Dandruff is a common condition that causes the skin on the scalp to flake. It is not contagious or serious, but it can be uncomfortable and very often difficult to treat. Mild dandruff can be eliminated with gentle daily shampooing. If this is not an effective method, a medicated shampoo can help. Dandruff and hair loss can be related, as can hair loss and lice infestation...
DANDRUFF: Dandruff Symptoms | Consult a doctor | Causes of Dandruff | Treatment | Seborrheic dermatitis | Conventional treatment | Alternative treatment | Treatment at home | Questions and Answers | Sources/references
EARS: Symptoms | Consult a doctor | Causes | Treatment | Conventional treatment | Alternative treatment | Prevention | Questions and Answers | Sources/references
COMBINATIONS: Dandruff and hair loss | Hairloss and lice
DANDRUFF
Dandruff - those dry, white flakes of skin that you constantly have to brush off your neck and shoulders - is characterized by no health risks at all. But it can be a source of embarrassment and the accompanying itching can become a real nuisance. Many people incorrectly believe that this problem is related to hygiene or how often you wash your hair. Although it is true that shampooing your hair more infrequently can worsen existing dandruff, it cannot cause it.
Image: the appearance of dandruff on the head
What actually causes dandruff is a simple difference between people who separate due to a natural process that happens to us every day: the death of skin cells. For some of us, they die off more than others.
SYMPTOMS
- Scale skin, everything from small and white to large, oily and yellow.
- Itchy peeling of the skin that occurs on the scalp or on the eyebrows or around the edge of the scalp, around the ears or around the nose.
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR IF
- flaking is greasy and yellow and does not stop after using an over-the-counter anti-dandruff shampoo; you may have seborrheic dermatitis and need a more radical treatment to relieve itching and flaking.
- dandruff is limited to only a few small places and very itchy; you may have a yeast infection that needs to be treated with prescription medications.
CAUSES OF THE FORMATION OF DANDRUFF
Dandruff is caused by skin cells that grow too quickly and die too quickly. Doctors do not know what leads to this too fast process. Some people with severe peeling have overactive sebaceous glands (whose job it is to oil the skin), while others have increased levels of the Pityrosporum ovale fungus, which is present in all people, but people with dandruff have significantly more of it. Other factors may include family history, food allergies, excessive sweating, use of alkaline soaps, yeast infections, and stress. Even the season can contribute to dandruff. Cold and dry winters significantly contribute to the formation of dandruff and also worsen the already existing condition.
If the dandruff scales are oily and yellow, the most likely cause is a skin disorder called seborrheic dermatitis. Dry and thick skin changes consist of large silvery scales, which are also seen in lesscommon scalp psoriasis. These forms of dandruff, as well as many mediocre varieties, can only become dangerous if you scratch so hard that you damage your skin. In this case, you are more at risk of developing infections, especially from staphylococcal and streptococcal bacteria.
HEALING
Many over-the-counter shampoos can be used to control moderate dandruff. In cases of a more stubborn form, such as seborrheic dermatitis, consult a doctor. Some medicinal herbs can relieve itching and dry skin, but you'll usually need to use tar-based products to control oily flakes.
The US Food and Drug Administration has approved only five active ingredients as safe and effective for the treatment of dandruff:
- coal tar,
- pyrithion zinc,
- salicylic acid,
- selenium sulfide and
- sulphur (he also recognizes the combination of salicylic acid and sulfur as an effective preparation).
All other substances in anti-dandruff shampoos have been denied the property of active ingredients, so always read the instructions carefully.
SEBORHOIC DERMATITIS ON THE SCALP
Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic, relapsing and usually mild form of dermatitis that can occur in both infants and adults.
Severity can vary from minimal, asymptomatic scaling of the scalp (dandruff) to widespread involvement. Dandruff is one of the common dermatological problems of the scalp in adolescents and later adults. It is characterized by the formation of small white or white-yellow skin scales on the scalp, which can be dry or greasy, and their peeling. Scalp itching may also be present. Men are affected more often than women.
The reason for the formation of dandruff, despite its prevalence, is not yet precisely known. One of the key links with the formation of dandruff is said to be the increased activity of the sebaceous glands, in which hormones and various hormonal changes play a major role. The increased incidence is also associated with male genetic makeup, emotional unhealthy consumption of various external factors, fatigue, obesity, disorders of the immune system (e.g. HIV), inadequate scalp care, with certain gender, physical and stress, alcohol diet, and with neurological conditions ( e.g. Parkinson's disease), infrequent brushing or combing of the hair, with oily hair, with dry skin.
The increased activity of the sebaceous glands is said to be by creating a favorable environment for the growth of yeast fungi from the genus Malassezia, whose presence is not the key, but the individual's susceptibility to their influence. As the fungus begins to proliferate excessively, as a result, due to irritation of the scalp, new skin cells begin to form more quickly in the protective barrier of the skin layer, which grow, die and fall off, which is expressed as dandruff.
