What causes dandruff and how can i prevent it?

Dandruff is a common scalp condition that is treatable and can be managed by following a few simple steps.

Dandruff is a condition of the scalp where you have excess flaking of the skin. Normally there are not symptoms for dandruff except maybe an itchy scalp.Usually the only way you can tell that you are suffering from dandruff is by seeing the flakes in your hair or on your clothing. There are several myths about dandruff, in order to clear up any misunderstandings you need to know the facts.Dandruff is not a serious condition, it does not cause balding and it is not contagious.It cannot be cured like a sickness but it can be managed and controlled.It can be caused by overactive oil glands on the scalp causing crusty flakes of dead skin (oily dandruff) or oil glands can become plugged causing dry flakes and dry dull hair (dry dandruff).Both kinds of dandruff can be embarrassing and bothersome.For most people having a white, flaky mess on their shoulders or clothing is not acceptable.

Dandruff can be caused by several factors, but the exact cause or source of dandruff is unknown.Besides oil gland problems other factors that may contribute to dandruff problems are:Poor diet, poor hygiene, genetics, hormonal imbalance and infections.In frequent shampooing, inadequate rinsing, improper use of hair coloring products, dry environment and tight-fitting hats can also contribute to dandruff problems.

No matter which type of dandruff you are suffering from you can successfully treat your problem.Sometimes keeping dandruff under control is as simple as washing your hair daily and thoroughly massaging the scalp to remove dead skin cells.Other kinds of treatment include medicated dandruff shampoos that contain coal tar or salicylic acid. Other suggestions are to use shampoos containing sulfur, selenium sulfide, or pyrithione zinc.Coal tar helps to slow the production of skin cells and the salicylic acid helps to remove the skin cells.Not all treatments will work for everyone; sometimes you will have to try more than one thing to find a product that works for you.

You can try supplements to aid in natural healing and prevention of dandruff.Some suggested supplements are zinc lozenges, vitamin B6, vitamin B complex, vitamin E, kelp tablets, salmon oil, and primrose oil.Other suggestions include beta-carotene, vitamin A and Lecithin, which is said to add strength to the hair follicles.

A common type of fungus associated with dandruff is called P. Ovale.This fungus doesn't cause dandruff but its commonly present when someone if suffering from dandruff. If the over-the-counter or natural products do not work and if your dandruff worsens you might want to consider consulting a physician.When the flaking or peeling skin is isolated to one area, the scalp is infected or bleeding then you may have a skin problem instead of just dandruff.There are prescription treatments available for severe dandruff troubles involving fungus, skin conditions and other infections.

When you find a treatment that works you need to follow the directions carefully and be consistent with the treatment until you have solved your dandruff problem.Keeping your dandruff under control is half the battle.

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