Dandruff doesn't just cause flake buildup on the scalp; it can also lead to annoying itching and scalp inflammation, which may contribute to hair loss.
Despite the varying causes of dandruff, there are many effective products for treatment. But what active ingredients should be present in the dandruff shampoo you choose? And how do you protect yourself from dandruff?
Prominent Types of Dandruff
Dandruff is not a single type, and the treatment method may vary depending on the specific kind:
1. Dry Dandruff
It is white or gray in color and detaches easily, often falling onto your shoulders. It may be accompanied by mild itching, and these light flakes shed easily during hair combing.
This type usually results from a dry scalp, which can be caused by:
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Cold weather.
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Using harsh shampoos.
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Not drinking enough water.
2. Oily Dandruff
Oily dandruff occurs when the scalp produces too much oil (sebum), causing skin cells to clump together and form larger, greasy flakes.
These flakes are often yellow and stick to the scalp, making it appear greasy at times, and may be accompanied by itching and mild scalp redness.
3. Fungal Dandruff
Fungal dandruff is caused by an overgrowth of natural fungi on the scalp, leading to irritation, redness, and flaking.
This often happens due to increased oil, moisture, or hormonal changes. Antifungal shampoos help treat this type of dandruff.
Causes of Dandruff
The most important causes of dandruff appearance include:
1. Malassezia
Dandruff is a sign of seborrheic dermatitis, which is caused by the overgrowth of a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia.
Malassezia is a normal part of the skin microbiome that maintains its health, but sometimes there is an overgrowth, leading to inflammation and abnormal skin growth. It is not entirely clear why Malassezia overgrows in some people.
2. Oily Skin
Excessive amounts of skin oils can lead to dandruff. Sebaceous glands may be overactive at times, such as during hormonal changes like puberty.
The glands produce more oil in the hair follicles and on the skin, and excess oil can lead to the growth of skin fungi that cause dandruff.
3. Dry Skin
Excessive dryness of the scalp skin can also lead to dandruff in some people. The exact reason for this is not fully clear, but a decrease in certain skin lipids may disrupt the natural protective barrier, leading to increased flaking and scalp irritation.
4. Scalp Irritation
Anything that causes irritation or damage to the scalp skin can lead to dandruff. Irritated skin can damage the natural protective barrier, and the skin may then try to heal the damage by overproducing cells, which accumulate and flake off. Skin can be irritated by:
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Hot showers.
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Heat styling.
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Hair care products containing alcohol.
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Sunburn on the scalp.
5. Allergy to Hair Care Products
Common causes of skin irritation include hair products; strong soaps or other chemicals may cause skin irritation or contact dermatitis, which can lead to dandruff.
If you think the hair product you are using is exacerbating your dandruff, try to stop using it.
6. Stress
If you notice that your dandruff tends to worsen when you feel stressed, it may play a role. There is evidence that stress can affect your skin health and make you more prone to certain skin problems, including dandruff.
7. Humidity Changes
Some people notice that their dandruff worsens during the winter. It isn't actually the winter that causes dandruff, but rather the drop in humidity; the air becomes drier, making the skin drier, including the skin on the scalp.
What are the Main Symptoms of Dandruff?
The primary symptoms of dandruff are a flaky scalp and itching. Oily flakes typically accumulate in the hair and on the shoulders and often worsen during autumn and winter. Symptoms can also include:
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Inflamed patches on the scalp skin and sometimes on the face.
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Eyebrow dandruff.
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Hair loss.
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Dry flakes on the facial skin.
How to Get Rid of Dandruff Completely?
Experts usually recommend dandruff shampoos and certain scalp treatments to treat dandruff and Hair Loss Treatment.
The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) recommends the following steps to treat dandruff:
1. Follow the Instructions
Since there are many different types of dandruff treatment shampoos, each with its own specific directions, it is important to read the instructions carefully for any product you choose.
Make sure you know how long to leave the shampoo on the scalp before rinsing, or whether it should be rinsed immediately.
2. Determine Hair and Skin Type
This step is essential for choosing the right shampoo type; people with curly or coarse hair should wash their hair as needed and use dandruff shampoo once a week.
Meanwhile, people with fine hair may need to wash their hair daily and use dandruff shampoo twice a week. It may be best to consult a doctor to determine the best products for your hair.
Active Ingredients in Dandruff Shampoo
Dandruff shampoos contain ingredients that loosen flakes from the scalp or target the overgrowth of the Malassezia fungus. These ingredients may include:
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Selenium sulfide.
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Ketoconazole.
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Zinc pyrithione.
Best Shampoos for Dandruff Treatment
AlJawaher Almotamayza Pharmacies provide a range of Hair care products, which support dandruff treatment, but it is preferable to consult a dermatologist first to accurately determine what suits your hair to ensure results:
1. Medavita Requilibre Sebum-Balancing Shampoo - 250 ml
Medavita dandruff shampoo treats an oily scalp and reduces excess oil secretion. It deeply cleanses the scalp without drying it out or weakening the hair.
2. Anivagene Anti-Dandruff Shampoo - 200 ml
Anivagene anti-dandruff shampoo eliminates the microbes that cause dandruff, reduces itching and scalp inflammation, and restores natural oil secretion in cases of oily dandruff.
3. Vavo Shampoo - 100 ml
Vavo anti-dandruff shampoo contains the active ingredient Ketoconazole 2%, an antifungal that treats the fungi responsible for dandruff.
Tips for Preventing Dandruff
The following tips are recommended to prevent dandruff and enjoy healthy, shiny hair:
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Cleanse the scalp regularly.
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Use the appropriate shampoo for your scalp type without overdoing it.
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Reduce stress as much as possible, as it may contribute to the development of dandruff.
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Massage the scalp, which may help prevent dandruff symptoms.
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Comb hair at least twice a day when it is damp.
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Protect the scalp from sunlight by wearing a wide-brimmed hat.
When Should You Consult a Doctor?
Dandruff shampoo is usually sufficient for treatment, but if your condition does not improve, you may need to consult a doctor to ensure your symptoms are not linked to another medical issue, such as psoriasis or eczema, as such conditions will not improve without targeted treatments.