Dandruff is treated with shampoos that are used in self-medication. Unless anti-dandruff products do not help despite proper use or the scalp becomes sensitive, red and swollen, it is recommended to visit a dermatologist who will prescribe appropriate treatment.
Since dandruff is a chronic form of dermatitis, it cannot be cured. However, we can prevent and reduce the possibility of the influence of various factors on deterioration (adequate diet with as little saturated and trans-fats as possible, consumption of probiotics, sufficient amounts of B vitamins, zinc, selenium and omega-3 fatty acids, avoiding stress, regular physical activity,... .) and take care of proper scalp care. Treatment with shampoos containing an antifungal (2% ketoconazole, ciclopirox, zinc pyrithione, selenium sulphide) proven to work against fungi and a keratolytic (such as salicylic acid, sulphur) which accelerates skin peeling is recommended.
Image: illustration of seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp
Medicinal shampoos should be used according to the manufacturer's instructions until it disappears. If dandruff is also present in the chin or eyebrows, it can be used in these places as well. After that, the treatment is interrupted for 1-3 months. During this time, it is recommended to use gentle pH-neutral shampooshis. In case of recurrence of dandruff, repeat the treatment with medicated shampoo.
Increased exposure to UV rays, which stop the growth of fungi, also contributes to less dandruff. Therefore, most people have fewer problems with the occurrence of dandruff
in the summer
(M.Sc. Grohar Maležič, M.Sc. Pharm.)
CONVENTIONAL MEDICINE
If, despite having already used over-the-counter products, you find that you are still scratching and your dandruff keeps falling out, see your doctor. You may be using the wrong shampoo for your condition. For very stubborn cases of dandruff, you may need to use a prescription steroid lotion.
Most doctors recommend that everyone who suffers from dandruff use a medicated shampoo daily and advises to leave the foam on the scalp for at least 10 minutes. Soap and shampoo that you haven't washed off thoroughly can make skin problems worse. Once the dandruff subsides, use medicated shampoo only once or twice a week, as it is too strong for daily use. If possible, let your hair dry on its own and don't use a hair dryer.
You may find it helpful to brush your hair with a natural bristle brush. Brush from the scalp outwards. This will remove oil from the scalp, where it can cause dandruff, along the hair strands, which need oil to stay shiny and healthy.
ALTERNATIVE MODES
In addition to herbal preparations, other alternative choices can also be effective for treating dandruff - including careful nutrition, mind-body exercises to reduce stress, and massage.
HERBS
To prevent flaking and to protect against infection, try massaging your scalp with tea tree oil (Melaleuca spp). Some practitioners argue that this oil is just as effective as prescription steroid creams.
Dried thyme (Thymus vulgaris), rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) or sage (Salvia otticinalis) can be very effective for rinsing hair. Boil 2 tablespoons of one of these herbs in a cup of water and let it boil for 10 minutes. Strain and cool. Pour the liquid on wet and clean hair and massage it into the scalp. Do not rinse.
MEDICINE OF SPIRIT AND BODY
Stress can make dandruff worse. Regular exercise is not only good for your overall health, but is also one of the most effective ways to relieve stress. It might be wise to add one of the relaxation techniques, for example yoga, to the weekly exercises.
NUTRITION
Dandruff is a common symptom of food allergies and is often the result of the cumulative effect of different allergens, so it is sometimes difficult to find the source of the allergic reaction. For example, you drink milk every day, but you don't associate it with thick scales on your scalp.
If standard anti-dandruff remedies don't work, try cutting out fatty foods (such as nuts and chocolate), dairy products, excessive amounts of sugar, and seafood from your diet. Vitamin supplements such as biotin, thiamin (vitamin B1), niacin (vitamin B3), and cobalamin (vitamin B12) can help eliminate dandruff by increasing the body's ability to break down fatty acids.
HOME REMEDIES
- Massaging the scalp vigorously - while shampooing or while using herbal products such as tea tree oil - improves circulation in the scalp. Improved blood circulation helps the skin not to dry and crack.
- Watch your diet. Dairy products, fatty foods, seafood and too much sugar can make dandruff worse.
- Wash your scalp at least once a week with a medicated anti-dandruff shampoo.
EARS
EAR SYMPTOMS
- Head lice: severe itching of the scalp, especially behind the ears and in the nape of the neck.
- White (clothing) lice: unexplained scratches on the body, hives, eczema and red pimples on the shoulders and trunk.
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR IF:
- need help with lice removal or
- an infection has occurred due to scratching.
Head lice (Podiculus humanus capitis) are the size of a sesame seed and you can see them, although they quickly hide in the light. Their eggs, called nits, are barely visible, whitish dots stuck to the hair. Head lice are extremely contagious, especially among school children. Twice as many girls as boys get head lice, not because of the length of their hair, but because girls have more physical contact with each other and more often borrow personal items (hats, dresses, combs, headphones) that carry lice.
