What Is Dandruff?
Many people experience dandruff in their daily lives. It is actually a natural byproduct of scalp cell metabolism. Under normal conditions, these dead skin cells gradually shed. However, when the metabolic rate accelerates abnormally, cells do not complete their life cycle before shedding. Instead, they combine with scalp oils, forming visible dandruff flakes.
What Causes Dandruff?
Dandruff formation is influenced by several factors, primarily including:
- Excessive Scalp Cell Turnover: When cell renewal speeds up, dead skin cells accumulate before they can shed properly.
- Excess Sebum Production: Too much oil causes skin cells to stick together, forming large dandruff flakes.
- Overgrowth of Malassezia (Pityrosporum Ovale): This fungus naturally coexists on human skin, but when its population becomes imbalanced, it can trigger scalp inflammation and dandruff formation.
Intrinsic and Extrinsic Causes of Dandruff
| Intrinsic Factors | Extrinsic Factors |
|---|---|
| Stress and fatigue | Environmental and climate changes |
| Immune system disorders | Improper use of hair care products |
| Genetic predisposition | Hairstyling and chemical treatments |
| Unbalanced diet |
Types of Dandruff
| Type of Dandruff | Description |
|---|---|
| Pathological Dandruff (Severe Type) | Accompanied by inflammation, redness, intense itching; may be related to seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis. |
| Common Dandruff | Caused by environmental factors, stress, or shampooing habits; classified into oily and dry dandruff. |
| Oily Dandruff | Sticks to the scalp and is often accompanied by a greasy sensation. |
| Dry Dandruff | Falls off in flakes, more common in dry environments or during autumn and winter. |
How to Effectively Treat and Prevent Dandruff?
Dandruff Treatment
- Avoid internal and external triggers that can exacerbate dandruff.
- Use dermatologically recommended anti-dandruff shampoos to enhance treatment effectiveness and reduce recurrence.
- If scalp problems persist, consult a dermatologist as soon as possible.
Daily Scalp Care Tips
- Maintain a Healthy Diet and Lifestyle: Avoid spicy foods, late nights, excessive alcohol consumption, and manage stress. Ensure sufficient sleep and maintain a positive mindset.
- Proper Scalp Hygiene: Keeping the scalp clean prevents bacterial overgrowth, reducing inflammation caused by excessive scalp oil.
- Choose the Right Shampoo: Select products suitable for your scalp type and avoid irritating chemicals or excessive washing.
- Use Medicated Anti-Dandruff Shampoos: Opt for shampoos containing ingredients that fight Malassezia, dissolve dead skin, balance oil production, reduce inflammation, and relieve itching. Massage the scalp with fingertips for a few minutes to help remove dandruff and soothe irritation.
- Adjust Shampooing Frequency Based on Scalp Type and Season:
- In autumn and winter, when dandruff is more common and scalp oil production decreases, wash hair 2–3 times per week.
- For normal scalp types, wash 3–4 times per week.
- For oily scalps, daily shampooing in summer may be necessary.
- Avoid Scratching the Scalp: Refrain from using sharp objects like fingernails or combs to scratch the scalp.
- Use Lukewarm Water for Shampooing: Water that is too hot can irritate the scalp and worsen dryness and itching.
Conclusion
Although dandruff is a common issue, it can be effectively managed with proper scalp care and the right choice of shampoo. If symptoms persist, it is advisable to visit a dermatologist for professional assistance to maintain scalp health.
This translation maintains a professional tone suitable for medical and dermatological discussions. Let me know if you need any refinements! 😊