Dandruff: what is it and how to avoid it?
Have you ever felt the necessity to scratch the head? You might be suffering from dandruff, the skin condition that affects the scalp. Dandruff is a common condition that can affect both women and men causing the skin on the scalp to flake. At some point, most people can experience dandruff, this condition can be caused at any age.
There are many possible factors (it is not clear why dandruff occurs) that can cause dandruff, for example; eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, or allergic reactions like an allergy to a shampoo. Dandruff is considered a mild form of seborrheic dermatitis.
Symptoms of dandruff
Usually, dandruff does not require a consultation with a doctor. However, you can consult your dermatologist if the condition does not disappear. The symptoms can include:
- Itchy scalp
- Scaly scalp
- Skin flakes on the scalp
- Irritated and dry skin
- The appearance of yeastlike fungus (Malassezia)
- Sensitivity to hair products.
Dandruff usually does not have a lot of symptoms to worry about. However, those can increase the risk if the patient is under pressure and stress due to the symptoms may flare. In addition to avoiding cold or dry seasons.
As a fun fact, men are more likely to suffer from dandruff, just like hair loss. Some researchers say that male hormones could be some of the factors that cause dandruff in men.
Avoid dandruff
Even though dandruff usually does not need a doctor, in case of visiting one, it will be easy for him to realize it only by looking at the hair and scalp. This condition can be removed by dandruff shampoos. In addition to changing habits of lifestyle to prevent its appearance such as:
- Products for hair: It is recommended to limit hair products, they can build up on the hair, causing hair and scalp to be oiler.
- Healthy diet: Believe it or not, diet is a special element for the scalp and hair. Try to add enough B vitamins, certain fats, and zinc to your diet. This way you will be able to prevent dandruff.
- Avoid or manage stress: As we mentioned before, stress can be a factor that causes dandruff and it also affects your health. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid it or manage it.
- Shampoo: Daily shampooing may prevent dandruff in case of having an oily scalp. It is important to massage the scalp gently.
People who suffer from dandruff rarely have complications, but in some cases, they can occur as; the signs of eczema, psoriasis, and the mentioned before, or infections such as redness, tenderness, or swelling. In case of noticing any of these complications. It is recommended to consult a dermatologist to know the treatment you may need to remove the condition. It is important to avoid auto medication.
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