Understanding Dandruff

Understanding Dandruff

A lot of people think dandruff is a product of poor hygiene. Hence, many of us feel quite embarrassed getting the “flakes” as we discreetly dust them off our shoulders. But this is a false analogy.

                                       

Like any scalp condition, dandruff is brought about by various factors.

Typically, dandruff occurs when the scalp’s biological balance is disturbed, and as a result sends the production of naturally occurring scalp fungus, Malassezia globosa, into overdrive. It burrows deep into the hair follicle, irritating the scalp and causing it to shed dead skin cells faster than normal. In some cases, it triggers seborrheic dermatitis, particularly when the scalp is oily.

Factors That Cause Dandruff

Hormone Imbalance

Hormones play a key role in our body’s oil production. Women, for instance, experience an upsurge in oil production when their estrogen level drops and progesterone levels increase.

While oil is essential to keep the scalp’s moisture balance normal, excess oil triggers growth of the yeast-like fungus Malassezia globosa, resulting to dandruff. To address oily scalps, natural treatments like Oway Purifying Hair Bath for Oily Scalps help rebalance the skin’s moisture levels while eradicating Malassezia globosa.

Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol is a well-known diuretic, which means it promotes increased production of urine. Therefore, excess alcohol consumption will trigger frequent trips to the bathroom, dehydrating the body and ultimately – the skin.

Harsh Hair Products

Hair care products, especially those containing harsh, synthetic chemicals and toxic ingredients, can rob the scalp of its natural pH and destroy the barrier that locks in moisture. This leaves the scalp vulnerable to sensitivity, irritation, and bacteria, which leads to dandruff.

Weather Extremes

Extreme weather conditions can either strip the scalp of its natural oils, or cause an overproduction of sebum. For example, winter is known for sucking the moisture out of the scalp, leaving it cracked and irritated. To repair it, treatments containing Thyme, Rosemary, and Rice Wax (like Oway Purifying Scalp Treatment Kit) are highly effective in restoring the scalp’s moisture balance, which prevents dandruff from further developing.

Nutrient Deficiency

Dandruff can be our body’s way of telling us that something is not right. Research has shown that individuals who rarely consume foods rich in vitamin B12, vitamin E, zinc, and essential fatty acids are more prone to dandruff than those who eat a balanced diet.

Vitamin B12, vitamin E, zinc, and fatty acids are essential nutrients that stimulate blood flow to the scalp and fights off free radicals that cause various scalp issues.

Stress

Many experts believe that there is a link between stress and dandruff. Because when we are stressed, we trigger production of certain hormones, which, as previously mentioned, causes overproduction of sebum on the scalp. This creates an ideal condition for the Malassezia globosa to thrive.

Treatment for Dandruff

                                     
 
Fortunately, dandruff can be controlled and the symptoms managed so that you can live without excessive trouble from the condition. Here are some simple guidelines:
 
• Use a dandruff control shampoo daily until your symptoms abate and then use it less frequently (according to your need) in order to keep the symptoms under control. Usually, once the symptoms are under control, use of the dandruff shampoo once or twice a week is sufficient.
 
• Keep the hair and scalp clean, and as dry as possible. Avoid letting perspiration and excess oils remain on the hair and scalp as these can be triggers for irritation. In the summer months, shower after periods of exercise or exertion that causes you to perspire in order to keep the hair and scalp clean.
 
• As difficult as it may be, avoid scratching the affected areas. There are a number of over-the-counter medications to help control skin itching that are effective in helping manage dandruff itch. Just keep in mind that the risk of wounding the scalp and causing infection are sufficient to merit exerting as much self-control as possible.