Have you ever found yourself brushing your hair, only to see a flurry of white flakes falling down onto your shoulders and clothes? You’ll agree with me that it can be very embarrassing. Scalp issues like dandruff, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis have become a nightmare to many Naturalists. I once hosted an online hair care session with about 250 women, and nearly 40% of the questions revolved around these pesky scalp conditions.
Beyond the social discomfort of these scalp issues, dandruff, psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis also affects hair health in significant ways. Understanding these conditions, their causes, and how to manage and treat them is essential for maintaining a healthy scalp, beautiful hair, and getting back your confidence. This article provides an in-depth look at these issues and offers practical tips for managing them effectively.
Dandruff
One of the most embarrassing scalp conditions a lot of individuals face is dandruff. It is a common scalp condition characterized by flaking and itching. The flakes are often white or yellow and can be noticeable on the scalp, hair, and clothing. Dandruff is not contagious and is generally considered a mild condition, but it can be a persistent nuisance.
Dandruff vs. Dry scalp
Many people confuse dandruff with a dry scalp, as both conditions can cause itching and flaking. However, they stem from different issues. Dandruff is linked to seborrheic dermatitis, whereas a dry scalp results from the skin losing too much moisture. This can happen due to dehydration or hair products that strip the scalp of its natural oils. If you live in a cold and dry climate, you may also be more susceptible to having a dry scalp.
Treating a dry scalp usually involves switching to a gentle, unmedicated shampoo with fewer additives that may remove moisture from the scalp.
What causes Dandruff?
- Malassezia Yeast: The main cause of dandruff is the malassezia yeast. This yeast lives on the scalps of most adults. Sometimes it grows out of control, feeding on the oils secreted by hair follicles.
- Seborrheic Dermatitis: A common and more severe form of dandruff involving red, greasy skin covered with flaky white or yellow scales.
- Dry Skin: Flakes from dry skin are generally smaller and less oily than those from other types of dandruff.
- Sensitivity to Hair Products (Contact Dermatitis): Certain hair care products can cause red, itchy, and scaly scalp.
- Other Skin Conditions: Conditions like psoriasis and eczema can also lead to dandruff.
Treatment for Dandruff
Medicated Shampoos
The use of medicated and anti-fungal shampoos containing ingredients like ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, or zinc pyrithione can reduce yeast growth on the scalp. Also, salicylic acid shampoos and coal tar shampoos are a good option. They help in the removal of scales, reduce flakiness, and relieve itching.
Hair Products
Limit the use of hair styling products, especially heavy products such as gels and butters which can build up on the scalp and contribute to dandruff.
Tea Tree Oil
Some studies suggest that shampoos containing tea tree oil may help reduce dandruff. Tea tree oil has antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
Moisturize the Scalp
Use a conditioner or oil to keep your scalp hydrated if dryness is a contributing factor to your dandruff.
Stress Management
Since stress can trigger dandruff, managing stress through relaxation techniques, exercise, and adequate sleep can be beneficial.
Consult a Dermatologist
If dandruff persists despite these measures, consult a dermatologist. They can prescribe stronger treatments or identify underlying skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes the rapid buildup of skin cells, leading to scaling on the skin’s surface. On the scalp, it appears as red, raised patches covered with silvery scales. This condition affects both children and adults.
What causes Psoriasis?
- Immune System: An overactive immune system causes skin cells to grow too quickly.
- Genetics: A family history of seborrheic dermatitis increases the likelihood of developing the condition.
- Triggers: Common triggers include extreme stress, infections, skin injuries, and certain medications.
Treatment for Psoriasis
Medicated shampoos
Shampoos, lotions, or gels that contain coal tar are recommended for scalp psoriasis because they can help relieve itching and flaking. Scale softeners with salicylic acid may also help loosen psoriasis plaques on your scalp.
It’s important to use fragrance- and alcohol-free shampoos, as these may dry your scalp and worsen symptoms.
