Why does dandruff form? Causes of dandruff, treatment methods, folk remedies. Onion for dandruff

Dandruff, translated from Latin, means bran - indeed, the appearance of exfoliated skin particles resembles this dietary product.

Such a common, and for some, lifelong phenomenon as dandruff, from a medical point of view, is a syndrome characterized by a high rate of exfoliation of skin particles in the form of scales.

As a rule, dandruff is a long-term problem and is most often observed on the scalp. Doctors consider dandruff a mild form of seborrheic dermatitis. In this article we will talk about dandruff, its causes and treatment in various ways.

Causes of dandruff on the head

There are several reasons that provoke increased exfoliation of skin particles, but most often the symptom is caused by several factors that aggravate one:

• Metabolic disorders are the root cause of dandruff, making the body more vulnerable to the action of pathogenetic factors.
• Hormonal imbalances are the most common causes of dandruff in women.
• Some diseases (gastrointestinal tract, endocrine system, bronchopulmonary pathologies, neurological diseases, immunodeficiencies);
• Hereditary predisposition is a factor that cannot be corrected.
• Improper functioning of the sebaceous glands.
• Dietary disorder, hypovitaminosis.
• Mental and physical stress.
• A fungal infection caused by Pityrosporum Ovale - yeast-like fungi, representatives of the normal microflora of the scalp.
• Improper scalp care (over-drying with a hairdryer, curling irons, frequent coloring);
• Irrational use of headwear (not wearing a hat in winter or wearing a warm headwear in hot weather);
• Insufficient scalp hygiene. However, this reason can only be realized in very advanced cases, when people completely neglect washing their hair.

Risk factors for the development of dandruff

If we consider dandruff as a form, then dandruff refers to the dry form of the disease. At the same time, sebum secretion is significantly reduced, and the natural exfoliation of skin scales is accelerated 3 times and takes 1 week instead of 4.

There is a classification of dandruff into dry and oily, but many experts consider it incorrect, since with true dandruff there is always a reduced secretion of sebum. Oily dandruff is rarely pronounced; particles of exfoliated epithelium are observed on the hair and rarely on the skin itself. But dry dandruff is always abundant and occurs with severe skin irritation and itching.

Dandruff symptoms

• visible white flakes of exfoliated skin on hair, shoulders, clothing, headdress, comb;
• dry skin, but also oily skin There may also be dandruff, since both conditions are variations of metabolic disorders;
• irritation of affected skin;
• dullness and fragility of hair;
• with progression or long-term course: enlargement of scales, reddish spots and yellowish crusts on the skin.

Differential diagnosis

Before diagnosing yourself, you should visit a doctor and rule out pathologies such as psoriasis and eczema. Both diseases rarely affect only the scalp and have widespread distribution and additional symptoms.

What absolutely should not be done for dandruff

• Scratch your head. Dandruff and itching are an unpleasant combination, and itching aggravates the pathology. Scratching and scratching your already irritated skin will make the problem worse. Infectious agents easily penetrate through microdamages, which leads to the formation of pustules;
• Use alcohol-based products, which greatly dry out already dry skin;
• Dye your hair and use other aggressive hair products;
• Use metal combs, the teeth of which damage the skin and increase dandruff.
• You should forget about hair dryers, straighteners and curling irons.

Dandruff Treatment Methods

Methods for treating dandruff can be divided into traditional and folk. The effectiveness of the chosen method depends on the correct application. Before using any treatment method, you should visit a doctor (dermatologist or trichologist) - perhaps the problem is much more serious than it seems.

Traditional methods

Antifungal therapy is prescribed to all patients, since in the vast majority of cases the fungus is the cause of dandruff or is added later. Medicinal shampoos and lotions, main active ingredients:

Clotrimazole (Cloderm) antifungal substance that disrupts the integrity of fungal membranes	Ketoconazole Azole, which has a fungistatic and fungicidal effect: Mycozoral, Nizoral, Perhotal, Sebozol.			Bifonazole (Bifon) antifungal agent with prolonged action (up to 48 hours)
Ichthyol (Dermasens) contains sulfur, which has local analgesic, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects, normalizes the cell metabolism cycle	Zinc pyrithione (Friderm Zinc) antimicrobial and antifungal action	Ciclopirox (Sebiprox) pronounced fungicidal activity	Octopirox (Seborin) substance with antifungal activity	Salicylic Acid (Salicylic Shampoo) has keratolytic and antimicrobial effects
Quassia Amara Extract (Quasix Cream) plant with antimicrobial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory effects	Selenium sulfide slows down cell division and acts on fungus: Selegel, Sulsen and Sulsen-forte.		Medical tar (T/Gel Neutrogena, Friederm Tar, Sebuton) disinfects the skin, reduces, normalizes cell turnover

Shampoos and lotions containing a combination of several active substances have the greatest effect.

