Dandruff

Overview

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.