Dandruff is one of the most common scalp conditions which is characterized by flaking and itching and it is non-inflammatory in nature. There could be one of three reasons of dandruff; Overgrowth of Malassezia Fungi, Secretion of certain substances from Sebaceous gland, and Individual Sensitivity and the most effective treatment rely on Reduction in fungi which reduces free fatty acids, thereby reducing scalp flaking and itch.
What is the cause of dandruff?
While there are many factors which can cause dandruff such as improper cleaning of hair, overbrushing, unhealthy eating habits and even some personal care products, however, we are only going to discuss the causes that are recognized by science and can help you deal with dandruff. Three of those are discussed below.
- Overgrowth of Malassezia
Overgrowth of MalasseziaFungi results in dandruff. How? Malassezia feeds off natural scalp oil while breaking it down into byproducts including oleic acid.
- Sebaceous Secretion
When sebaceous secretion takes place, the low level of Malassezia presents there has a new food source and multiply, resulting in the scalp itching and flaking which is common in about 50% of the adults.
Sebaceous Glands and many like this are present in our skin layers and even scalp. To understand how our skin is structured, read Skin & Skin Types: A Comprehensive Study Backed By Science
- Individual Susceptibility
Some people are more prone to dandruff than others. These individuals are likely to have a defective skin barrier that lets fungi enter the deeper part of the scalp which can cause the release of sebum, an irritating byproduct and eventually causing dandruff.
What is the treatment for Dandruff?
There is no permanent solution for Dandruff, however it can be treated as it comes. As the causes of Dandruff shared above, it can be treated by inhibiting the growth of Malassezia, limiting Sebaceous Secretion and monitoring Individual’s Susceptibly to certain things.
Some natural and some synthetic ingredients are found to be very effective when it comes to treating Dandruff. A few of them are discussed below.
1. Zinc Pyrithione
This is one of the best ant-dandruff treatments out there. It’s an active ingredient which has been able to treat dandruff effectively for over 50 years.
You can look for the presence of this ingredient while buying shampoo for your hair. There are endless options available out there.
What’s good about this ingredient is that it has anti-microbial properties and that too broad spectrum meaning, it can help killing or inhibiting the growth of various types of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria including fungi, responsible for causing dandruff.
2. 5% Tea Tree Oil Shampoo
Tea Tree Oil has anti-fungal properties which can help in killing or inhibiting the growth of fungi and bacteria. Since Dandruff is majorly caused by Malassezia, a type of fungi, it can greatly help in the treatment.
Study concluded that 5% Tea Tree Oil is effective and well tolerated in the treatment of dandruff. Not only that, but Tea Tree Oil also helps in the treatment of acne, lice and other such conditions.
3. Ketoconazole
This an also an anti-fungal ingredient which is widely used in the treatment of Dandruff. It works against Malassezia fungi and provide relief from itching, flaky scalp and scaling. However, for the best result, it should be used twice a week in the initial phase of the treatment and later once a week to prevent dandruff.
4. Col Tar
Look for Col Tar in your shampoo. It is effective in the treatment of dandruff and other hair conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis.
Coal tar works by shedding the dead skin cells from the top layer of the skin which decreases scaling and dryness and therefore helps in the treatment of dandruff effectively.
However, be sure to avoid this getting in contact with your eyes, nose and mouth etc., as it may cause irritation.
5. Selenium Sulfide
This is an anti-fungal ingredient which targets Malassezia, a fungus responsible for causing dandruff. It also reduces the overproduction of sebum on the scalp which ultimately helps in the treatment.
As per the study published in Cureus journal, the 2.5% selenium sulfide shampoo is effective in management of dandruff and related symptoms like itching, oiliness and greasiness etc.
How to deal with Dandruff? Quick Tips.
- Manage Stress
High Level of Stress can worsen dandruff and can affect your hair growth, its cycle and may even cause hair loss. So, it’s essential to manage stress which can be done by practicing healthy habits, such as eating a balanced diet, working out, yoga and playing with pets or kids.
- Stay Hydrated
Hydration is the solution for most of your problems related to skin. Drink enough water daily to avoid dehydration of skin and scalp. It can help your hair grow better, stronger and minimize the chances of breakage and hair fall while adding volume.
- Eat Healthy
Eating healthy is the habit you should inculcate in your life. It can solve so many problems at once and not just the problems related to your hair. Eat a balanced diet rich in zinc, Vitamin-B, and healthy fats. These nutrients are essential for healthy skin and can help prevent dandruff as well.
- Shampoo Regularly
Wash your hair regularly, at least twice a week, which can help to remove excess oil and the dead skin cells which may contribute to dandruff. While adding shampoo to your bucket, look for ingredients mentioned earlier such as Zinc Pyrithione , Tea Tree, Col Tar etc.
- Avoid Harsh Products
Make sure that you avoid the products containing ingredients such as Sulphates, Parabens, Phthalates and Toluene etc. These are harmful for your hair and may cause your hair to break and damage and even tangle ultimately leading to hair fall.
- Avoid Heat Drying
While drying your hair with a hair dryer, make sure that you dry your hair to the extent of 80% and let the rest dry naturally. Not only will this avoid draining the moisture from your hair completely which can tangle your hair but also help in avoiding the damage to your hair.
Conclusion
While there are various tips and techniques available out there which can help you with dandruff. It is eventually up to you to pick the ones which are most suitable for your hair. To avoid dandruff, try hair products containing ingredients discussed above and if the problem persists, consult your doctor.
