Dandruff and dry scalp

Dandruff can be the result of excessively dry or oily skin, washing too often or too little, stress, bad nutrition etc. Though some of these factors may cause the scaling of the scalp, the true cause of dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis is the Malassezia furfur. In some people, the yeast begins to multiply vigorously, causing skin irritation and accelerated cell proliferation with symptoms like redness or scaling of the skin. The normal renewal of the skin is not noticeable because dead skin cells turn into dust. In the case of dandruff, a larger number of cells is released at once, forming flakes visible to the eye. The exact causes of the yeast growth and exacerbation of dandruff are unknown but possible factors include increased sebum secretion, hormonal fluctuations, stress, fatigue, depression, excessive hair washing, seasonal changes, illnesses, and viruses, neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, decreased immunity (AIDS), hypersensitivity to Malassezia yeast, genetic factors, strong or unsuitable shampoos. When the dandruff is gone, wash the hair with gentle, neutral or moisturizing shampoo.

Dry scalp is caused by the sebaceous glands slowing their function. This may be accelerated by a dry climate. The lack of sebum results in a flaking scalp, lifeless, dry and brittle hair. Hair care products used on a dry scalp must be moisturizing and softening. Avoid frequent washing, strong soaps and products containing alcohol as they might aggravate the condition. Certain hormonal changes and environmental conditions can also dry and irritate the scalp. Dry skin may also be the result of an unbalanced diet lacking fatty acids and vitamins that help to maintain a normal level of hydration and sebum. Dry hair must be treated with moisturizing and nourishing shampoos.