Keto plus zinc pyrithione + ketaconazole	Qelual DS zinc pyrithione + cyclopiroxolamine + keluamide	Algopix medical tar + salicylic acid	Elfa ketaconazole + zinc	NodeDS climbazole + salicylic acid + zinc pyrithione	Phytosilic salicylic acid + tea tree, cypress, frankincense oils

General instructions for the use of medicated shampoos

All medicated shampoos require long-term use for 2-6 weeks, and then preventive use 1-2 times a week.

Like other medicinal formulations, shampoos and lotions have some contraindications for use and a number of side effects - this should be taken into account before starting treatment.

A sufficient amount of medicated shampoo is applied to the hair, foams and is evenly distributed on the skin and hair. The exposure time is on average 5-10 minutes, after which the shampoo is thoroughly washed off with running water.

What about the advertised Head & Shoulders shampoo from Procter & Gamble? This shampoo does not belong to the medicinal group, although it contains zinc pyrithione. This means that the concentration of the active substance is such that there will be no harm from the shampoo, but it will not be able to cure dandruff.

Drugs used to normalize lipolysis processes

• Methionine – normalizes the synthesis of phospholipids from fats.
• Riboflavin – participates in fat metabolism, normalizes redox processes.

General restorative therapy

Dandruff often accompanies immunodeficiency conditions, hypovitaminosis, and dysbacteriosis. Therefore, vitamin-mineral complexes (see), immunomodulators (see) and probiotics are prescribed in the treatment complex: (see).

Lifestyle, nutrition

As in the fight against any other disease, nutrition, emotional and physical well-being play an important, if not the main role in the fight against dandruff. Nutrition should be complete in terms of vitamin, mineral and protein composition, but the fat and carbohydrate portion should be limited. You should enrich your diet with herbs, vegetables and fruits, and seafood.

Normalizing the emotional state is sometimes key in the treatment of dandruff. If it is difficult to cope with traumatic situations on your own, you should consult a psychotherapist. It is possible to use mild sedatives, for example, Persen (see).

Treatment of dandruff with folk remedies

Traditional treatments for dandruff are often much more effective than advertised drugs. According to statistics, only 5% of people suffering from dandruff turn to specialists for help, while the rest either do not receive treatment at all or use their grandmother’s methods. Of course, this approach is wrong, but thanks to these people we learn effective ways to combat dandruff.

Phytotherapy

Nettle

In addition to the general strengthening, anti-inflammatory and natural antiseptic effect, it helps to renew the cellular composition of the epidermis. This plant contains organic acids, vitamin C in an amount ten times higher than that in lemon, as well as B vitamins, carotene, minerals, tannins and phytoncides.

To combat dandruff, use nettle infusion for a long time, until the symptoms completely disappear. 5 tbsp. fresh chopped nettle or 2 tbsp. dry plant is poured with a glass of boiling water and kept in a water bath for 10 minutes. The finished solution is filtered through gauze and rubbed into the scalp daily. After washing your hair, you should also rinse your hair with nettle infusion; there is no need to rinse it off with water.

Onion

This folk healer has long been used to treat hair, not only those affected by dandruff, but also brittle and dull hair. Onions contain active phytoncides that destroy fungus and bacteria, as well as vitamins and minerals. Many people refuse this affordable method of fighting dandruff because of the specific smell of onions, which is very easy to get rid of by thoroughly rinsing your hair with cool water after the procedure.

The bulbs are crushed into a paste, which is carefully distributed on the scalp. Put a cellophane cap on top and wrap your head with a towel. Leave the mask on for 2 hours, then wash your hair with neutral shampoo and rinse thoroughly. The procedure should be repeated twice a week until dandruff completely disappears.

Burdock roots

Burdock or burdock can be found in many hair products, but, as you know, there is nothing better than a freshly prepared medicinal composition. Burdock is a powerful antiseptic, contains tannins, and has a wound-healing and regenerating effect (see all).

