce flaking and irritation.

What is seborrheic dermatitis?

Seborrheic dermatitis is an inflammatory skin condition that manifests as greasy, white, scaly, and sometimes oozing plaques on the scalp, accompanied by redness and itching. Dandruff is a common symptom of seborrheic dermatitis. While it can occur at any age, it is more prevalent in children and is known as cradle cap in infants. Areas of the body with a high concentration of oil-producing glands are typically affected, primarily the scalp. However, in severe cases, it can also involve the eyebrows, eyelashes, nasolabial fold, skin behind the ears, center of the chest, and upper back. Rarely, the underarm fold, groin area, and scrotum may also be affected.

Why is it caused?

While the exact cause is unknown, dandruff may be attributed to a fungus called "Malassezia," which naturally resides on the adult scalp and can lead to dandruff in certain individuals. Several factors can increase the scalp's susceptibility to dandruff, including:

• Seborrheic dermatitis: This condition can develop on the scalp and other areas rich in oil glands, such as eyebrows, back of the ears, sides of the nose, armpits, groins, and breastbone. It is characterized by greasy, flaky red or yellow scales covering the skin.
• Inadequate shampooing: Infrequent hair washing can lead to the accumulation of dirt and dead cells, contributing to dandruff.
• Dry Scalp:Excessively dry scalp skin can increase the formation of flakes and scabs.
• Contact dermatitis:Sensitivity to hair care products like dyes, colors, or hair care products can irritate the scalp, leading to dandruff.
• Psoriasis: Although psoriasis is a distinct skin condition, its early stages may resemble dandruff.
• Stress
• Hormonal changes

What does dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis look like?

Many of us are familiar with these manifestations, which can appear as:

• Oily-looking flakes shedding from the scalp onto the back and shoulders (Dandruff)
• Redness and greasy scaly, sometimes oozing plaques
• Skin cuts behind the ears
• Occasional formation of thick crusts on the scalp
• Scaling on the skin between the cheek and nose (nasolabial fold)

What are the common sites of seborrheic dermatitis

• In infants, seborrheic dermatitis typically appears on the scalp, face, and diaper area.
• In adults, seborrheic dermatitis commonly affects the scalp, eyebrows, nasolabial folds, skin behind the ears, center of the chest, upper back, underarms, groin, and scrotum.

What Are my treatment options?

Mild to moderate dandruff can almost always be controlled by over the counter anti dandruff shampoos. Here are your options:

• Pyrithione zinc shampoos:These contain zinc pyrithione, an antibacterial and antifungal agent that helps combat dandruff.
• Tar-based shampoos: They slow down the shedding of skin cells on the scalp, reducing flakiness.
• Salicylic acid shampoos:Also known as "scalp scrubs," they help remove scales but may dry out the scalp. Using a conditioner afterward can help alleviate dryness.
• Selenium sulfide shampoos:These slow down skin cell shedding and can also reduce the presence of malassezia, a common cause of dandruff.
• Ketoconazole shampoos (e.g., Nizoral): Ketoconazole is a potent antifungal that is effective when other shampoos don't work. It's available over the counter and by prescription.

What is the home care regime for dandruff?

• Maintain regular hair washing.
• Use a gentle anti-dandruff shampoo.
• Avoid harsh hair care products.
• Follow a nutritious diet and engage in regular exercise.
• Get some sun exposure daily.
• Practice stress-reduction techniques to keep stress levels low.