Deconstructing dandruff: Getting to the “roots” of the issue
How many times have you almost missed being the most debonair gent or lady in the gathering by just a few yellowish-white flakes on your Giorgio Armani suit? Embarrassing isn’t it? Well, as they say amigos knowledge is the key to winning almost half of your battles.
Skin problems among Indians
Dandruff
23.60%
Acne
11.90%
Dryness
11.40%
Itching
10.50%
Rashes
5.40%
Ringworm
2.80%
Eczema
2.10%
Psoraises
1.60%
Herpes
0.60%
Let’s get cracking on the myths surrounding the pretty common flaky stuff called dandruff, resulting in an irresistible urge to scratch your scalp (we suggest not going down that route though!), and of course the factors responsible for its occurrence.
Nailing the basics: What is dandruff?
For starters, it is quite prevalent in the adult world, with almost half the population reporting some form of flakiness. With the men reporting more incidences of it, it usually peaks in severity around age twenty, and the graph starts going downhill around the age of fifty. What's more? The babies have it too! In their case it is referred to as cradle cap. So it is pretty much evident that you are not alone in battling a flaky and itchy scalp.
Here we come to an important point garnering discussion. Often people tend to confuse, as well as conflate the occurrence of a dry scalp with dandruff. The two conditions may both manifest similar symptoms namely, falling flakes and an itchy scalp, albeit they harbor different connotations. In case of a dry scalp, the skin sloughs and flakes off, whereas in the case of dandruff, the cause is the prevalence of too much oil on the scalp.
A more severe form of dandruff is seborrheic dermatitis, caused by yeast like fungus called Malassezia which involves additional discomfiture such as a red, flaky, crusty, or greasy appearance on your face, eyebrows, ears, upper chest, or groin. Seborrheic dermatitis tends to run in families.
Myths revolving around dandruff: Factors which are not responsible for developing the condition
Before we make our way towards the factors responsible for causing dandruff, it seems imperative that we pin-point the factors which are not responsible for causing the same.
It's manifestation is not related to poor hygiene; albeit proper washing and brushing can help get rid of old residues and skin flakes.
It is not caused by an allergic reaction.
It does not harm the body though it may look embarrassing!
The condition is not contagious.
Causes of dandruff: What your itchy scalp is trying to tell you!
Get your mojo on with some grub on the factors responsible for the itchy flaky scalp and get cracking on countering those. Viola! Your battle against snowy shoulders is already half won!
Not brushing your mane enough
Regular brushing or combing of the hair reduces the risk of developing the condition as it aids in normal shedding of the dead skin and removal of buildup.
Inadequate exposure to Sun
Research says that UVA rays from the sun help in counteracting the effects of the yeast responsible for causing dandruff.
Weather conditions and resulting dryness
Have you noticed accelerated flaking in winters and a drier, itchier scalp? Well, the weather is to blame amigos. Harshly cold dry winter air combined with overheated rooms is the perfect recipe for itchy and flaking skin and scalp.
Using OTC shampoos and skin care products
If a particular shampoo brand works for your friend, the same may not work for you resulting in an aggravated and itchy scalp. Switch to organically made, personalized products by Bare Anatomy which are tailor made to suit your particular requirements.
Prevalence of particular skin conditions
Those afflicted with skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema or scalp ringworm, tend to report higher incidences of developing dandruff.
Occurrence of medical conditions
Those with a weaker immune system, adults suffering from Parkinson’s disease, or those who have recently had a cardiac arrest or more inclined towards exhibiting symptoms of the condition in question. Studies have shown that 30-83% of people with HIV develop seborrheic dermatitis in comparison with 3-5% of general population.
Unbalanced diet
The importance of consuming a balanced diet which is rich in zinc, Vitamin B etc. cannot be reiterated enough.
Stress
More technically distress (instead of eu-stress, which keeps is motivated and is actually good!) can wreak havoc on your immune system resulting in decreased immunity towards dandruff causing yeast infections. Resort to a more chilled out lifestyle, one interspersed with yoga, frequent vacations, or walks in the nature with a loved one.
Age
The prevalence of dandruff may be lifelong however it peaks during adolescence and may recur in middle age.
Gender
Males tend to report higher incidences of developing the condition.
Well, that’s a wrap folks. Stay tuned for more grub on all things hair coming your way!
Sources:
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fcimb.2018.00346/full
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2887514/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dandruff
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FAQs
To take care of your hair, you need to follow the given tips:
1. Oil your hair once a week.
2. Shampoo your hair at least 2 times a week.
3. Apply a conditioner after shampoo.
4. Apply a hair mask for added nourishment to hair and scalp.
5. Opt for hair products as per your concerns
A curly hair male should ideally follow a curly hair care routine to give definition to their curls and keep them healthy. It is also recommended opt for products in the curl hair range including a shampoo, mask, and leave-in conditioner. Along with this, drinking enough water and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential while taking care of curls.
Every day, detangle your hair gently. You can even gently cleanse your hair with a mild shampoo if needed, and use a conditioner to keep it hydrated and manageable. Additionally, protect your hair from heat and environmental damage by using a leave-in conditioner or heat protectant spray, and avoid excessive styling or harsh treatments.
To get perfect hair, follow a proper hair care routine including shampoo, conditioner, mask, and serum. Also, maintain a healthy lifestyle, eat a balanced diet, and complete your daily water intake.
Using the correct products according to your hair type can help make it stronger. Oiling your hair also promotes strength to your hair.
Opting for the right products as per your hair concerns plays an important role in improving hair quality. Besides this, following a healthy lifestyle also enhances hair quality.
Follow these simple tips to take care of colored hair:
1. Always use a Color Protect shampoo.
2. To keep your hair soft, apply a hair mask.
3. Apply a leave-in conditioner for added protection.
4. Don't use heat styling tools without hair protection.
5. Opt for sulphate-free hair care products
6. Wash your hair only with lukewarm or cold water.
Good hair hygiene prevents scalp infections and dandruff. It promotes healthy hair growth and reduces breakage. It also improves overall hair appearance and texture.
To get silky hair, use a pre-shampoo mask, gentle shampoo, and deep conditioning mask, then apply serum to damp hair and comb gently. Also, sleep on a silk pillowcase to reduce friction. Choose products as per your hair porosity for best results.
A proper hair care routine includes shampoo, conditioners, hair masks, and serums.
Choosing the right hair care products depend on your hair type. For straight hair, use smoothing shampoo, light conditioner, and anti-frizz serum. For wavy and curly hair, opt for hydrating shampoo, deep conditioner, and curl-enhancing products.
More Related Terms
Frizz | Hair Care Regime | Hairfall Tips | Hairfall Mask | Hair Serum Uses | Good Shampoo for Hair Fall | Winter Hair Care Routinue | Benefits of Hair Masks | Silicone Haircare Products