You can use a traditional infusion of burdock roots in boiling water, but the most effective is burdock emulsion. To prepare it, pour a tablespoon of crushed burdock root with unrefined vegetable oil in a volume of 200 ml. The mixture is sealed and infused in the dark and warm for 2 weeks, after which the plant material is filtered. The finished emulsion is stored in the refrigerator.

This healing composition is considered the most effective in the fight against dandruff; the main thing is to use it correctly and regularly. Twice a week, an hour before washing your hair, rub the emulsion into the scalp and hair roots. Wash off with shampoo and plenty of water.

Treatment with oils

Vegetable oils are widely used in the fight against dandruff because they have a complex effect on the scalp: they not only eliminate dandruff, but also heal the skin by eliminating microflora imbalance. The most effective oils:

• Tea tree: eliminates dandruff, fights dry skin, improving the natural lipid layer.
• Basil: is an antioxidant, has antibacterial properties, stimulates hair growth.
• Chamomile: has antiseptic properties, eliminates itching and irritation, accelerates skin regeneration.
• Lemon: has powerful antibacterial properties, normalizes sebum secretion, and destroys fungus.
• Myrrh: cleanses the skin of keratinized epithelium, regulates the function of the sebaceous glands.
• Patchouli: regenerates cells, promotes healing of microdamages.
• Mint: eliminates redness and irritation of the skin, reduces itching.
• Neema: eliminates fungus, heals the skin.

To prepare the medicinal composition, it is necessary to use basic neutral oil: cedar, olive, sesame, linseed, jojoba. Jojoba oil is preferred because its composition is closest to that of human fat. For 60 ml of base oil, take 20 drops of therapeutic oil. The resulting mixture is stored in the refrigerator in a closed container.

For the procedure, use about 1 teaspoon of the mixture (the mixture of oils is shaken before each use). Apply the oil to your fingertips and gently rub it into your scalp for a few minutes. If everything is done correctly, no greasy film will form on the hair. The mixture should not be washed off, but if you still need to wash your hair, you can do this an hour after the procedure. Frequency: 2-3 times a week.

other methods

Egg mask

Chicken eggs contain lecithin, vitamins and minerals that help eliminate dandruff, improve hair condition and soothe the skin.

To prepare a therapeutic mask, 1 egg is beaten into foam and mixed in equal proportions with natural yogurt. The mixture is distributed on the scalp and hair, covered with cellophane and a towel and left for an hour, after which it is washed off with cool water. Frequency: 2-3 times a week.

Bread paste

Black bread is a real savior for dry and brittle hair and damaged skin. The yeast in baked bread is no longer so aggressive, but at the same time perfectly cleanses the skin without drying it out.

A piece of black bread is crushed and poured with boiling water. When the mixture has cooled (to about 50 C), wash your hair with this mixture, rubbing it into the hair, and then rinse with cool water. There is no need to use shampoo - your hair will be fresh and clean. You can use this method constantly, there is no harm or addiction.

Curdled milk

Curdled milk provides vitamin nutrition to the hair and scalp. Due to the content of folic acid, curdled milk has an anti-inflammatory effect, choline normalizes the function of the sebaceous glands, proteins and lactic acid restore the skin.

It is best to use homemade yogurt. The product is slightly warmed and applied to unwashed but slightly moisturized hair and scalp, left for 40 minutes under cellophane and a terry towel, and then rinsed with warm water and neutral shampoo. Repeat the procedure 2 times a week.

Many people are interested in the question: is it possible to use traditional methods of treating dandruff along with traditional treatment? If you have been prescribed shampoo to treat dandruff, do not neglect the recommendation. Traditional methods can be used if basic treatment is ineffective or if you cannot yet reach a doctor.

Whatever dandruff treatment you use, don’t wait. instant effect, and it is not needed - gradual, natural restoration of the condition of the scalp is the best guarantee of the absence of relapses of dandruff!

The more common name for dandruff is seborrhea. Occurring as an inflammatory process in the scalp, this disease is characterized by improper functioning of the sebaceous glands, as a result of which the secretion of sebaceous secretion increases or decreases. In some cases, with seborrhea, the chemical composition of sebum is also disrupted.

