Dandruff – Types, Symptoms, Causes and Cures

Dandruff – Types, Symptoms, Causes and Cures

Dandruff is the condition where dead skin cells flake from the scalp. And this problem goes severe in winters coz of the dryness. It is said around 50% of the people have suffered from dandruff at some point in their lives.It is normal for dead skin cells to shed from the scalp but it causes dandruff when it starts shedding in thick layers.It may also be due to imbalance of our body function where our metabolism goes haywire.And that is also the reason why most people suffer from dandruff in their puberty or early 20s. It can be chronic i.e long term or due to some short term changes. It is more common in men and people with oily skin. And it may also cause acne on the face and neck especially the greasy dandruff.

There are two types of dandruff i.e dry and greasy.

1. Dry dandruff also known as Pityriasis-capitis is the condition of normal dry flakes shedding from the scalp. This occurs more in cold weather. It can be due to health, diet, stress, environment,etc

2. Greasy dandruff also known as Seborrhea Dermatitis is the condition where scalp is very greasy and the dandruff is thick,oily or scaly. This condition, if severe also needs medical attention and a dermatalogist should be consulted. In this condition scalp itches leading to redness of the scalp which may even cause scalp infection.

Symptoms :

  • Dry silvery white flakes           
  • Itching
  • Redness of the scalp
  • Inflammation
  • Hair Loss

Causes :

  • Improper Diet
  • Stress
  • Hard shampoos
  • Infrequent washing
  • Horomonal change
  • Excessive cold weather

Some natural remedies for curing :

  • The best and the most effective method for curing dandruff would be fenugreek (methi) seeds. Soak a handful of methi seeds in water overnight and grind them the next morning. Mix it with curd to get a liquid consistency and apply it on the scalp.Leave on for 30-45 mins and wash off normally. (I do this sometimes and guys THIS WORKS)
  • Hot Oil Therapy i .e massage the scalp with warm oil and fold it in a damp towel and leave on for 5-10 mins for the moisture to sink in. You can add 2 drops pf rosemary oil too.
  • Massage your scalp while oiling n shampooing with your fingers. This would increase the blood circulation on your scalp. You can also use an electronic massager like the one Parachute has. 
  • Applying a mix of lemon juice and vinegar (in 1:2 ratio) on oiled hair before a wash.
  • Avoid harsh shampoos.
  • One can use 2-3 drops of tea tree oil for the greasy dandruff.
  • Massaging scalp with baking soda before a wash.
  • Shampoos with salicylic acid also helps greasy dandruff. But do not use any anti dandruff shampoos more than once a week.
  • Apply a mixture of egg yolk and curd and leave on for 30 mins and rinse off.
  • Vitamin D i.e a bit of sun exposure also helps. 

 Phew..I felt like I was in the exam hall again :p
 Hope that helped.

Any other remedies you would like to suggest ?