Understanding dandruff: basic concepts

What is dandruff?

Dandruff is a condition of the scalp marked by the appearance of flaking of the skin. It is usually marked by irritation and redness on the scalp. While scalp is the commonest site for dandruff, one may find flakiness and dandruff in facial areas rich in oil secreting glands like eyebrows and around the nose.

How is dandruff caused?

Human skin cells keep on renewing themselves. The dead cells are pushed to the scalp surface and then, expelled out. Malassezia fungus normally lives on scalp and survives on oily secretions. Certain conditions trigger fungus overgrowth, which irritates the scalp. Due to this, new skin cells get produced at a faster rate than the older dead cells get expelled. This causes the shedding of more skin, which gets noticed in the form of dandruff.

Both excessive dryness and oily scalp cause dandruff. Application of oil may worsen dandruff if you have already have oily scalp. In most cases, we recommend not to apply oil.

Conditions that trigger fungus growth may include:

Adolescence: Oil-secreting glands are very active in adolescence and puberty, thus dandruff is very common at this age.
Poor scalp hygiene: This occurs due to infrequent or inefficient washing of your hair, that does not completely remove the oil applied on the scalp. Thus, fungus overgrows feeding on oil.
Oily scalp: Application of oil provides abundant of food for fungus, causing its overgrowth.
Stress: Chronic stress may decrease fighting capacity of body against fungus.

How is dandruff treated?

Mild dandruff can be controlled by non-medicated cleansing shampoos available over the counter. Moderate to severe cases of dandruff require the consultation of a dermatologist. Dandruff in theses cases is usually controlled by topical antifungal lotions, mild steroids or salicylic acid. Resistant cases may require a short course of oral antifungals.

Even with the best treatments available, dandruff can only be controlled, but not cured completely. There are chances of recurrence. In such cases, preventive measures are important as: good scalp hygiene, avoidance of oil application on scalp, a healthy diet and stress-free life style.

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Dr Monika Misra

Consultant cosmetologist at Dermacosm clinic

Dr Monika Misra is a consultant cosmetologist at Dermacosm clinic. She possesses more than 5 years of experience in dermatosurgical procedures, chemical peels, microneedling, and radiofrequency.