Bye Bye Dandruff

Bye Bye Dandruff
(And hair fall)
Dandruff can have several causes, including dry skin, seborrhoeic dermatitis, not cleaning/scrubbing
often enough, shampooing too often, psoriasis, eczema, sensitivity to hair care products, or a yeast-like
fungus. Dry skin is the most common cause of flaking dandruff.
Dandruff
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
For the album by Ivor Cutler, see Dandruff (album).
Dandruff
A microscopic image of human dandruff
Classification and external resources
Specialty Dermatology
ICD-9-CM 690.18
DiseasesDB 11911
MeSH D063807
[edit on Wikidata]
Dandruff is the shedding of dead skin cells from the scalp.[1] As skin cells die, a small amount of
flaking is normal; about 487,000 cells/cm2 are released normally after detergent treatment.[2] Some
people, however, experience an unusually large amount of flaking either chronically or as a result of
certain triggers, up to 800,000 cells/cm2, which can also be accompanied by redness and irritation.
Dandruff is a common scalp disorder affecting almost half of the population at the post-pubertal age
and of any sex and race. It often causes itching. It has been established that keratinocytes play a
key role in the expression and generation of immunological reactions during dandruff formation. The
severity of dandruff may fluctuate with season as it often worsens in winter.[2] Dandruff is rare before
puberty, peaks in the teens and early twenties, and declines with age thereafter.[3] Most cases of
dandruff can be treated with specialized shampoos. There is, however, no known cure.[4]
Those affected by dandruff find that it can cause social or self-esteem problems, indicating treatment
for both psychological and physiological reasons.[5]
Contents
[hide]
1Signs and symptoms

2Causes
o 2.1Microorganisms
o 2.2Seborrhoeic dermatitis
3Mechanism
4Treatment
o 4.1Antifungals
o 4.2Coal tar
5Epidemiology
6Etymology
7References
Signs and symptoms[edit]

Typical case of dandruff.
The signs and symptoms of dandruff are an itchy scalp and flakiness.[6] Red and greasy patches of
skin and a tingly feeling on the skin are also symptoms.[7]
Causes[edit]
Dandruff can have several causes, including dry skin, seborrhoeic dermatitis, not cleaning/scrubbing
often enough, shampooing too often, psoriasis, eczema, sensitivity to hair care products, or a yeast-
like fungus.[8] Dry skin is the most common cause of flaking dandruff.[8]
As the epidermal layer continually replaces itself, cells are pushed outward where they eventually
die and flake off. For most individuals, these flakes of skin are too small to be visible. However,
certain conditions cause cell turnover to be unusually rapid, especially in the scalp. It is hypothesized
that for people with dandruff, skin cells may mature and be shed in 27 days, as opposed to around
a month in people without dandruff. The result is that dead skin cells are shed in large, oily clumps,
which appear as white or grayish flakes on the scalp, skin and clothes.
According to one study, dandruff has been shown to be possibly the result of three factors:[9]
1. Skin oil commonly referred to as sebum or sebaceous secretions[10]

2. The metabolic by-products of skin micro-organisms (most
specifically Malassezia yeasts)[11][12][13][14][15]
3. Individual susceptibility and allergy sensitivity.
Microorganisms[edit]
According to a 2016 study, bacteria (mainly Propionibacterium and Staphylococcus) are more
important to dandruff formation than fungi. Bacterial presence was in turn influenced by water and
sebum amount.[16]
Older literature cites the fungus Malassezia furfur (previously known as Pityrosporum ovale) as the
cause of dandruff. While this species does occur naturally on the skin surface of both healthy people
and those with dandruff, in 2007 it was discovered that the responsible agent is a scalp specific
fungus, Malassezia globosa,[17] that metabolizes triglycerides present in sebum by the expression
of lipase, resulting in a lipid byproduct oleic acid. During dandruff, the levels of Malassezia increase
by 1.5 to 2 times its normal level.[2] Oleic acid penetrates the top layer of the epidermis, the stratum
corneum, and evokes an inflammatory response in susceptible people which
disturbs homeostasis and results in erratic cleavage of stratum corneum cells.[13]
Seborrhoeic dermatitis[edit]
In seborrhoeic dermatitis redness and itching frequently occur around the folds of the nose and
eyebrow areas, not just the scalp. Dry, thick, well-defined lesions consisting of large, silvery scales
may be traced to the less common affliction of the scalp psoriasis. Inflammation can be
characterized by redness, heat, pain, swelling and can cause sensitivity.
Inflammation and extension of scaling outside the scalp exclude the diagnosis of dandruff from
seborrhoeic dermatitis.[10] However, many reports suggest a clear link between the two clinical entities
- the mildest form of the clinical presentation of seborrhoeic dermatitis as dandruff, where the
inflammation is minimal and remain subclinical.[18][19]
Seasonal changes, stress, and immuno-suppression seem to affect seborrheic dermatitis.[2]
Dandruff is a condition of the scalp that causes flakes of skin to appear. It is often accompanied
by itching.
The exact cause is unknown, but various factors increase the risk. It is not related to poor
hygiene, but it may be more visible if a person does not wash or brush their hair often.
Dandruff can be embarrassing and hard to treat, but help is available.
Contents of this article:
Causes
Treatment
When to see a doctor
Dandruff in babies
Fast facts on dandruff