Causes of dandruff on the head

Fungal skin infection

The cause of seborrhea on the head is the spread and increase in the number of fungi from the genus of yeast Malassezia Furfur/Pityrosporum Ovale (Malassezia Furfur/Pityrosporum Ovale). These microorganisms live in the scalp of most people without harm to health. If the number of fungi does not exceed 30-50% (according to an article by T.V. Ileshin, Central Committee for VI, Moscow) of the entire microflora of a given zone, i.e., its normal value, then dandruff does not occur. However, under suitable conditions, microorganisms begin to multiply rapidly, feeding on sebum. As a result of fungal infection and the development of seborrhea, increased keratinization of epidermal cells develops; skin cells grow and divide unevenly, not having time to go through the entire exfoliation cycle and sticking together. The keratinized particles mix with fats and form scales, which causes dandruff on the head.

Psoriasis

With this disease, there is an accumulation of many dead skin cells that stick together into dense gray flakes of dandruff. Typically, the affected areas are localized on the knees, elbows, torso, and less often on the scalp. In the latter case, psoriasis is difficult to distinguish from fungal seborrhea.

Eczema

Eczema, which occurs on the scalp, is the cause of dandruff in relatively rare cases. However, if this disease is accurately identified, the likelihood of an increase in the number of flaking scales on the affected area of ​​​​the skin is very high.

Contact dermatitis

This disease is most often a reaction to cosmetical tools. The reason for a negative skin reaction to the use of shampoos, masks, lotions, gels, and hair dyes is tissue sensitivity to some components of these drugs, most often to paraphenylene diamine.

Other diseases

For unknown reasons, people suffering from neurological diseases (for example, Parkinson's disease) are more at risk of developing seborrhea on the head. Also at risk for dandruff are people with cardiovascular diseases, a weakened immune system or gastrointestinal diseases.

Factors influencing the development of fungal infection

Seborrhea on the head (the correct name is seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp) can appear in almost any person, but there are a number of factors that contribute to the appearance of dandruff.

Mature age

Most often, dandruff on the head occurs in people aged 30 to 55 years. This risk of developing seborrhea is associated with the age-related manifestation of systemic disorders in the functioning of the body and weakened immunity.

Male

Dandruff is more common in men than in women, which is why there is a hypothesis that male sex hormones play a certain role in its occurrence. Also, the likelihood of a favorable environment for fungus and the development of seborrhea in men is higher due to the presence of a larger number of sebaceous glands in the scalp.

Oily skin or hair

To feed the Malassezia fungus, it needs fats that are produced by the sebaceous glands. Therefore, increased oily skin is a risk factor for the development of seborrhea on the head and the appearance of dandruff.

Improper hair care

The cause of dandruff can be the use of shampoos containing aggressive surfactants, too frequent or, conversely, infrequent washing and combing of hair. In addition, seborrhea on the head may be associated with the use of various means for styling (foams, varnishes), blow-drying and styling hair using hot curling irons.

Poor nutrition

Seborrhea on the head can be caused by malfunctions of the gastrointestinal tract and weakening of the general immune system, which in turn arise due to the abuse of fried, salty, spicy, sweet, fatty foods, and alcohol. A risk factor for dandruff is a lack of fermented milk and dairy foods in the diet, as well as foods containing vitamins A, B, C and E, copper, calcium, zinc, and selenium.

Cold season

Symptoms of seborrhea more often occur in the cold season, since the development of the disease is facilitated by frequent temperature changes (outdoors - indoors). The fungus that causes dandruff on the head multiplies well in a warm, moist environment, which often occurs under winter hats.

Symptoms of seborrhea

Peeling

Dandruff with seborrhea is clearly visible, flaking particles of the stratum corneum of the skin. Depending on the type and thickness, these scales are scaly, leaf-shaped, layered, rough, easily separated or firmly held on the skin. Color can vary from white to grayish-silver and yellow. In people with dark hair who suffer from seborrhea, dandruff is more noticeable, and when combing, the scales move along the entire length of the hair.

Itching

In addition to dandruff, seborrhea causes itching, which provokes intense scratching of the skin. As a result, redness, inflammation and partial softening of the epidermis may occur.

Deterioration of hair condition

Since the layer of dandruff in seborrhea prevents the normal functioning of the hair follicles, the hair does not receive sufficient nutrition and becomes dull, brittle, and split. If you do not find out why this pathology occurred and do not take any measures to treat it, hair loss may begin.

Treatment of dandruff with NIZORAL® shampoo

A remedy for the treatment of seborrhea on the head, which helps to achieve a lasting result, is NIZORAL® anti-dandruff shampoo. The active ingredient of this drug is ketoconazole, a substance with a strong antifungal effect. Thanks to this, NIZORAL ® not only eliminates unpleasant symptoms, but also successfully fights the cause of dandruff - a fungus that causes the development of seborrhea on the head (seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp).

