Dandruff:Causes,Symptoms and Treatments

Dandruff is a non-contagious, but most annoying condition. This disorder causes discomfort and embarrassment to the sufferer. Itching and flaking of the scalp are the most common external symptoms of dandruff. Fortunately, control and treatment of this disorder is easy.

Causes

Dandruff is caused by a fat eating fungus called malassezia living on the human scalp. It can appear on the scalps of every person irrespective of the condition of the health of that person. Normally it does not cause any damage. But, when it grows out of control malassezia feeds on the oil of the scalp. That causes a rapid increase in dead skin cells of the scalp. These dead cells combine with dirt and oil and take the form of flaky white scales.

Symptoms

It is easy to detect dandruff. The most visible symptom is the flaky white scales themselves. Itching is another symptom and the sufferer feels like scratching the scalp always. But be aware of the fact that psoriasis, dry skin, seborrheic dermatitis and contact dermatitis have the same symptoms. It is best to consult your dermatologist before going for any treatment. This is to determine your exact skin condition before having treatment.

Treatment

Dandruff is curable and the treatment is simple. But a continued treatment is required to control dandruff. The use of shampoos which are available over-the-counter is the easiest way of treatment. Buy one antidandruff shampoo and try it. If it does not work for you, use another one. Try this method until you succeed. Four common types of shampoos for treatment of dandruff are listed below:

-- Zinc pyrithione shampoos like American Crew Anti Dandruff Shampoo and Head & Shoulders contain the antifungal and anti bacterial chemical, zinc pyrithione, which is effective in fighting malassezia fungus.

-- Selenium sulphide shampoos like Selsun Blue prevent cell turnover are also known to control the growth of malassezia. These have some side effects. These shampoos decolorize grey and blonde hair. They also change the color of chemically treated hair. To avoid these side effects follow the instructions of the manufacturers and rinse the hair thoroughly.

-- Ketoconazole shampoos like Nizoral also contain antifungal agents.

-- Tar based shampoos containing coal tar slow down the cell turnover and formation of the flaky scales. One common brand of this variety is Neutrogena T/Gel.

Until the dandruff is brought completely under control one of the above shampoos most suitable for you must be used continuously every day. Once the condition is brought under control the shampoo must be used only two or three times a week. It must be alternated with a good moisturizing shampoo. If the shampoos fail, see your dermatologist. Even after controlling dandruff you have to control your diet, stress and other cosmetics you use.

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