Dandruff, a harmless and chronic condition, occurs when the scalp is dry or oily and produces thin dead skins. While these small white patches are harmless more than once, they can be irritating.
Skin cells are always formed in the scalp, shedding of dead skin cells is therefore a normal process. However, when there is dandruff, shedding is sometimes accelerated. The oil in the scalp causes these cells to gather in a middle, giving them the appearance of white scales.
Dandruff can be caused by a variety of factors, including dry skin, extreme sensitivity to hair care products, and certain conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis and eczema. Overgrowth of yeast-like fungi can also cause dandruff. This can also be caused by tension, hormonal levels, having too much oil on the scalp, or problems with the immune system.
Could be seborrheic dermatitis
Dandruff appears as white flakes on the hair and shoulders. It is accompanied by itching, redness, and flaking on the scalp. Dandruff is mostly distributed all over the scalp.
If dandruff is caused by seborrheic dermatitis, symptoms often come on gradually. The scalp becomes dry or oily, red, and itchy. When skin cells die, they form yellowish scales. Severe episodes of seborrheic dermatitis can also cause symptoms in other parts of the body. Yellowish or reddish scales may appear on the hair, in and around the ears, or on the nose or trunk.
You can diagnose dandruff yourself; If the scalp is itchy, dry, and full of scales, you have a dandruff problem. Reddish skin and yellowish and oily scales appear in seborrheic dermatitis.
5 most common causes of dandruff
Dandruff is a hair problem that affects almost every 2 individuals, mostly men. While not harmful, they can have an impact on self-esteem and quality of life. Therefore, it is very valuable to understand the source of dandruff and solve the problem.
Here are the 5 most common causes of dandruff.
Hair susceptible to fungi
Contrary to popular belief, dandruff is not caused by dry skin. The true-false is an overabundance of a fungus called pityrosporum ovale. This fungus feeds on body oils, which makes oily scalps more susceptible to dandruff.
Some people who make an oil that is particularly popular with these mushrooms may experience major dandruff problems. Normally, mild cases of dandruff respond well to medication. Therefore, do not hesitate to buy over-the-counter anti-dandruff shampoos.
Stress
Dandruff can be a sign that you need to relax. Tension can make any skin problem worse. Tension weakens your immune system and can cause dandruff.
Stress can trigger itching, and the more a person scratches, the more dandruff they develop. Try walking daily or breathing deeply (inhale for a count of four, hold your breath for a count of four, exhale for a count of four).
Not washing hair properly
Some people wash their hair frequently to get rid of all oil. However, some oils can also act as a preventative for dandruff. In such cases, tea tree oil, which is known to deal effectively with dandruff, can be used. Also, care should be taken to rinse the shampoo properly. Shampoo residues can create a suitable place for dandruff.
Unhealthy eating
Healthy skin and hair develop only in a healthy body. A poor diet can be responsible for dandruff. Experts state that certain foods can cause dandruff, especially if you are prone to dandruff.
Try to consume more healthy monounsaturated fats. Avocado, hazelnut, olive, and safflower oil are great sources. A lack of B vitamins, especially biotin, which supports hair cells, can also aggravate dandruff. Eat foods that are high in B vitamins, such as oatmeal, rice, eggs, and bananas.
Unconscious use of maintenance artifacts
The use of certain oils can aggravate dandruff. Fungi feed on oils and can multiply in their presence. Minimize the use of hairsprays, styling gels, and mousses as much as possible. These styling artifacts can build up on your hair and scalp and create an oily layer.
Natural anti-dandruff recipes
Stress, rising temperatures, air pollution… All of these can aggravate dandruff. But there are many works that will fight dandruff. You can also try natural remedies to get rid of dandruff.
honey massage
Mix a teaspoon of honey in a glass of hot water. This mixture can be used to massage your scalp with any shampoo.
Pre-shampoo apple cider vinegar mask
You only need one ingredient for this anti-dandruff definition: Apple cider vinegar. Massage your scalp with pure apple cider vinegar about 1 hour before your shampoo. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes before washing your hair.
lemon essential oil
Add 7 drops of lemon essential oil to plain yogurt. Apply the mixture you prepared before your shampoo, and massage for 10 minutes. Rinse, be careful not to get it in your eyes, and finish with your shampoo.
Antifungal essential oil
Just choose the anti-fungal essential oil that works best for you: Eucalyptus, palmarosa, sage, lemon, rosemary, thyme, lavender, or tea tree. Add two drops of the essential oil of your choice to your usual shampoo.
salt scrub
By rubbing your scalp with a mixture of a handful of fine salt and half a glass of water, you will activate the blood circulation and eliminate your dandruff.
Tea tree anti-dandruff mask
Apply a mixture of about 20 drops of tea tree extract and 5 tablespoons of jojoba oil to damp hair. Let it sit for an hour and rinse it off properly.
Baking soda
This magical work helps your dandruff disappear. Add a teaspoon to your regular shampoo and massage your scalp gently.
Thyme
Boil thyme and rinse your previously washed hair with it.
Olive oil and garlic
Crush a clove of garlic. Mix a quarter cup of oil in a saucepan. Be careful not to boil it. Let it cool and apply to your hair. Massage in circular motions and wrap your hair. Let it sit for about an hour and then wash it off with a mild shampoo.
fenugreek seeds
Fenugreek seeds, rich in proteins and amino acids, allow more adequate hair growth and reduce dandruff. Soak the seeds in two glasses of water and leave them overnight. The next morning, crush it to a paste-like consistency and apply it to the hair. After 30-45 minutes, rinse the hair and wash with a mild shampoo or water.