Most people are familiar with the telltale signs of dandruff which are white dried skin flakes in the hair. The condition is not contagious; However, your scalp might itch.
What Causes Dandruff
The exact cause of the condition remains unknown. Some researchers believe that hormones might play a role in the development of dandruff since it seems to start at puberty. Possible causes include:
- Seborrheic dermatitis
- Insufficient hair brushing
- Dry skin
- Yeast
- Not rinsing out hair care products
- Certain skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and tinea capitis
- Medical conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, HIV, and individuals with cardiovascular disease.
- Diet
- Vitamin deficiency
- Dandruff is likely to occur from adolescence through adulthood, but generally tapers off in older adults and is rare in children.
- Stress
- Males are more prone towards developing dandruff than females
- Individuals with oily hair often suffer from dandruff more frequently than people with dry hair types.
How to Treat Dandruff
Many people purchase specialized shampoos to effectively treat the condition. You should shampoo your hair frequently using the anti-dandruff shampoo until the symptoms disappear. Always let the shampoo remain on your head for at least five minutes before you rinse it out. Ideally, the shampoo should contain one of the following active ingredients:
- Ketoconazole:
- Selenium sulfide
- Zinc pyrithione
- Coal tar:
- Salicylic acids
- Tea-tree oil