Overview
Dandruff is a skin condition expressed by itchy, flaking skin that most often appears from young adulthood through middle age, according to the Mayo Clinic. The flakes are most noticeable on dark hair or clothing. Although dandruff is more common in males, it is not contagious and is rarely serious. By making simple lifestyle changes, you can control your dandruff and restore your hair to health.
Identification
Dandruff varies in color, depending on the presence of excess skin oil. Dandruff flakes in dry hair tend to be white, dry and small in size; oily conditions create clumpy yellowish dandruff.
Causes
The hair follicles on the scalp produce sebum, an oil-like substance that moisturizes the skin and hair. Also present on the scalp is malassezia, a yeast that prevents oil buildup by eating excess sebum. On a healthy scalp, sebum and yeast exist in balance. However, the yeast can multiply in response to stress, fluctuating hormones, skin allergies or a compromised immune system, according to the Mayo Clinic. An overgrowth of yeast eats too much sebum, leading to an irritated and flaking scalp. The skin regenerates more quickly than usual to replace the injured skin cells, leading to even more excess skin cells and flaking.
Risk Factors
Males tend to have larger sebaceous glands on the scalp and produce more sebum, according to the Mayo Clinic. Overly oily skin also can irritate the scalp, leading to flaking. Moreover, males have more hair follicles on the face, providing more opportunities for a sebum-yeast struggle. The website dermadoctor points out that the chest, back and legs of males also might have active sebaceous glands accompanying hair follicles. Since sebaceous glands cannot be removed, individuals must manage rather than eliminate dandruff problems.
Hair Care Strategies
Males who regularly use hair care products might develop product buildup that sheds off, masquerading as dandruff. Excess product also can irritate the scalp, leading to actual skin flaking. Either way, men experiencing dandruff might need to reduce their use of hair care products and processes, such as perms or color treatments, to avoid further injury to the scalp. Since repeated exposure to hot air can dry and irritate the skin, it also might help to use cooler settings on a hair dryer.
Dietary Changes
A healthy diet can help the body produce new and strong skin cells. However, individuals on low- or no-fat diets might need fatty acid supplements to maintain scalp and hair moisture, according to the website health911. The Mayo Clinic also cautions that individuals eating less zinc or B vitamins might be more prone to dandruff.
Dandruff Products
Mild dandruff can be improved with just daily shampooing using a mild cleanser. If you have more stubborn dandruff, you might need over-the-counter (OTC) dandruff shampoos; use extreme caution to avoid the eyes. OTC shampoos might contain zinc pyrithione and ketoconazole, which are antifungal agents; salicylic acid, which reduces skin cell buildup; and selenium sulfide, which helps to keep skin cells moist. Begin with daily use, then taper to two or three times a week once the dandruff is under control. Since the yeast and glands can adapt, you might need to switch shampoos periodically. If you get no relief from several weeks of OTC shampoos, your physician or dermatologist might recommend stronger shampoos or topical lotions. Health911 also offers a home remedy: You can rub 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar into the scalp. Vinegar is an acid that can prevent the yeast from proliferating and robbing the skin of moisture. Leave the vinegar on the scalp for at least 15 minutes, up to three hours. Shampoo using a gentle cleanser, refrain from styling products, and use cool air settings on the dryer or let the hair air-dry to support scalp recovery.
