Dandruff

Overview

People are very much familiar with the term dandruff. Most of them are suffering from the same. It is a common chronic scalp condition. It causes itching and flaking of the skin on the scalp. It is not contagious and cannot be serious except certain rare cases. It is embarrassing and can be controlled effectively.

But, it can be controlled. Mild and moderate cases can be controlled with daily shampooing and home care. Severe cases may require medicated shampoos and more care.

Causes

One may develop dandruff due to different reasons. It may include:

• Dry skin
• Psoriasis
• Eczema
• Malassezia
• Sensitivity to hair care products
• Irritated, oily skin
• Not shampooing enough

Signs & symptoms

Dandruff symptoms are easy to find. White, oily looking flakes of dead skin will dot the person's hair and shoulders. He may have itchy and scaling scalp. Dandruff may affect people of all ages. Most of the cases can be controlled by daily home care. If you feel it as difficult to control them, you can go for medical care.

Treatments

Dandruff treatments may take time to control them. Mild and moderate cases can be easily controlled with daily cleansing with a gentle shampoo. It will reduce the oiliness. Some people may require OTC dandruff shampoos, when their regular shampoos fail to control the dandruff. There are many types of dandruff shampoos according to the medication they contain.