The effectiveness of ketoconazole against pathogens has been confirmed by the successful results of 64 clinical studies. This remedy can help defeat the pathogenic fungus and eliminate the symptoms of seborrhea in 2 weeks, after which the hair takes on a clean, tidy appearance and looks healthy.

Every healthy person renews the stratum corneum of the skin once a month. However, for a number of reasons this process may accelerate. That's when dandruff appears.

Seborrhea, or dandruff, is a process in which there are too many exfoliated skin particles on the surface of the head. When the number of such scales exceeds the norm, they “decorate” clothing and bring with them many inconveniences such as itching and redness, a serious problem arises.

IMPORTANT!
Dandruff can be contagious. That's why You should not use other people’s combs and other hygiene items. scalp.

It’s just impossible, especially if you’re only self-medicating. Important problems and based on it, select .

It is believed that the root of the disease is the activity of a special fungus due to a number of reasons. But in reality everything is not so simple. It is necessary to consider all possible options for the occurrence of seborrhea. And it’s worth starting with the most basic.

A sebum production disorder is something that causes either too much or too little sebum production. In the first case, the skin becomes too oily, clogged pores and acne appear, and oily dandruff then appears on the head. In the second case, the skin lacks hydration, it dries out and flakes off more. it's the same leads to dandruff formation.

Normally, sebum creates a protective layer on the skin and prevents microorganisms, including fungi, from developing. When some kind of failure occurs and these processes are disrupted, fungal activity may increase.

Hormonal levels, especially in women, are very unstable. Any stress, changes in diet, or in the environment can lead to its disorders.

Ages 14 to 25 a stable hormonal background of the body develops. It is during this period that seborrhea can develop. Due to the constant shift in the balance of hormones, the process of sebum production may also be disrupted. Therefore, problems with the skin, including the scalp, appear. The same thing happens in pregnant women.

Such problems also occur in adulthood., both in men and women. In this case, before treating symptoms such as seborrhea imbalanced hormone balance should be rebalanced.

Fungus

The main factor that causes dandruff is the excessive activity of the fungus Malassezia Furfur on the surface of the skin. It is this that leads to the appearance of “snow” on clothes. How does this happen?

Excessive sebum production creates a favorable environment for microorganisms. This fungus thrives in such an environment. And when it begins to multiply quickly, it irritates the scalp. The renewal cycle of scalp cells, which do not have time to properly exfoliate, accelerates. And this manifests itself in the form of dandruff.

Its reproduction is also influenced by the predominance of male hormones in the body.. Immunity disorders due to poor nutrition, stress, and illness can also cause seborrhea.

IMPORTANT!
There are many reasons for the development of fungus. They are mainly associated with disruptions in the immune system and hormonal background as in the first cause.

But not only the reasons listed above affect the appearance of white scales. Many skin diseases can also cause them.. But in this case, we are still not really dealing with dandruff.

For example, psoriasis. This chronic, non-contagious disease causes silvery, clearly defined scales to appear on the skin in different places, which itch and peel off. If there are lesions on the scalp, hair loss may begin. It also occurs by various reasons, but they are often much more serious than seborrhea.

With dermatitis and eczema, the skin also becomes red, itchy and flaky.. But the external manifestations are different from dandruff. Another thing is that dermatitis and eczema can underlie the appearance of seborrhea. Then, having cured this root cause, you will get rid of dandruff.

Other factors

In addition to the main reasons listed above, a number of additional ones can be identified. These include:

• unsuitable water and care products;
• lack of vitamins and minerals obtained from food;
• violation of hair drying conditions and caring for them;
• presence of hereditary diseases and predisposition to the appearance of seborrhea;
• permanent being under stress.

REFERENCE
The appearance of signs of seborrhea is always based on internal or external causes associated with improper care. It is important to find out in each specific case what leads to its development, and based on this, select treatment.

Symptoms and types of dandruff

The symptoms of seborrhea are always approximately the same:

• the appearance of skin flakes;
• skin redness;
• in some cases - a violation of the integrity of the skin, the appearance of acne and scratching.

All this indicates the presence of a seborrhea problem.. However, we should not forget that the course of the disease is always individual. Also exists depending on the root causes.

Let's look at them in order.

You should not let the course of the disease take its course, because this is fraught with the appearance of more serious problems in the form of baldness and infection of the body with various infections.

REFERENCE
Identifying the cause of each type of seborrhea requires comprehensive studies of the body.

