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Dandruff, a common condition, leads to the shedding of skin flakes from the scalp. While not serious or contagious, it can be uncomfortable and challenging to manage. This condition is a mild form of seborrheic dermatitis.
For mild dandruff, using a gentle daily washing routine can be effective in treatment. If the previous approach proves ineffective, utilizing a medicated shampoo could be beneficial. However, recurrence of symptoms is possible.
Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of dandruff might consist:
- Scalp itchiness
- Skin flaking on your shoulders, scalp, hair, beard, and mustache.
- Infants with cradle cap have a scaly, crusty scalp.
Stress can exacerbate the signs and symptoms, which also tend to worsen during the cold, dry months.
Most individuals dealing with dandruff typically do not require medical intervention. However, if consistent use of dandruff shampoo does not lead to improvement, it’s advisable to consult your primary care physician or a dermatologist for further guidance.
Causes
Dandruff may result from a number of factors, such as:
- Dry skin
- Oily skin that is irritated
- Increased androgen hormone
- Contact dermatitis, a sensitivity to cosmetics or products used on the hair
- The majority of people have malassezia, a yeast–like fungus that feeds on their scalp oils.
- Other skin issues including eczema and psoriasis
Risk factors
While dandruff can affect nearly anyone, certain factors can elevate your susceptibility:
- Age. Dandruff typically starts in adolescence and lasts until middle life. That does not imply that older people do not develop dandruff. The issue may persist lifelong for some individuals.
- Gender. Males are more likely than females to have dandruff.
- Some diseases. The chance of developing dandruff seems to be increased by conditions like Parkinson’s disease and other illnesses of the nervous system. Additionally, having HIV or a compromised immune system.
Diagnosis
Oftentimes, a medical professional can identify the presence of dandruff simply by inspecting your hair and scalp.
Treatment
The itchiness and flaking associated with dandruff can typically be effectively managed. To address mild dandruff and minimize the accumulation of oil and skin cells, consider using regular hair washing using a mild shampoo. If this approach proves ineffective, using a medicated dandruff shampoo is recommended. Some individuals may find benefit in using a medicated shampoo two to three times per week, while using regular shampoo on other days as necessary. For those with drier hair, infrequent shampooing along with a hydrating conditioner can be advantageous.
Various hair and scalp products, both medicated and non–medicated, are available in forms such as solutions, foams, gels, sprays, ointments, and oils. Finding the most suitable routine may involve trying out different products, and sustained or extended treatment may be necessary.
Discontinue the use of any product if it leads to sensations of stinging or irritation. In case of experiencing symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as a rash, hives, or breathing difficulties, cease product use immediately and seek urgent medical attention.
Shampoos for dandruff are categorized based on the medication they include. Some are accessible by prescription in stronger forms.
- Tar–based shampoos. On your scalp, coal tar reduces the rate at which skin cells deteriorate and fall off. This kind of shampoo could discolor your hair if it is light in color. Additionally, it may increase the scalp’s sensitivity to sunlight.
- Shampoos containing salicylic acid. Treats scaling.
- Selenium sulfide shampoos. They include an antifungal substance. Because they can discolor the hair and scalp, use these products as indicated and thoroughly rinse after shampooing.
- Pyrithione zinc shampoos. These include an antibacterial and antifungal substance zinc pyrithione.
- Fluocinolone shampoos. These products contain a corticosteroid to help control itching, flaking and irritation.
- Ketoconazole shampoos. The goal of this shampoo is to eradicate the fungus that reside on your scalp and cause dandruff.
If you initially find relief with one type of dandruff shampoo but notice its effectiveness wanes over time, consider alternating between two different dandruff shampoos. As you gain control over your dandruff, you can reduce the frequency of using the medicated shampoo and transition to using it less often for maintenance and preventive purposes.
You should read and abide by the instructions on every shampoo bottle you use. While some products must be rapidly rinsed off, others must be left on for a few minutes.
Speak with your doctor or dermatologist if you’ve been using medicated shampoo regularly for a few weeks but still have dandruff. You might require a steroid lotion or a shampoo with prescription strength.