Here are some key points about dandruff. More detail is the main article.
Dandruff is a common condition, but it can be embarrassing and difficult to treat.
It is not related to hygiene, but washing and brushing the hair can help remove old skin
flakes.
Risk factors include having certain skin or medical conditions and the use of
inappropriate hair products.
Various treatments are available over the counter, but more severe cases should be seen
by a doctor.
Causes
The exact causes of dandruff are unknown.
One theory is that it is linked to hormone production, as it often begins around the time of puberty.
Here we look at 10 more possible factors.
1. Seborrheic dermatitis
People with seborrheic dermatitis have irritated, oily skin, and they are more likely to have dandruff.
Seborrheic dermatitis affects many areas of the skin, including the backs of the ears, the breastbone,
eyebrows, and the sides of the nose.
The skin will be red, greasy, and covered with flaky white or yellow scales.
Seborrheic dermatitis is closely linked with Malassezia, a fungus that normally lives on the scalp and
feeds on the oils that the hair follicles secrete.
It does not usually cause a problem, but in some people it becomes overactive, causing the scalp to
become irritated and to produce extra skin cells.
As these extra skin cells die and fall off, they mix with the oil from the hair and scalp, forming
dandruff.
2. Not enough hair brushing

Combing or brushing the hair regularly reduces the risk of dandruff, because it aids in the normal
shedding of skin.
3. Yeast
People who are sensitive to yeast have a slightly higher chance of dandruff, so yeast may play a part.
Dandruff is often worse during the winter months and better when the weather is warmer.
This may be because ultraviolet-A (UVA) light from the sun counteracts the yeast.
4. Dry skin
People with dry skin are more likely to have dandruff. Cold winter air combined with overheated
rooms is a common cause of itchy, flaking skin. Dandruff that stems from dry skin tends to have
smaller, non-oily flakes.
5. Shampooing and skin care products

Certain hair care products can trigger a red, itchy, scaling scalp. Frequent shampooing may cause
dandruff, as it can irritate the scalp.
Some people say not shampooing enough can cause a buildup of oil and dead skin cells, leading to
dandruff, but evidence is lacking that this is true.
6. Certain skin conditions

People with psoriasis, eczema, and some other skin disorders tend to get dandruff more frequently
than others. Tinea capitis, a fungal infection also known as scalp ringworm, can cause dandruff.
7. Medical conditions
Adults with Parkinson's disease and some other neurological illnesses are more prone to dandruff and
seborrheic dermatitis.
One study found that between 30 and 83 percent of people with HIV have seborrheic dermatitis,
compared with 3 to 5 percent in the general population.
Patients who are recovering from a heart attack or a stroke and those with a weak immune system
may be more prone to dandruff.
8. Diet
Not consuming enough foods that contain zinc, B vitamins, and some types of fats may increase the
risk.
9. Mental stress
There may be a link between stress and many skin problems.
10. Age
Dandruff is more likely from adolescence through middle age, although it can be lifelong. It affects
men more than women, possibly for reasons related to hormones.
Treatment
Treatment aims to stop the dandruff by slowing down the reproduction of skin cells or counteracting
the yeast production that might be the cause.
The strategy will depend the patient's age and the severity of the condition.
Shampoos and scalp preparations
Shampoos and scalp products are available over the counter at most stores and pharmacies. These
can control seborrheic dermatitis, but they cannot cure it.
Before using an anti-fungal shampoo, individuals should carefully try to remove any scaly or crusty
patches on the scalp, as far as possible, This will make the shampoo more effective.
Dandruff shampoo is available to treat dandruff in the beard.
Ingredients to look out for

