Dandruff in the hair – causes, treatment and prevention

Dandruff is a common hair problem that affects many men. Not only can they be annoying, but they can also affect your self-confidence. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the causes of dandruff, provide tips for treatment and prevention, and look at the differences between dry (white) and oily (yellow) dandruff.

Causes of Dandruff

Dandruff can have a variety of causes, including dry scalp, excessive sebum production, fungal infections, or even stress-related factors. A thorough analysis of the causes is the first step towards effective treatment.

Dry scales (white scales)

One of the most common causes of white dandruff is a dry scalp. When the skin on the scalp dries out, it tends to become flaky and cause itching.

Oily dandruff (yellow dandruff)

Excessive sebum production can lead to greasy dandruff. The excess sebum can irritate the scalp and promote dandruff. Fungal infections, particularly the Malassezia yeast, can also cause greasy dandruff.

Stress as a factor

Stress can not only affect the body, but also the scalp. Chronic stress can disrupt the balance of the skin and cause both dry and oily dandruff.

Treating dandruff

There are different methods to treat dandruff depending on the cause. Here are some effective approaches:

Use of special anti-dandruff shampoos: There are many anti-dandruff shampoos on the market that contain active ingredients such as zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole or salicylic acid. These help combat the causes of dandruff.

Natural Home Remedies: Some people swear by natural home remedies like tea tree oil or aloe vera to treat dandruff. These can have a calming effect and nourish the scalp.

Medical treatments: If dandruff does not go away despite home remedies and anti-dandruff shampoos, it is advisable to consult a doctor. The doctor may prescribe special medications or treatments to address the cause. It is particularly important to seek professional advice if you have yellowish dandruff, which could indicate a possible fungal infection.

Notice

If you have yellowish scales that could indicate a fungal infection, it is particularly advisable to see a dermatologist. The dermatologist can identify the exact cause and recommend targeted treatment. Early action can help prevent further problems and ensure more effective treatment.

Prevention of dandruff

After successful treatment, it is important to take measures to prevent dandruff from recurring. Here are some preventative tips:

Regular hair and scalp care: Regularly washing and caring for your hair and scalp is crucial to keeping it healthy.

Avoiding strong hair care products: Harsh chemicals in hair care products can irritate the scalp. The use of mild products is advisable.

Stress management: Stress reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga or regular exercise can help stabilize the balance of the scalp.

Conclusion

While dandruff can be annoying, with proper care and treatment it is possible to get it under control. By identifying the causes and consistently applying appropriate measures, healthy and dandruff-free hair can be achieved.