Dandruff is the result of a common affliction that occurs among people of all ethnicities and does not discriminate between men and women. This affliction can occur on any part of the body that hair grows. This includes the eyebrows and chest. The location of the body that dandruff is most often found is the scalp.
Many people have asked, “What causes dandruff?” throughout the ages. This affliction is an ailment that has no specifically cited primary cause. It can be a chronic condition or appear infrequently among a wide variety of people. It afflicts people of all ages from the very young to the elderly. For instance, infants with severe dandruff are cited as having “cradle cap.” It is generally noted as an accumulation of dead skin in an area that may also be accompanied by inflammation on small sections of the scalp. The reasons for this accumulation will vary due to the variety of possible dandruff causes. The environment and biochemical factors are the most common reasons cited as they may lead to Increased oil production in the skin. Overgrowth of skin yeasts may also cause an outbreak of dandruff. Fungal or bacterial growths are not known causes of this issue, but may exacerbate it if they cause increased skin secretions. Dandruff is not contagious.
Dandruff Treatment
Proper dandruff treatment includes aggressive actions with shampoos, creams, washes, and lotions. Antifungal or antibacterial versions of these items will often work the best. These items resolve exacerbating issues due to fungal or bacterial infections. Mild dandruff is very common even in individuals with a healthy immune system. This is especially true if they do not maintain healthy hair hygiene practices or do not shampoo often enough. The usage of a dandruff shampoo can greatly alleviate normal occurrences of this issue. However, severe cases of this affliction may occur in people who have chronic illnesses such as HIV/AIDS or Parkinson’s disease. When the immune system is compromised dandruff may occur with greater frequency.
The most common triggers for dandruff are excessive sweating, increased oil production, an oily or dirty scalp, hot and humid weather or cold and dry weather, poor hygiene, and emotional or mental stress. It should be noted that severe dandruff may also have a link to a greater health issue such as a chronic illness. This affliction may also have minor genetic components and appears to run in families.
Dandruff Treatment
“How to get rid of dandruff or prevent it from occurring.” is a hot topic issue for many people. While general hair hygiene improvements may solve the issue it is also important to consider the root cause of the affliction. Severe cases of dandruff will require aggressive treatment with shampoos and washes. It may also be necessary to seek medical help, though it is not an emergency situation. Do not go to the emergency room for issues relating to this affliction. If the dandruff continually spreads, causes noticeable hair loss, or appears to be infected seek out a dermatologist.