Most anti-dandruff or anti-fungal shampoos contain at least one of the following active ingredients:
Ketoconazole: An effective anti-fungal. Shampoos containing this ingredient can be used at any
age.
Selenium sulfide: This reduces the production of natural oils by glands in the scalp. It is effective at
treating dandruff.
Zinc pyrithione: This slows down the growth of yeast.
Coal tar: This has a natural anti-fungal agent. Dyed or treated hair may become stained by long-
term usage. Tar soaps may also make the scalp more sensitive to sunlight, so users should wear a hat
when outside. Coal tar can also be carcinogenic in high doses.
Salicylic acids: These help the scalp get rid of skin cells. They do not slow down the reproduction
of skin cells. Many "scalp scrubs" contain salicylic acids. Treatment can sometimes leave the scalp
dry and make skin flaking worse.
Tea-tree oil: Derived from the Australian Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia), many shampoos now
include this ingredient. It has long been used as an anti-fungal, an antibiotic, and an antiseptic. Some
people are allergic to it.
The best strategy is to select a shampoo containing one of these ingredients and shampoo the hair
every day until the dandruff is under control.
After this, they can be used less frequently.
Alternating dandruff shampoo with regular shampoo may help. A specific shampoo may stop being
as effective after some time. At this point, it may be a good idea to switch to one with another
ingredient.
Some shampoos should be left on the scalp for around 5 minutes, as rinsing too quickly will not give
the ingredient time to work. Others should be rinsed at once. Users should follow the instructions on
the container.
When to see a doctor

It is not normally necessary to consult a doctor with dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis, but sometimes
dandruff can be a sign of a more serious medical condition.
Medical help should be sought if:
More severe cases may indicate a skin condition and should be seen by a doctor.
there are signs of infection, such as redness, tenderness, or swelling
dandruff is very severe, or it persists after home treatment
there are signs of eczema, psoriasis, or another skin condition the scalp is very itchy
Complications are rare with dandruff, but they may result from one of the treatments.
If a shampoo or scalp treatment causes irritation, the individual should cease using it and ask a
pharmacist to suggest another one.
A person with a weakened immune system, for example, due to HIV or AIDS, should ask their
doctor about any dandruff.
Dandruff in babies
Cradle cap is a kind of dandruff that affects newborns and young infants.
Newborns and young infants often have a kind of dandruff known as cradle cap. There will be
yellow, greasy, scaly patches on the scalp.
It often appears within the first 2 months after birth and lasts a few weeks or months.
Gently washing with baby shampoo and applying baby oil can help prevent the scales from building
up.
If there are signs of skin cracking or infection, if itching, swelling or bleeding occur, or if it spreads
to other parts of the body, it is important to see a doctor.
New solutions for dandruff?

Research into ways to help people with psoriasis and other skin conditions is ongoing.
Green tea has shown potential for the treatment of dandruff and psoriasis, according to research
published in 2012. Researchers believe a special formulation that can penetrate the skin's waterproof
barrier will combat excessive cell growth, oxidative stress, and inflammation.
A study carried out by European researchers has suggested that the addition of llama antibodies to
shampoo could be a new strategy for fighting dandruff.
Dandruff: Learn The Basics

