What Causes Dandruff And How To Get Rid Of Dandruff

How is Dandruff Formed?

Let us walk you through the process leading to the existence of hair dandruff.

1. A fungus, when overactive, feeds on sebum – an essential natural scalp oil – and thus, depletes hair of its natural oils and moisture.
2. This sebum breaks down to certain acidic by-product that is harmful for the health of the scalp.
3. The scalp responds to the presence of the disturbing by-product by turning red and itchy.
4. In an attempt to shed the unwanted by-product, the body signals the brain to shed skin faster, resulting in dead skin cells visible as white flakes falling off the scalp.
5. This is the stage where you keep shrugging your shoulders hoping the snowflakes would come to a halt.

Types of Dandruff

1. Wet dandruff

Wet dandruff is the result of extreme sebum production, which leaves oily scales on the scalp. This type of dandruff is exacerbated if the humid scalp attracts more dirt and is inadequately washed. Thus, the build-up of excess oil and sebum on scalp incites wet dandruff.

2. Oily dandruff

Oily dandruff also known as greasy dandruff, occurs when you don’t shampoo your hair enough, leading to accumulation of skin cells and flaking. Washing your hair less often makes your hair greasy and scalp oily, triggering oily scalp dandruff.

3. Dry dandruff

Dry dandruff is caused by fungal or scalp infection resulting in itchy and flaky scalp. A dry scalp that is void of moisture piques dry dandruff.

Dandruff Symptoms

The early signs of dandruff preceding flakes include:

1. Dryness and Tightness

Excessive dandruff destroys your skin’s natural moisture barrier and allows the moisture to escape, leaving the scalp dry and tight. Even after adequate combing, the hair seems to lose its lustre and becomes unmanageable.

2. Itchiness and Inflammation

Experiencing itchiness on the scalp due to dead cells and a flaky scalp is the most common dandruff symptom. Itchy scalp causes irritation which consequently leads to redness.

3. Hair Fall

It is normal to experience hair fall, but if you lose hair strands at a higher rate, it might be a symptom of dandruff. 25-30 is the average number of hair strands one loses every day.

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4. Acne

Although not directly related, the severity of dandruff encourages the sudden outbreak of pimples on face. Tackling dandruff from the root, takes care of the acne. Avoid getting dandruff on face as it triggers acne.

What Causes Dandruff?

Now that you have answers for what is dandruff, scan the underlying reasons for dandruff. It a common misconception that poor hygiene is a responsible dandruff cause. However, it’s not always the only reason for dandruff.

1. Existing skin and medical conditions

People with eczema, psoriasis and other skin disorders are more prone to dandruff issues. Also, people suffering from Parkinson’s disease or some other neurological illnesses are known to have dandruff.

2. Improper hair care regime

Not sure if you are shampooing enough? Shampooing too frequently can irritate the scalp and shampooing less often can cause accumulation of dirt and oil on the scalp. In either case, dandruff is a given. Also, certain hair products that don’t suit you, can react and prove to be a prime dandruff cause.

3. Overusing hair styling equipment

Love playing around with heat styling instruments on a daily basis? We have got news for ya. Excessive use of harsh hair styling equipment, such as blow dryer and straightener can deplete the hair of its natural moisture and increase dryness which consequentially leads to dandruff. Ensure you straighten your hair only occasionally and use protective hair styling creams. Climbazole enriched Brylcreem Dandruff Protect Styling Cream, lets you groom your hair while providing 24-hour Anti Dandruff Action.

4. Following a poor diet

Can’t keep calm until you consume that last chip in the packet? Excessive consumption of junk or unhealthy food is known to escalate dandruff. Also, insufficient water intake clogs pores and increases the probability of dandruff. It is essential to maintain a nutrient-rich diet.

5. Inviting extreme stress

Is your job giving you an existential crisis? Well sorry to be the bearer of bad news but all that stress shows up on your scalp. Mental stress if not handled well, can create a smooth driveway for dandruff to arrive and ruin your pretty hair. Ensure a healthy sleep cycle and find ways to control stress.

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Lastly, let us tend to that lingering question that must be hovering around your head by now. Is dandruff contagious? No. So don’t let dandruff be the reason you ditch your BFF.

Different Places Where Dandruff can be Found

Dandruff doesn’t just show up on the scalp. It is known to open branches even on eyebrows, eyes, and behind the ear. Basically any part of skin that can over-stimulate oil production. Dandruff no matter where it is found is usually caused by the same underlying reasons.

1. Eyebrow dandruff

Dandruff on eyebrows is caused by improper response of the immune system coupled with stress.

2. Ear dandruff

Dandruff on ears can occur due to dehydration, stress, swimming in chlorinated water, sun exposure, or smoking. Excessive dryness of the skin can cause skin dandruff.

3. Head dandruff

Dandruff on head can be caused due to oily skin, skimpy hair wash regime, sensitivity to hair products or not oiling your hair enough leading to extreme dryness.

4. Eyelash dandruff

Dandruff on eyelash is caused by bacterial or fungal infection and dry eyes.