Reasons for Dandruff

Dandruff is one of the most embarrassing conditions experienced by men and women in the world. It is also one of the major hair problems. Dandruff not only leads to an itchy scalp, but, also results in falling of the flakes on clothes. This condition is chronic, and the dandruff tends to reappear frequently if not treated properly.

Causes of Dandruff

There are several myths and misconceptions associated with dandruff; like washing hair too often, not washing hair every day, not using shampoo, having spicy food, etc. However, as mentioned above, there can be several underlying causes for the same. Take a look.

Uncleanliness
Not washing hair regularly leads to accumulation of dirt and dust in the hair which can trigger off dandruff. Similarly, increased oil production is also one of the causes of dandruff.

Skin Diseases
Dandruff can also be caused due to certain skin diseases like psoriasis and eczema. In these conditions, the skin tissues die sooner, giving rise to dry and flaky skin.

Nutritional Deficiency
A person's diet is also responsible for dandruff, and not having sufficient amounts of healthy foods can results in it. Consuming foods low in vitamins (A, B, C) leads to nutritional deficiency, which is also one of the major reasons for dandruff. Drinking less amounts of water, and consuming oily and salty foods have also been linked to dandruff formation.

Hair Care
Using products containing harsh chemicals, using shampoo and other hair products not suitable to your hair type can also cause dandruff. Blow drying hair frequently or exposing hair to heat frequently (though curlers or straighteners) is another possible cause.

Weather
Dandruff can also be caused due to exposure to cold and dry weather. At the same time, exposure to extremely hot climatic conditions, heat, frequent sunlight, etc. can also lead to itchy scalp and dandruff.

Hormonal Imbalance
Hormonal imbalance caused due to any reason, like the onset of puberty, abnormal functioning of glands, stress, etc., is another reason for dandruff. Stress itself can also lead to mild to severe dandruff in people.

Apart from the aforementioned, following are some more reasons that can result in dandruff in men and women:

• Malassezia
• Oily skin/excess oil production
• Allergy
• Hypersensitivity
• Lack of sleep/rest
• Head lice
• Use of unclean combs/pillows
• Sweating
• Weakened immune system
• Yeast infections

It is essential to get dandruff treated immediately to prevent it from reappearing again. Before looking for treatment, you should look out for the cause of it and try to get rid of the cause. Most of the causes mentioned above can be treated effectively. Use of anti-dandruff shampoo is the best way of treating this condition. Secondly, there are several dandruff home remedies that can be used. Using tea tree oil is considered as one of the best methods to get rid of dandruff. Similarly, massaging with oil and following proper hair care treatment is also effective.

Lastly, you should remember that following proper methods of cleanliness and hygiene, having a proper diet and avoiding experiments with hair care products, can help in prevention of dandruff to a great extent. Take care!