Dandruff -- those dry, white flakes of skin you brush off your collar or
shoulders -- is harmless. But it can be embarrassing and
itchy. Dandruffreally isn't about your hair, or how often you wash it.
Instead, it's about the skin on your scalp.
Skin cells that grow and die off too fast are the problem. Exactly why
that happens isn't clear. A very common fungus called malassezia may
contribute to dandruff. This fungus lives on the scalp of most healthy
adults without causing any problems. One theory is that the immune
system of someone with dandruff may overreact to that fungus.
Dandruff may get worse when you're stressed or sick. Cold, dry winters
can trigger dandruff or make it worse, too.
One common cause is seborrheic dermatitis, or seborrhea. Some people
with dandruff may also have seborrheic dermatitis in other areas of the
body, such as their ears, the center of the face, and the center of the
chest.
Dyshidrotic Eczema and Itchy
Blisters
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Symptoms
Causes
Diagnosis
Treatment
Small, itchy blisters on your palms and along the sides of your fingers
could be signs of dyshidrotic eczema. This skin condition can also make
blisters pop up on the soles of your feet or on your toes.
Your doctor might call it by another name, including dyshidrosis or foot-
and-hand eczema.
These blisters will come and go over time because there is no cure. But
you can manage them with medicine, moisturizers, and good hygiene.
They might start to taper off once you get into middle age. And if you
have a mild case, it could eventually go away on its own.
Dyshidrotic eczema mostly affects adults ages 20 to 40, and it's twice as
common in women as men. You're more likely to get it if you have
allergies like hay fever, a family history of dyshidrotic eczema, or other
forms of eczema.
Symptoms
The small, itchy blisters are the most noticeable sign. These usually pop
up in clusters, and you may itch or feel a burning pain before they
appear. The skin around the blisters might sweat more than usual, and
your nails might thicken and change colors, too.
The blisters often go away in 2 to 3 weeks. But the skin underneath can
be red and tender for a while.
Dyshidrotic eczema can be mild or severe. If you have a severe case
that affects your feet, the blisters can make it hard to walk. Blisters on
your hands can make it hard to do things like cook, type, or wash
dishes.
Sometimes the blisters can get infected, especially if you scratch them a
lot. Signs that you have an infection include:
Pain
Swelling
Crusting
Pus in the blisters
Causes
Several things can set off dyshidrotic eczema, including:
Stress
Contact with metals like nickel, cobalt, or chromium salts on your
job or from things like wearing costume jewelry
Sweaty or wet hands and feet
Warm, humid weather
HIV infection
Certain treatments for a weak immune system (immunoglobulin)
This condition isn't contagious. You can't catch it from touching someone
who has it.
Diagnosis
If you notice blisters on your hands and feet, see a dermatologist (a
doctor who specializes in your skin). He'll look at your hands and feet,
as well as your nails.
You also might need to see an allergy doctor (allergist). Patch tests can
show if you have an allergy to nickel or another metal. During these
tests, your doctor will put patches with a small amount of different
metals or other things on your skin to see if you react to them.
Treatment
Your doctor can prescribe an ointment or cream with a steroid in it to
bring down swelling and help get rid of the blisters. Your skin will take in
the medicine better if you put a wet compress on it after you use the
cream. If you have a severe flare-up, you might need to take a steroid
drug, like prednisone, in a pill.
An antihistamine like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or loratadine
(Alavert, Claritin) can help with the itch, too. Or you might hold a cold,
wet compress on the blisters for 15 minutes at a time several times a
day.
If these treatments don't work well for you, you might try one of these:
Light therapy: This uses ultraviolet (UV) light to clear up your skin.
You might get a medicine first to help your skin respond better to
the light.
Botulinum toxin: These shots stop your hands and feet from
sweating, which can trigger the blisters.
Medicines that slow down your immune system: Tacrolimus
(Protopic) ointment or pimecrolimus (Elidel) cream can calm the
swelling and irritation. These drugs can be options if you don't
want to take steroids.
Draining the blisters: Your dermatologist can drain fluid from the
blisters. Don't try to do this yourself. You could make the eczema
worse.
To control the blisters at home:
Wash your hands and feet every day. Use lukewarm water and a
mild, scent-free soap. Afterward, gently pat your skin dry.
Take your rings off before you wash your hands. Moisture can get
trapped under your rings and cause more blisters.
Wear gloves with cotton liners whenever your hands are in water,
like when you wash dishes.
Put a thick moisturizer on your hands and feet every time you
shower or wash. Rub it on while your skin is still wet to seal in
water. You also might use a cream that has dimethicone to protect
your skin.
Turn on a humidifier in dry weather to keep your skin from
cracking.
If allergies set off your eczema, try to stay away from things that
trigger them.
Don't scratch the blisters -- you'll make them worse.
Blisters
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Symptoms
Causes
Diagnosis
Treatment
CONTINUED
If you're sensitive to nickel or cobalt, your dermatologist might tell you
not to eat foods that are high in these metals. Nickel is in foods like
chocolate, broccoli, legumes, and nuts. Cobalt is in shellfish, liver, nuts,
beets, cabbage, and chocolate.

Blisters
Listen
IN THIS ARTICLE
Symptoms
Causes
Diagnosis
Treatment
and-hand eczema.
forms of eczema.
Symptoms
dishes.
Pain
Swelling
Crusting
Pus in the blisters
Causes
Stress
Warm, humid weather
HIV infection
who has it.
Diagnosis
Treatment
day.
the light.
worse.
your skin.
cracking.
trigger them.


Blisters
Listen
IN THIS ARTICLE
Symptoms
Causes
Diagnosis
Treatment
and-hand eczema.
forms of eczema.
Symptoms
dishes.
Pain
Swelling
Crusting
Pus in the blisters
Causes
Stress
Warm, humid weather
HIV infection
who has it.
Diagnosis
Treatment
day.
the light.
worse.
your skin.
cracking.
trigger them.

What Is Seborrheic Dermatitis?

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IN THIS ARTICLE
Causes
Symptoms
Treatment
That red, itchy rash on your scalp that has flaky scales could
be seborrheic dermatitis, or seborrhea. It's a common skindisease that
looks similar to psoriasis, eczema, or an allergic reaction. And it can
appear on your body as well as your scalp.
Causes
We don't know what exactly causes seborrheic dermatitis. It seems to
be a combination of things, including:
Stress
Your genes
A yeast that normally lives on skin
Certain medical conditions and medicines
Cold, dry weather
It doesn't come from an allergy or being unclean.