Dandruff treatment and what can help

It is important to distinguish the symptoms of seborrhea from other diseases. And in order to find a solution to the problem for each specific case - you should consult a dermatologist and trichologist. A complete examination of the body will reveal the root cause and will eliminate it and its consequences in the form of dandruff.

These can be hormonal drugs if the general background is disturbed, as well as drugs aimed at the problem.

A special diet and vitamin and mineral supplements are also prescribed. A external manifestations are removed with the help of hair and skin care products.

Physiotherapy

It is useful not only to relieve symptoms and treat the body from the inside, but also to undergo some procedures.

• For example, it dries out the skin, which is useful for oily seborrhea.
• helps improve blood circulation and destroys fungus.
• And it can even boost immunity.

So, if the doctor has prescribed you to attend these procedures, you should listen to his opinion and go through them completely. They will not only relieve dandruff problems, but also improve the overall condition of the scalp and hair.

Traditional methods of treatment

Phytotherapy– a good aid for getting rid of dandruff. This method is time-tested and has proven itself on the positive side.

For example, for oily seborrhea, essential oils and natural oils in the composition and as additional components to care products.

Rinsing your hair with a variety of herbal decoctions also helps get rid of the effects of seborrhea. Herbs such as chamomile, St. John's wort, nettle, calendula and others work best.

sea ​​salt and Apple vinegar as components of masks help exfoliate the skin, destroy fungus and its manifestations. But the main thing here is not to harm yourself, so the holding time on the hair must be strictly observed.

Prevention

In order to prevent the recurrence of seborrhea, you can use both special care products such as hair masks and.

It is important to choose prevention methods that work in a particular case. However, too strong drugs should not be used without a doctor's permission.

Features of the use of medicated anti-dandruff shampoos

When choosing hair care products for dandruff, it is important that they contain the following substances:

• – fungus-killing substance;
  
• - a product with similar properties with a big plus - it does not become addictive, unlike the previous one;
  
• – an exfoliating component that also prevents the reappearance of dandruff;
  
• – exfoliating and skin cleansing components.
  

At the beginning of treatment, the frequency of use of such shampoos and hair products is at least twice a week, then it is reduced to once every 1.5-2 weeks.

Scalp hygiene

When washing, you should use products suitable for your hair type. The frequency of washing your hair is at least once every two days. Pillowcases and towels need to be changed regularly, and ideally, the pillow needs to be replaced. It is also useful to comb your hair with a fine comb and massage the scalp when applying care products and masks.

IMPORTANT!
If your hair is not very dirty, you can get rid of dandruff much faster. That's why it's like that it is important to monitor their hygiene.

Conclusion

So, there are many reasons for the appearance of seborrhea, as well as ways to treat it. The main thing is to find the root of the problem and, in accordance with it, select methods for getting rid of dandruff. With a competent approach and following all the instructions of the treating specialist, this delicate problem will quickly become a thing of the past and will never return.

Dandruff affects more than 30% of the world's population and is the result of excessive flaking of the skin. These processes not only bring aesthetic discomfort, but also cause unbearable itching, thereby worsening the quality of life.

Before starting therapeutic actions, you should find out the cause of the problem and begin treatment accordingly. In our article we will go into detail about where dandruff comes from and how to deal with it.

How is pathology formed?

Dandruff is horny scales that flake off from the scalp from time to time.

The entire epithelial cells change at intervals of 1 month, based on which the mild manifestation of dandruff is not a problem, this is a normal physiological process in which it is easily washed off during hygiene procedures.

However, if there are certain disorders in the body, then keratinized scales will be produced in larger quantities, retained by the hair, and begin to form into a crust, as a result of which contact with air becomes difficult. Signs of dandruff also manifest as weakening hair, which becomes more fragile and brittle. Based individual characteristics the work of the sebaceous glands, the following types of dandruff are distinguished:

The appearance of dandruff can occur in both men and women, and most often it develops in children during adolescence, but after reaching 40 years of age, the issue begins to lose its relevance.

Risk factors

To fight effectively, you need to understand what causes dandruff, since only taking into account the reasons for its occurrence can you achieve the expected result. Many people wonder why dandruff appears on the head. Dandruff has the following most common causes, on which its treatment depends:

Unfortunately, dandruff can appear in any person, regardless of gender or social status. However, there are common risk factors that influence the causes of dandruff.

