What is dandruff?
Dandruff (also known as seborrheic dermatitis) is the excess shedding of the top layer of the skin on the scalp, eyebrows or along the sides of the nose. This top layer of skin consists of dead cells, which protect the more fragile cells below. It is normal for these to be shed or rubbed off because the body is constantly producing new cells that simply move up to replace older ones. However, in dandruff, larger "scales" are shed at an increased rate.
Dandruff is primarily an aesthetic problem, which many people find unattractive or embarrassing. There is nothing medically serious about it. It will not lead to baldness, and it is not contagious. Itching may accompany dandruff. Usually hair follicles (roots of the hair shafts) do not become infected
Dandruff occurs as frequently in men as in women. It tends to increase in adolescence and young adulthood and decrease thereafter. Those who have acne or oily skin also tend to have more problems with dandruff.
Dandruff usually improves during the summer months, unless the weather is exceptionally hot and humid. Exposure to natural sunlight and a reduction in stress may help to control it.
Fast facts on dandruff
Here are some key points about dandruff. More detail is the main article.
Dandruff is a common condition, but it can be embarrassing and difficult to treat.
It is not related to hygiene, but washing and brushing the hair can help remove old skin flakes.
Risk factors include having certain skin or medical conditions and the use of inappropriate hair products.
Various treatments are available over the counter, but more severe cases should be seen by a doctor.
Other factors that can affect dandruff
While the root cause of dandruff is always the same, there are certain factors that can exacerbate a problem or make it seem worse.These include seasonal factors in summer and winter, external irritants like pollution and damage caused by our own actions such as toomuch heat-styling the hair.
5 natural remedies for dandruff
1.Aloe vera gel
Aloe vera is a succulent plant known for its healing properties. The gel in its leaves contains several bioactive compounds, such as amino acids and antioxidants, that may reduce dandruff.
Authors of a 2019 review examined 23 clinical trials involving Aloe vera. The findings of these studies suggest that aloe vera gel may improve moisture retention in the skin and promote wound healing. Aloe vera may also reduce inflammation, which can help people with dandruff symptoms, such as itchiness.
Research from 2015 suggests that the antifungal and antibacterial properties of Aloe vera may prevent dandruff.
The authors of a small study involving 25 people concluded that a new topical gel containing Aloe vera was effective in treating a form of dandruff called seborrheic dermatitis.
People can use aloe vera gel directly from the plant, or purchase the gel online
2.Aspirin
Aspirin is an OTC pain reliever that could potentially reduce dandruff symptoms. Aspirin contains salicylic acid, an active ingredient commonly used in dandruff shampoos.
Salicylic acid can help exfoliate excess dandruff flakes, prevent oil buildup, and reduce inflammation on the scalp.
To use salicylic acid on dandruff, try crushing one or two uncoated aspirin tablets into a fine powder and mixing the power with a dollop of regular shampoo.
In the shower, apply the mixture to the hair and leave it there for a few minutes before rinsing it out.
People can buy aspirin in pharmacies and online.
3. Baking soda
Sodium bicarbonate, which many people know as baking soda, may help reduce dandruff. Baking soda is an exfoliant that can remove excess skin cells and oil on the scalp.
Baking soda also possesses antifungal properties that may help fight the fungus responsible for dandruff.
Baking soda has a very high pH level, which can damage the scalp if a person uses it too frequently. Using too much baking soda can strip the hair of its natural oils, which can cause dryness or irritation, so people should use it in moderation.
Baking soda is available in most grocery stores, health food stores, and online.
4.Zinc
Zinc is a mineral that supports the body's immune system and promotes cell growth. People can get zinc from animal proteins, nuts, and whole grains.
According to the NIH, severe zinc deficiencies have been associated with hair loss, diarrhea, impotence, and skin lesions.
A comprehensive review from 2017 lists zinc deficiency as a potential contributing factor for seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff.
Many dandruff shampoos contain zinc pyrithione because it prevents fungal growth and removes excess skin cells from the scalp.
People can purchase zinc supplements in drug stores and online.
5.Reduce stress
Stress plays a significant role in a person's overall health. Prolonged stress can cause increases in blood pressure, heart rate, and inflammation.
Although stress may not directly cause skin disorders, it can worsen or trigger existing ones.
A Japanese study published in 2018 examined the relationship between anxiety-induced stress and atopic dermatitis. The participants with atopic dermatitis reported higher levels of anxiety than those without the condition.
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