Dandruff
Dandruff is a common scalp condition affecting millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by flaking and itching of the scalp. While it is not a contagious or serious condition, it can be a cause of discomfort and a source of embarrassment. At SkinAccess Clinics, we offer expert care to help manage dandruff effectively and restore scalp health.
What is Dandruff?
Dandruff is a chronic scalp condition characterized by the shedding of dead skin cells. It is often associated with itching and irritation and the flakes are often visible on hair and clothing. Dandruff can present at any age but is most common during adolescence and adulthood. Generally, dandruff is a mild condition, however, at times it could be more severe and require medical treatment.
Symptoms of Dandruff
Symptoms of dandruff are easy to identify. They are
Flaking
Yellowish or white flakes of dead skin on the scalp, hair and shoulders.
Itching
Constant itchiness on the scalp, which may worsen in cold or dry weather.
Dryness or Greasiness
Depending on the underlying cause, the scalp may feel dry and tight or greasy and oily.
Redness & Irritation
If there is persistent scratching, the scalp may become red and inflamed.
Causes of Dandruff
The exact cause of dandruff is not known; however, several factors are believed to contribute to it.
A common skin condition affecting areas rich in oil glands, including the scalp. It can cause red, greasy skin covered with flaky yellow or white scales.
A yeast-like fungus that lives on the scalp and feeds on oils secreted by hair follicles. For some individuals, it can cause an overgrowth of skin cells, leading to dandruff.
Dandruff tends to develop when the scalp becomes too dry, particularly in cold and dry weather.
Excessive oil production can lead to the buildup of skin cells and oil on the scalp, causing dandruff.
Underlying conditions like psoriasis and eczema can cause flaking of the skin, similar to dandruff.
Infrequent shampooing or hypersensitivity to certain hair products can lead to or worsen dandruff.
Diagnosis of Dandruff
A physical examination is conducted by a dermatologist, where the severity of the condition is assessed. The characteristic flaking will be easily visible. A patient history review will be done to identify any possible underlying skin conditions that may lead to dandruff. At times, a skin scraping may be performed to rule out other scalp conditions like psoriasis or fungal infections.
Management and Treatment of Dandruff
In most cases, dandruff can be treated with over-the-counter treatments, but in some persistent or severe cases, medical intervention may be needed. At SkinAccess Clinics, we offer a range of treatment options that best suit your specific needs.
➥ Medicated Shampoos:
- Anti-Fungal Shampoos: Ingredients such as ketoconazole or selenium sulfide target the Malassezia fungus to reduce flaking.
- Salicylic Acid Shampoos: This helps to exfoliate the scalp and remove dead skin cells.
- Coal Tar Shampoos: It slows down the shedding of skin and reduces flaking.
➥ Topical Treatments:
- Steroid Lotions or Creams: These may be prescribed for more severe cases to reduce inflammation and itching.
- Tea Tree Oil: Some studies have indicated the use of tea tree oil helps reduce dandruff due to its antifungal properties.
➥ Lifestyle & Hair Care Modifications:
- Regular Shampooing: Regular shampooing with a mild shampoo can help reduce oil buildup and prevent flaking.
- Scalp Care: Avoid harsh hair products and the use of styling products that can cause scalp irritation.
- Diet & Nutrition: A balanced diet containing vitamin B, zinc and essential fatty acids can help improve scalp health.
➥ Professional Treatments:
- Scalp Treatments: Professional scalp treatments like deep cleansing and exfoliation can help manage dandruff more effectively.
- Laser Therapy: In some cases, low-level light therapy may be used to improve scalp health and reduce dandruff.
Conclusion
Dandruff is a very common and manageable condition that can be effectively treated with the right treatment plan. If you are struggling with persistent dandruff, SkinAccess Clinics offers expert solutions to help you regain control of your condition and restore your scalp’s health. Schedule a consultation with us today to learn more about the best treatment options to treat your dandruff quickly and effectively!