Methods of influence

When dandruff occurs, the causes and treatment are closely related. Before you start treating dandruff, you need to understand why it appears, because there are cases when it indicates the presence of disorders in the body, sometimes it is the first signal that you need to see a doctor in order to detect serious diseases at the initial stage.

Sometimes the question of how to cure dandruff on the head may require the help of an endocrinologist or immunologist, since without finding out the cause that caused this problem, it will be impossible to effectively cure dandruff. In this case, local remedies will be powerless.

Before treating dandruff, you should find out where it comes from, for which you need to follow simple steps:

1. Change shampoo.
2. Try not to use hair styling products, hair dryers, curling irons, or straighteners.
3. You need to pay increased attention to your diet, limit the consumption of sweet, spicy, pickled, and floury foods.
4. If dandruff appears, especially of the dry type, do not wash your hair every day, as this will lead to excessive dryness and, as a result, increased functioning of the sebaceous glands. When the fat layer is frequently washed away, the epithelium dries out or releases more lubricating fluid.

Traditional therapy

However, sometimes getting rid of dandruff through the above steps will not be easy; without the help of a specialist, this process can drag on for a long time. If the pathology has not acquired a complex form, then along with coordination of the emotional level, you should use the following recommendations:

Alternative methods

In combination with traditional therapy, it is allowed to use treatment with folk remedies, which consolidate the result. However, before using traditional methods, you should be sure that there is no allergic reaction to the components that make up them. The most common remedies include the following recipes:

You should start treating dandruff at the very beginning of its appearance in order to get rid of its presence forever.

It is important to remember that 2-3 procedures will not help get rid of this problem; most often, long-term complex therapy is required. The likelihood of successful treatment increases with a professional approach, so when the first symptoms of pathology appear, you should consult a doctor.

The causative agent of the disease is the fungus Pityrosporum Ovale, which is present on the scalp of every person. Under the influence of various negative factors, the vital activity of the fungus is activated, its number increases and the life cycle of the cells of the epidermis of the head is disrupted. Instead of the required twenty-eight to thirty-two days, they live only eight, which leads to the accumulation of dead particles on the surface of the skin. That is why dandruff is a medical, not a cosmetic problem, and it should be solved under the guidance of a dermatologist or trichologist.

The appearance of dandruff is not affected by the quality of the hair - it can occur regardless of whether it is dry, oily or normal. As for the age factor, it plays an important role. It has been noted that young people aged 14-25 years are most susceptible to its appearance - it is at this age that sebum is secreted in excess, which is an additional provoking factor. In older people, the secretion of sebum is minimized, which is why dandruff practically does not occur.

CAUSES

The causes of dandruff are based on a number of factors associated with functional malfunctions in the body's systems, mainly endocrine, nervous and digestive. In addition, the appearance of excessive peeling is often due to external causes related to the environment and skin care.

Diseases that contribute to the appearance of dandruff:

• neurological disorders: stress, depression, chronic fatigue syndrome, ;
• unbalanced diet: eating too many sweets and flour products;
• obesity;
• diseases of the gastrointestinal tract: and duodenum;
• chronic diseases urinary system: , ;
• genetically determined features of the structure and secretion of the scalp;
• improper scalp care: use of shampoos and other skin care products that are inappropriate for your skin type;
• infrequent or, conversely, too frequent hair hygiene contributes to dandruff;
• aggressive chemical composition of tap water used for washing hair;
• exposure to dry air: use of a hair dryer, ironing, hair curling iron, central heating in the cold season;
• lack of vitamins and minerals in the body: A, Z, group B, zinc, magnesium, healthy vegetable fats;
• allergic reaction to fibers contained in hats;
• decreased immunity;
• skin diseases: , ;
• bad habits: smoking, alcohol.

It has been noted that the risk of dandruff increases significantly during the cold season - the reason for this phenomenon lies in the small amount of ultraviolet radiation, which has the ability to neutralize the fungus, and in the presence of a large amount of synthetics in hats.