Newborns and adults aged 30-60 are more likely to get seborrheic
dermatitis. It's more common in men than women and in people with
oily skin. These medical conditions can also raise your risk:
Acne
AIDS
Alcoholism
Depression
Eating disorders
Epilepsy
Heart attack or stroke recovery
Parkinson's disease
Psoriasis
Rosacea
Symptoms
Dandruff and cradle cap are common names for seborrheic dermatitis.
Babies 3 months and younger often get cradle cap: crusty yellow or
brown scales on their scalp. It usually goes away before they're a year
old, although it can come back when they reach puberty.
You might get seborrheic dermatitis on your face, especially around your
nose, on your eyelids, or behind your ears. It can show up on your
body, too:
In the middle part of the chest

Around the navel
On buttocks
In skin folds under arms and on legs
In the groin
Below breasts
On babies, seborrheic dermatitis might be mistaken for diaper rash.

Skin can itch, burn, or look red. The scales that flake off could be white
or yellowish and look moist or oily.
Because it can look like other skin conditions, you should see your
family doctor to get a diagnosis and the right treatment. The
dermatologist will ask about your medical history and look at your skin.
You may need other tests if the doctor thinks it's related to another
medical condition.
Treatment
Sometimes, seborrheic dermatitis will clear up by itself. More often, it's
a lifelong issue that clears and flares. It can last for years at a time, but
you can usually control it with good skin care
Understanding Dandruff --
Symptoms
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What Are the Symptoms of Dandruff?

Call Your Doctor About Dandruff if:
What Are the Symptoms of Dandruff?

The symptoms of dandruffinclude:
Flakes of skin that range from small and white to large, greasy,
and yellow
Itchy flaking that appears on the scalp or eyebrows; around the
hairline, ears, or nose; or in the center of the chest or back
Understanding Dermatitis --
Prevention
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How Can I Prevent Dermatitis?
How Can I Prevent Dermatitis?

Some types of dermatitis are easier to prevent than others. Allergic and
irritant contact dermatitis can be prevented by avoiding skin contact
with the agents that cause the dermatitis. However, if you come into
contact with an irritant, such as poison ivy, wash the exposed skin with
soap and water as soon as possible. Most other types of dermatitis
develop in people with sensitive skin and can be prevented only by
avoiding the irritant.
If you feel you are at risk for dermatitis, consider these preventive
steps:
SLIDESHOW
Images of Childhood Skin Problems
Start
Use a humidifier at home and at work to keep the air from getting
too dry.
Wear loose-fitting, natural-fiber clothing; untreated cotton is ideal.
Avoid plated jewelry, especially in your ears, to prevent nickel-
related rashes. Surgical steel or 14-karat gold earring posts are
safer choices.
Don't wear a watchband that presses against your skin for long
periods; the friction and sweat buildup can cause rashes.
Take warm, not hot, baths or showers and use mild soaps.
Lubricate your skin after a bath and several times during the day
when possible using an unscented lotion or cream.
Surprising Facts About Dandruff