Topical medications
Some topical medications available as a cream, foam, or ointment include; calcipotriene, betamethasone-calcipotriene, which is a combination of a corticosteroid and vitamin D.
Oral medications
Some oral medications may help relieve the symptoms of scalp psoriasis by reducing inflammation and cell growth. These may include; acitretin (Soriatane) methotrexate, cyclosporine.
It’s important to work with a healthcare professional, as some medications may have possible side effects and interact negatively with other drugs.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic form of eczema that affects areas of the body where sebaceous (oil) glands are most prominent, including the scalp. It causes red, inflamed skin covered with greasy-looking white or yellowish scales. It occurs most often in infants younger than three months old and in adults ages 30 to 60.
What causes Seborrheic Dermatitis?
- Yeast (Malassezia): This yeast that lives on the skin’s surface can trigger an inflammatory response.
- Genetics: A family history of seborrheic dermatitis increases the likelihood of developing the condition.
- Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels or an increased level of androgens (a hormone) can exacerbate symptoms. Also, an increased level of skin lipids can worsen the situation.
- Environmental Factors: Stress, cold weather, and dry air can worsen the condition.
Treatment for Seborrheic Dermatitis
Over-the-Counter Treatments
Make use of anti-fungal shampoos which contain ingredients like ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, or zinc pyrithione, which help reduce the yeast that can contribute to seborrheic dermatitis. Also incorporate medicated shampoos and non-irritating moisturizers to hello manage dryness and reduce scaling.
Topical Antifungals
Stronger antifungal creams or gels can be used for more severe cases. But make sure to consult with your doctor before use.
Calcineurin Inhibitors
Such as tacrolimus or pimecrolimus, these medications can reduce inflammation and are often used for sensitive areas like the face.
Lifestyle and Home Remedies
Regular hair washing, stress management, avoiding triggers such as harsh soaps, detergents, or skin products, and proper diet can help control this condition.
Corticosteroids
Creams and shampoos containing corticosteroids or hydrocortisone can help reduce severe inflammation. These are only suitable for short-term use, as they can cause side effects.
Coal tar
Coal tar cream can help slow the process of skin cells dying and falling off. Apply it to scaling areas, leave for several hours, and shampoo later to remove it.
Medicated shampoos
Use a product containing ketoconazole, ciclopirox, selenium sulfide, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, and salicylic acid, twice a week for a month or longer. If necessary, you can use them indefinitely.
Note that for infants, only a mild shampoo should be used.
Natural Remedies You Can Try
Tea Tree Oil
Known for its anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties, tea tree oil can be added to shampoos to help manage dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.
Aloe Vera
Aoe vera gel can soothe inflamed skin and reduce itching associated with scalp conditions. Rub aloe vera into your scalp before you wash your hair.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Diluted apple cider vinegar can help balance the scalp’s pH and reduce yeast overgrowth. Mix 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar with 1/4 cup water. Apply to your already shampooed hair for 15 minutes to 1 hour, then rinse. Do this twice a week.
Coconut Oil
This can moisturize the scalp and reduce flakiness. It also has mild anti-fungal properties. To use, rub 3 to 5 teaspoons of coconut oil into your scalp and leave for 1 hour. Then, shampoo your hair and wash it out.
Lemon juice
Rub 2 teaspoons of lemon juice into your scalp and rinse. Then rub one more teaspoon mixed with 1 cup of water. Do this every day.
Baking Soda
A natural exfoliant, baking soda can help remove excess flakes and reduce scalp irritation. Gently rub baking soda into your scalp in the shower and rinse after a few minute.
Conclusion
Addressing common scalp issues like dandruff, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis is essential for maintaining overall scalp and hair health. Utilizing a combination of medicated treatments, natural remedies, and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms and promote a healthy scalp environment. Prioritizing scalp health not only supports healthy hair growth but also enhances personal confidence. Now, you can brush and flaunt your hair in public, without any worries.
