How to Beat Dandruff

Dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis) occurs when excessive dead skin cells flake off from the scalp, resulting in itchiness and scaling of the scalp. At least five percent of adults have dandruff and more than 70 percent will experience an episode at least once in their lifetime. Some areas of the body, such as the scalp, brow, nasolabial fold (the skin between the nose and upper lip), chest, armpit and groin, have more sebum (oil) glands than other parts of the body. These areas are more prone to dandruff.

It is not known what causes dandruff, but there are several hypotheses. A fungus known as Malassezia furfur that lives on the surface of skin (especially the scalp) feeds on sebum produced by the oil glands. When the fungus multiplies, it disrupts the normal growth of skin cells, and this can cause dandruff.

Hormonal imbalance can also lead to higher sebum production and result in dandruff. This explains why some women have dandruff only on certain days of their menstrual cycle. When the immune system is weak, the oil glands are also stimulated to produce excessive sebum, thus causing dandruff.

How do you manage dandruff? Mild cases can be treated easily with medicated anti-dandruff shampoos. The three most common agents in anti-dandruff shampoos are selenium sulfide, zinc pyrithione and coal tar. These agents have anti-fungal properties and work by removing the layer of grease on the skin, thus eliminating the source of nutrients that Malassezia furfur feeds on.

Using anti-dandruff shampoos with these ingredients may make your hair drier than ususal. Thus, it is recommended that you use a hair-conditioner after treatment with an anti-dandruff shampoo.

Some people with moderate or severe dandruff may require a stronger anti-dandruff shampoo that can only be prescribed by a doctor. Consult your physician if all your attempts to prevent and treat dandruff have failed. To stop the spread of dandruff, reduce your stress level, get sufficient sleep, eat a healthy diet, be more physically active and shampoo your hair at least once a day.

Beating dandruff improves self-confidence and helps you avoid social embarrassment when you are with people. Get rid of dandruff today by picking up an effective anti-dandruff shampoo at your pharmacy!