Pub lice (Rhthirius pubis) are yellow-gray insects found on pubic hair and transmitted through sexual contact. They are big for a baby's head, they are partially transparent and barely visible on fair skin. Their eggs are barely visible, white particles, so strongly stuck to the hair that they cannot be removed by normal washing.
White (clothing) lice (Pediculus humanus corporis) look almost the same as head lice, but are harder to find. When they are not feeding, they hide in the folds of clothing or bedding. Signs of their presence are scratches on the body, hives, or small red pimples, usually on the shoulders, trunk or buttocks. If lice are not removed, a rash may develop.
CAUSES
HEALING
CONVENTIONAL MEDICINE
The most common way to get rid of head lice is to kill the adult lice with an insecticidal shampoo and remove the nits with a special dense comb. The safest and most effective preparation is crotamiton lotion, which is available without a prescription. To achieve the best effect, follow the instructions carefully. All family members must be treated; around 60% of children with lice have relatives who transmit them.
To prevent the spread of lice, children should not go to school until the lice have been removed. Wash all clothes, bedding and towels in hot soapy water and dry with hot air. You can also disinfect bed linen and other things: close them in a plastic bag for 14 days - the nits will hatch in a week and die of starvation. Disinfect combs, brushes and headgear by soaking them in hot soapy water for 10 minutes.
If you are reluctant to use insecticides, try to remove lice only by combing. Wash your hair with regular shampoo and conditioner and leave it wet. Using a thick comb, slowly make strokes through only one strand of hair away from the head. The lice will stay on the comb or fall to the floor.
Image: lice comb, regular hygiene is the key to a healthy and clean scalp
You need to make at least 30 strokes with the comb all over the head. Repeat every three days. Since young lice do not lay eggs in the first week, you will remove all lice within two weeks of combing.
You can treat pubic lice with over-the-counter medications that contain pyrethrins (natural insecticides). Sexual partners must also be treated. Pubic lice are sometimes found on the eyebrows or eyelashes; remove them with an appropriate eye ointment.
To treat white lice, wash the whole body with soap and water. If this is not effective, use an insecticide that usually kills all lice. Wash all clothing and bedding in hot water and dry with hot air. Put the clothes in plastic bags for two weeks or disinfect them with dry heat at 60 °C for three to five days.
ALTERNATIVE MODES
AROMATHERAPY
HOMEOPATHY
PREVENTION
Hair loss and lice
Many diseases can cause hair loss. These causes include heredity (family history), poor diet, adverse drug reactions, certain diseases or conditions, stress and hormone fluctuations or hormonal imbalance. However, it makes sense to check that the presence of possible lice is not the cause or stimulus for hair loss on the human head. Namely, lice lay eggs, but neither these parasites nor their eggs will affect the number of hair follicles you have.
When dealing with lice and thinning hair, it would be reasonable to assume that lice could be the cause of thinning hair, especially if you have irritated scalp. However, in general, lice will not directly cause hair loss, so the cause should most often be looked for elsewhere. However, it is possible that head lice are the cause of stress, which is a known cause of hair loss and thinning. Once the primary source of stress is removed, the hair will most likely grow back.
Questions and answers
Can dandruff cause hair loss?
Dandruff itself does not cause hair loss. However, severe dandruff can cause a person to scratch the scalp so hard that it damages it. Recurrent inflammation in the hair follicles can cause damage and scarring and slow or even temporarily stop hair growth. This can lead to weak hair or possible thinning.[1]
Why is my hair falling out due to dandruff?
Tinea capitis: Tinea capitis, sometimes confused with dandruff, is a fungal infection that can cause hair loss.
Telogen effluvium: This type of hair loss causes many follicles to simultaneously enter telogen, the resting phase of hair growth during which hair does not grow.[2]
What happens if dandruff is not treated?
Dandruff is also called a "cosmetic disease". The medical condition is not serious, is not contagious and will not cause other health problems. However, if left untreated, the scalp can become so itchy and inflamed that it causes temporary hair loss. This is another good reason to wash your hair regularly but not too often with an anti-dandruff shampoo.[3]
Can head lice cause hair loss if the condition is not treated?
Untreated head lice can damage the scalp and affect the health of the hair and scalp. If the hair follicles become blocked as a result, hair loss can occur. It's hard to have well-groomed hair when it's covered in nits, lice and bacteria. As a result, the hair is also very difficult to comb and properly care for.
You can only maintain healthy hair if you take care of your hair and your health. If you leave a head lice infection untreated, the consequences can be very unpleasant and are associated with more intense hair loss, which most people do not want.
Sources and references
Source: The Family Health Guide. Conventional and alternative treatment
1. Is there a link between dandruff and hair loss? - https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326960
2. Can Dandruff Cause Hair Loss? - https://www.webmd.com/connect-to-care/hair-loss/can-dandruff-cause-hair-loss
3. Dandruff and Thinning Hair - https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/features/thinning-hair
