Dandruff is a common scalp disorder affecting half of the postpubertal population of any ethnicity and both genders. It is just a skin problem which causes dry white flakes of dead skin which appear in the scalp. These sensations of itchiness can make a person uncomfortable to live and fall into the situation of embarrassment. As this condition didn’t spread from one person to another. In many situations it is also often noticeable from scalp when they fall on the shoulder then it appears usually. As dandruff can be range from mild to serve.

It seems that it starts happening around puberty when a lot more oil is made by glands at the base of each hair. This oil holds the tiny flakes together to make bigger, more noticeable flakes. Boys get more oily hair than girls, and boys have dandruff more often than girls.

SIMPLE SCIENCE BEHIND DANDRUFF AND ITCHY SCALP

The body skin continuously shed and replaced dead cells where as new cells formed, it is also applied to the skin of your scalp. This process mainly goes unnoticed and it shows the process when there is an excessive amount of dead cells take a form of dandruff and Itchy scalp which leads to hair fall.

The dead skin which presents on the scalp will get remove when you do shampoo or brush your hair. As it is usually going un-noticeable because you daily care your hair.

As you need to know that our skin is covered with millions of micro-organisms. And our sweat and sebum usually protect the scalp from harmful bacteria. Not only one thing directly responsible for this problem but there are also different many underlying reasons such as illness, stress, diet and hormonal imbalance.

Causes of Dandruff and Itchy Scalp

Most people experience some degree of itchy feeling and dandruff during their life. The researcher does not know the exact cause of dandruff. It is still unknown. It is believed that when there is an overgrowth of a tiny fungus which always presents on the scalp, causes a problem and it started irritates the skin and also turn into hair fall.

Many studies show some causes which are related to itchy scalp and dandruff. Below the list of reason responsible for hair fall, dandruff and baldness.

1. Overuse of hair product.
2. Emotional Stress
3. Washing your hair too much or too little
4. Poor hygiene and infrequent shampooing
5. Diet rich in fatty, salty or sugary foods
6. Eating dairy products if you are already prone to the condition
7. Hormonal changes and fluctuations
8. Psychological Problem
9. Cold or dry weather and climate
10. Pre-menstrual syndrome
11. Oily hair
12. Allergy or illness
13. A weakened immune system
14. Some medical conditions ( eg- Parkinson’s disease )

When To Consult With Doctor Regarding Dandruff and Itchy Scalp

Most cases of dandruff and Itchy scalp do not need a doctor’s visit. During the starting stage of dandruff, you can seek advice from your pharmacist who will provide you an antidandruff shampoo.

It  does not work if any of the following symptoms present –

1. When your scalp is very itchy and disturb the quality of life
2. When your scalp is red, swollen or weepy.

When having weak immune system due to having chemotherapy or having an HIV medication.

A serve build up flakes, serve redness cause discomfort and eventually, it may lead to hair loss. So in this extreme cases, you should treat you redness scalp by making an appointment with hair related doctor. Only a doctor can advise you the better treatment.

DIET AND LIFESTYLE

If you have a mild to moderate flaky and/or itchy scalp, it’s a good idea to look at your diet and lifestyle. The condition of your scalp can often be improved by making simple changes. Try to restrict dairy products for a few weeks as dairy can exacerbate flaking and eczema. Also, cut back on foods rich in salt, ‘bad fats’ and sugar. Taking time out for yoga, meditation, general relaxation and fitness can help manage stress.

Self Care

1. Often do Shampoo in hair if you have an oily hair.
2. Save your daily hair washing until after your exercise workout.
3. Save your daily hair washing until after your exercise workout.
4. Limit use of hair styling products that can make your hair and scalp more oily.
5. If your scalp is dry, use a hair conditioner which will act as a moisturiser for your scalp. Try a ‘leave-in’ conditioner.
6. Avoid using hair gels and other products that contain alcohol, which tends to dry out the scalp.
7. Learn and practice relaxation techniques to manage stress.
8. Eat regular, healthy meals, including plenty of fruit, vegetables and grains. Limit foods high in fat, sugar or salt.