CLASSIFICATION

There are three types of dandruff:

• Dry dandruff is characterized by a large number of dry flakes on the surface of the epidermis of the scalp, which appear as a result of a lack of sebum production. With dry dandruff, the scales easily separate from the hair, fall off and remain on clothes. Their number varies depending on the degree of the disease - in the initial stages they are noticeable only upon closer examination, and in complex cases they cover the entire head of the patient. This type of dandruff is often accompanied by dryness, brittleness and split ends.
• Oily liquid dandruff occurs due to increased sebum production, which, in turn, is a consequence of hormonal imbalance in the body. The pathology is easy to recognize by the appearance of the skin - it becomes shiny and covered with enlarged pores. The hair takes on an unkempt, unkempt appearance: it seems to be greased with lard and lies on the head in sparse, thin strands, studded with yellowish scales. The processes occurring in the epidermis when oily seborrhea occurs often lead to the loss of bactericidal properties, resulting in the formation of painful and poorly healing ulcers on the head. Oily liquid dandruff often leads to baldness.
• Oily, thick dandruff, just like liquid dandruff, occurs due to excessive activity of the sebaceous glands, but is accompanied by blockage of their ducts. The disease is often complicated by the appearance of acne and follicles on the scalp, the hair becomes stiff, its shafts thicken, and the number increases.

SYMPTOMS

The symptoms of the disease depend on its type and are manifested by the following signs:

• scales covering the scalp - depending on the type of dandruff, they can easily separate or adhere firmly to the surface of the epidermis and base of the hair;
• imbalance of sebum production - the skin becomes too dry or, conversely, too oily;
• unkempt appearance;
• itching and other unpleasant sensations;
• increased hair loss, baldness.

The listed symptoms may also apply to other dermatological diseases of the scalp (seborrhea, lichen), therefore, before starting treatment, it is necessary to conduct a qualified diagnosis with the help of a specialist.

DIAGNOSTICS

When diagnosing dandruff, the main emphasis is on the symptomatic manifestations of the disease. But since dandruff is only an external manifestation of internal problems of the body, the doctor’s task is to examine the patient in order to identify them.

Methods for identifying diseases:

• general and biochemical blood test;
• general urine and stool tests;
• hormone tests;
• Ultrasound of the thyroid gland;
• Ultrasound of the gastrointestinal tract.

If necessary, other diagnostic methods are also used to identify the causes of dandruff, and other specialists are also involved - a gastroenterologist, an immunologist, an infectious disease specialist.

TREATMENT

Treatment of dandruff is divided into two directions - the first is to neutralize the causes that caused it, and the second is to get rid of external symptoms. If the first stage completely depends on the results of the examination and the diagnosis made by the doctor, then for the second, as a rule, pharmacy antifungal shampoos, lotions, serums, balms and masks are used. Also have a beneficial effect on the condition of the scalp natural shampoos based on tar, St. John's wort, sulfur, boron, fermented milk products, salicylic acid, ichthyol.

Other therapies:

• hormonal and vitamin therapy (taking zinc, sulfur, B vitamins);
• ultraviolet treatment;
• drugs that normalize intestinal function;
• immunity-boosting medications.

To stimulate the production of keratin (a protein that plays a direct role in the formation of hair structure), vasoconstrictors are prescribed locally.

COMPLICATIONS

Long-term lack of treatment for dandruff is fraught with such negative consequences as weakening of hair follicles, thinning and thinning of hair, its fragility, and as a result - loss of attractiveness. appearance. The disease can also provoke various inflammatory processes in the skin, which are caused by scratching constantly itchy skin and introducing infection into it.

PREVENTION

Preventing dandruff comes down to following general rules healthy image life, as well as compliance with hygiene standards.

Measures to reduce the risk of dandruff:

• Careful, but at the same time moderate hygiene: the ideal frequency of hair washing is 2-3 times a week. Products for the care of the scalp and hair must be carefully selected taking into account individual characteristics, have the most natural composition, and if a person has a tendency to form dandruff, then the periodic use of special medicinal products is advisable as a preventive measure.
• A healthy balanced diet, which must include legumes, nuts, dairy products, large quantities fresh, boiled and stewed fruits and vegetables. You should exclude from the menu or minimize the consumption of all foods that can negatively affect the digestion process or cause diarrhea (baked goods made from white flour, carbonated drinks, fast food, chips, fried foods, etc.).
• Monitor the state of the nervous system: do not disrupt your work and rest schedule, try to rest more, fill your life with positive impressions.

Preventive measures also include maintaining a healthy immune system (sports appropriate for age and physical fitness, swimming, staying in the fresh air for at least two hours on weekdays and at least four on weekends), and giving up bad habits.

PROGNOSIS FOR RECOVERY

Treatment for the initial stages of dandruff usually takes 4 to 6 weeks. In more advanced cases, especially those aggravated by endocrine disorders, this period extends to the time necessary to completely cure the underlying disease. If the disease is chronic, then dandruff treatment must be carried out several times a year.

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