If you've spotted the telltale flakes in your hair, read this myth-busting
article about what causes dandruff and how to get rid of it.
By Jennifer Benjamin
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If you have an itchy scalp or flakes in your hair, you may be tempted to just reach for the
nearest dandruff shampoo. Before you do, read on to find out common misconceptions
about the irritating condition and get experts' advice on dealing with it.
Dandruff is not caused by dryness.
If the skin on your body or face becomes scaly or itchy, your first instinct is probably to
reach for a moisturizer. When your scalp is flaky, though, its usually the result of too much
oil rather than too little. Its a common misconception that dandruff is caused by dryness;
in reality, its usually due to an overgrowth of a harmless yeast, explains Jessica Wu, M.D.,
a Los Angeles dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the University
of Southern California Medical School. In some people, the yeast starts to feed on the
excess oil and dead skin cells on the scalp, causing the skin cells to shed more frequently
and clump into flakes.
You should wash your hair more often.
Normally, dermatologists warn against shampooing your hair every day, the concern being
that youll strip the scalp and hair of natural oils and cause irritation. Dandruff poses the
opposite problem. Not shampooing enough will only make your dandruff worse it causes
more oil and dead skin cells to accumulate on your scalp, which the yeast and fungi just
continue to feed on, warns Beverly Hills dermatologist Stuart H. Kaplan, M.D. To rid your
scalp of dandruff, you need to clean out all the gunk, which a regular shampoo wont do. Dr.
Kaplan recommends a medicated dandruff shampoo (which you can find at drugstores)
every day, one that contains ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, or zinc. If your hair is coarse,
though, and youre concerned that daily shampooing will make it more brittle, you may
want to use a dandruff conditioner too.
A flaky, itchy scalp does not always mean dandruff.
If you dont see any improvement after washing for a week or two with a medicated
shampoo, there might be another culprit. You could have psoriasis or a skin inflammation.
Some hair treatments and certain products with harsh chemicals can create an allergic
reaction or sensitivity that dries out your scalp, says cosmetic chemist Ni'Kita Wilson, vice
president of research and innovation at Englewood Lab. So then, in this case, the flakes
would have nothing to do with dandruff. When dandruff shampoos arent cutting it, youll
want to see a dermatologist, wholl be able to diagnose your specific condition and prescribe
the right remedy to treat it.
You can get dandruff on your face and body too.
Those oily flakes are not necessarily restricted to your scalp. Its not uncommon for women
to discover dandruff flakes in their eyebrows, around their ears, and along the sides of their
nose anywhere a lot of oil is produced. Usually such scaly patches occur in addition to a
flaky scalp if you have these extra skin-shedding spots, use your dandruff shampoo to
gently clean them when you wash your hair.
Dandruff cant be cured, but it can be controlled.
Unfortunately, if youre prone to dandruff, its most likely a problem that will continue to
recur. Still, you dont have to wait for flakes to make an appearance to start treating them
you can take preemptive action to avoid flare-ups. Diets high in saturated and trans fats
cause your sebaceous glands to produce more oil, which makes dandruff worse, explains
Kaplan. Avoiding these fats, as well as incorporating varied fruits and veggies that contain
zinc and B vitamins, will help keep the flakes at bay. You may also want to consider taking
a probiotic any of a group of beneficial bacteria that can be found in yogurt or can be
taken as a supplement to combat the overgrowth of yeast.

FAQ: WHAT IS DANDRUFF?
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Find out how to spot the symptoms of dandruff and how you can treat them including flakes, itching and dryness.
Symptoms of Dandruff
The symptoms of dandruff are all signs of irritation, brought on by the root cause of dandruff the microbe
Malassezia Globosa.
More about the causes of dandruff
As your scalp becomes irritated, it responds the same way as skin elsewhere on your body so you may experience:
1. Itching
2. Redness
3. Dryness
4. Flakes
How the symptoms appear
Flaking is the most visible sign of dandruff and you may see them on your hair and also on your shoulders. This
happens as the body increases the rate at which skin cells renew themselves, causing excess cells to appear on the
scalp and flake off. While it might be the most visible sign, its not always the first. Itching is often the first
symptom to show itself and can act as a warning sign before flakes start to appear. Dryness and redness can also
appear early too, making your scalp feel tight. While not always sure signs of dandruff, theyre key symptoms to
look out for and should act as a prompt to start using anti-dandruff shampoo to help treat the irritation.
Dandruff, also known as seborrheic dermatitis, is a common chronic scalp condition that can affect people of all ages,
from childhood all the way through adulthood. Young people, especially teenagers, can be prone to dandruff due to
the effects of puberty and hormones on the natural sebum production of the scalp. Dandruff is flaky skin on your
scalp. Some flaking skin is normal because the top layer of the skin flakes away naturally over time. In most people,
these flakes are too small to be visible. However, certain conditions cause cell turnover to be unusually rapid,
especially in the scalp. The result is that dead skin cells are shed in large, oily clumps, which appear as white or
grayish patches on the scalp, skin and clothes.
symptom
A dry, itchy scalp

White flakes in your hair and on dark clothing
If you have other symptoms coupled with these we recommend you speak to a doctor.
Cause
In short: Dandruff is caused when the natural cycle of skin renewal is speeded up. This means bigger patches of
dead skin build up than normal and result in the flakes that come away in the hair.
Why does the cycle speed up?
According to the NHS, its not always clear what causes this but two factors include:
Seborrhoeic dermatitis a condition that cause oily skin and skin flakes on other parts of the body.
Malassezia a type of fungus that naturally occurs on the scalp but if it grows out of control can accelerate
production of new skin. The fungus canvgrow out of control if the skin is particularly oily.
Other causes include:
o Emotional stress
o Not washing or over washing the hair
o Other skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema
o A weakened immune system
Sometimes just the effects of our everyday lifestyle like stress, hormones or blow drying hair can make dandruff keep
re-appearing. Thats why sometimes when you stop protecting your hair from dandruff it can return. If you want to
protect your hair and scalp from dandruff we recommend using products from our anti-dandruff range.
Most anti-dandruff shampoos will include certain ingredients which actively work against the causes of dandruff.
Ultimately we can only speak for our own. To find out more about the specific ingredients in our products and how
they work take a look below:
Just washing your hair will help to remove flakes, but anti-dandruff shampoos also contain special ingredients to
control yeasts or reduce inflammation on your scalp. Vosene anti-dandruff products are designed to be used by the
whole family. Ideally the anti-dandruff shampoo should be used at least three times a week, as regular use will ease
flakes and itching. If you use a conditioner, then ensure it is an anti-dandruff one - this will increase the effectiveness
of the regime (against an ordinary conditioner). When the treatment stops, it is natural for the Malassezia Yeasts to
return along with the flaky by-products.
The table below shows the most common active ingredients and their primary activity:
Active Principal anti-dandruff

Vosene product
ingredient activity
Slows skin cell turnover (flaking), Controls
Salicylic acid Original, Activating
excessive skin oiliness, Relieves itching
Zinc pyrithione Antibacterial, Antifungal, Relieves itching Frequent, 2in1, Citrus Refresh,
Mens, Colour Protect
Psoriasis vs. dandruff: How to tell
the difference
Last reviewed Wed 12 April 2017
By David Railton
Reviewed by Debra Sullivan, PhD, MSN, CNE, COI

31
Dandruff and psoriasis of the scalp can look very similar. Both skin conditions produce flakes of
skin, but there are some differences.
For instance, unlike dandruff, scalp psoriasis has a "silvery sheen" and also appears as dry scales on
the scalp.
Contents of this article:
Comparison of symptoms
Causes
Treatment for scalp psoriasis
Treatments for dandruff
Scalp-care tips
Comparison of symptoms
Dandruff and psoriasis of the scalp might look similar but the symptoms may be different.
Although psoriasis of the scalp and dandruff are often confused, they do have different symptoms.
Dandruff symptoms
Dandruff is a common scalp condition that causes small pieces of dry skin to flake from the scalp.
These flakes can be noticeable and embarrassing if they fall from the scalp to the shoulders, but the
condition is not harmful or contagious.
Psoriasis symptoms
Psoriasis can affect any area of the scalp and will typically appear as thick, inflamed, reddish patches.
Scalp psoriasis can be very itchy and the skin can become so dry that it cracks and bleeds.
Other similar conditions

There are some other conditions that can cause a flaky scalp. These include seborrheic dermatitis,
which is linked to an overgrowth of yeast on the skin. It can cause the scalp to become itchy, scaly,
and red.
Tinea capitis is a fungal infection that is sometimes known as "scalp ringworm" and also causes
flaking. Eczema is another common skin condition that results in dry, red, flaky skin.
Some cosmetic products may cause allergic contact dermatitis on the scalp, which can also display as
flaking skin.
"Cradle cap," a type of seborrheic dermatitis, is a kind of yellow, greasy, scaly dandruff that often
affects babies in their first 2 months. Symptoms usually only last for a few weeks or months, and
gentle washing with baby shampoo can help to prevent a build-up of scales on the baby's head.
Causes
Psoriasis has some specific causes, whereas less is known about what causes dandruff.
Psoriasis causes
About half of all people with psoriasis will get symptoms on their scalp. Scalp psoriasis has the same
underlying cause as other forms of psoriasis.
It develops when a person's immune system instructs the skin cells to grow too quickly. This causes
skin cells to build up on the surface of the skin.
Stress, cold, and dry air can all trigger flare-ups of scalp psoriasis.
Psoriasis is slightly more common in white Americans than African-Americans, and men and women
are equally as likely to get psoriasis.
Psoriasis usually develops in people between the ages of 15 and 35, though it can develop at any age.
Very rarely, psoriasis may develop in infants.
Dandruff causes
Dandruff is a common disorder that affects about half of all people at some point in their lives.
There do not appear to be any significant differences in the way dandruff affects men and women and
people of different ethnicities.
Some people believe that dandruff is a result of poor hygiene, but this is not true.
Symptoms of dandruff seem to get worse in winter. However, scientists do not yet completely
understand the root causes of dandruff.
There are a number of treatment options available for both scalp psoriasis and for dandruff.
Treatment for scalp psoriasis

A doctor or dermatologist may recommended different treatments for scalp psoriasis such as topical or light treatments.
A doctor that specializes in skin conditions (a dermatologist) can recommend treatments for scalp
psoriasis.
Treatments may include:
medicines that are applied to the scalp
medicated shampoo
injections
light treatments
biologic medicines
Topical treatments
Severe cases of scalp psoriasis may require topical treatments, such as:
anthralin (Dritho-Scalp)
calcipotriene (Dovonex)
calcipotriene and betamethasone dipropionate (Taclonex)
tazarotene (Tazorac)
Medications
Other medications that a doctor may prescribe include:
methotrexate (Trexall)
cyclosporine (Gengraf, Neoral, SandIMMUNE)
acitretin (Soriatene)
Moderate to severe psoriasis can be treated with biological medications, such as:
certolizumab pegol (Cimzia)
etanercept (Enbrel)
adalimumab (Humira)
infliximab (Remicade)
golimumab (Simponi)
People with more severe scalp psoriasis may need to try several treatments before they find the one
that works for them.
Also, after repeated use, a person's psoriasis may become less responsive to the medication. If this
happens, treatments may be combined and rotated.
Treatments for dandruff

Shampoos are a common over-the-counter treatment for dandruff however if symptoms have not improved after a month then a doctor should be consulted.
There are many different shampoos that are available over the counter to treat dandruff.
Some of these shampoos have slightly different instructions on how long people should lather or
rinse. For maximum effect, it is important to follow the label instructions closely.
People should try using other shampoos with different active ingredients if their initial choice is not
effective. Active ingredients include:
zinc pyrithione
salicylic acid
selenium sulfide
ketoconazole
coal tar
If a person's symptoms improve, then they may be able to use the shampoo less often. However, if
they stop using the shampoo completely, the dandruff will probably come back.
If someone has tried anti-dandruff shampoos for more than a month and their symptoms have not
improved, then they should see a doctor.
Scalp-care tips
There are a number of ways that people who have scalp psoriasis or dandruff can care for their scalp.
Certain steps can help to manage each condition and provide some relief from symptoms.
Scalp-care for psoriasis

If someone has psoriasis, they should try not to scratch their scalp. This can be difficult because the
itching can be very intense. It is wise for people to try not to pick at the build-up of scale, either.
The scalp should be shampooed gently, as rubbing or scrubbing the scalp can make psoriasis worse.
Psoriasis can be made worse by stress, so finding ways to unwind can also help people with this
condition.
Scalp-care for dandruff

If a person has dandruff, they should be careful when using a dandruff shampoo that uses coal tar.
This is because these sorts of shampoo can discolor lighter-colored hair.
People who are white or Asian are advised to use normal shampoo daily, and use dandruff shampoo
twice a week. African-American people are advised to shampoo just once a week using a dandruff
shampoo.

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(And hair fall)

A microscopic image of human dandruff

Classification and external resources

1Signs and symptoms

Signs and symptoms[edit]

1. Skin oil commonly referred to as sebum or sebaceous secretions[10]

Dandruff can be embarrassing and hard to treat, but help is available.

Contents of this article:

When to see a doctor

Fast facts on dandruff

Dandruff is a common condition, but it can be embarrassing and difficult to treat.

Here we look at 10 more possible factors.

2. Not enough hair brushing

5. Shampooing and skin care products

6. Certain skin conditions

Dandruff shampoo is available to treat dandruff in the beard.

Ingredients to look out for

Zinc pyrithione: This slows down the growth of yeast.

After this, they can be used less frequently.

When to see a doctor

Medical help should be sought if:

there are signs of infection, such as redness, tenderness, or swelling

dandruff is very severe, or it persists after home treatment

New solutions for dandruff?

Dandruff: Learn The Basics

To control the blisters at home:

Dyshidrotic Eczema and Itchy

To control the blisters at home:

If you're sensitive to nickel or cobalt, your dermatologist might tell you

Dyshidrotic Eczema and Itchy

To control the blisters at home:

If you're sensitive to nickel or cobalt, your dermatologist might tell you

What Is Seborrheic Dermatitis?

It doesn't come from an allergy or being unclean.

In the middle part of the chest

On babies, seborrheic dermatitis might be mistaken for diaper rash.

What Are the Symptoms of Dandruff?

What Are the Symptoms of Dandruff?

How Can I Prevent Dermatitis?

How Can I Prevent Dermatitis?

Images of Childhood Skin Problems

Surprising Facts About Dandruff

Don't Miss This

5 Ingredients for Gorgeous, Glowing Skin

We respect your privacy.

Dandruff is not caused by dryness.

and clump into flakes.

You should wash your hair more often.

want to use a dandruff conditioner too.

A flaky, itchy scalp does not always mean dandruff.

the right remedy to treat it.

You can get dandruff on your face and body too.

gently clean them when you wash your hair.

Dandruff cant be cured, but it can be controlled.

taken as a supplement to combat the overgrowth of yeast.

A dry, itchy scalp

Other causes include:

Active Principal anti-dandruff

Reviewed by Debra Sullivan, PhD, MSN, CNE, COI

Contents of this article:

Treatment for scalp psoriasis

Treatments for dandruff

Other similar conditions