Dandruff

Dandruff (also known as pityriasis versicolor) is a very common scalp problem, characterized by flaking skin that appears as white flakes and is often accompanied by itching.

The main cause of dandruff is most often an overgrowth of the yeast fungus Malassezia globosa, which is naturally present on the scalp.

This fungus feeds on the oil (sebum) on the scalp, creating irritating byproducts to which the scalp responds by accelerating the renewal of skin cells and peeling.

Types of dandruff

Dandruff is divided into two main types:

Dry dandruff:

○ The scales are small, dry and white; they fall off the scalp easily (they are visible on the shoulders).

○ The scalp is often dry and itchy.

○ It occurs due to dryness of the skin, often in winter.

Oily dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis):

○ The scales are yellowish, larger and oily, and stick to the scalp and hair.

○ The scalp is oily, red and sometimes inflamed.

○ It is associated with the strong activity of the sebaceous glands.

Factors that promote the formation of dandruff

• Excessive sebum secretion (oily scalp).

• Stress and emotional stress, which can disrupt hormonal balance and weaken the immune system.

• Hormonal changes (often occur in adolescence).

• Improper hair care: Frequent washing with aggressive shampoos that dry out the scalp, or not washing often enough, which allows oil to accumulate.

• Climatic conditions: The condition often worsens in autumn and winter due to dry air and temperature fluctuations.

• Nutrition: Unbalanced diet and lack of certain vitamins (e.g. B-complex vitamins and zinc).

How to get rid of dandruff?

Anti-dandruff shampoos (Medicated ingredients)

The most effective shampoos are those that contain one or more of the following active ingredients:

• Zinc pyrithione: Antifungal and antibacterial agent that reduces the growth of the Malassezia fungus.

• Ketoconazole: A powerful antifungal agent, also effective in stubborn seborrheic dermatitis.

• Salicylic acid: Helps dissolve and exfoliate dead skin cells (scales).

• Selenium sulfide: Slows down the renewal of cells on the scalp and has an antifungal effect.

• Fluocinolone: ​​Corticosteroids for the treatment of severe inflammatory conditions (prescription only).

Usage advice: Use the medicated shampoo 2-3 times a week, massaging it into the scalp and leaving it on for 5-10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Once the condition improves, use the shampoo only for maintenance (e.g. once a week).

General scalp care and advice

• Don’t scratch! Scratching your scalp makes inflammation worse and can damage your skin.

• Avoid hot water: Rinse your hair and scalp with lukewarm water, as hot water dries out your scalp even more.

• Limit styling products: Avoid products (spray, wax, gel) from coming into contact with your scalp, as this can make the condition worse.

• Gentle massage: Regular, gentle massaging of your scalp while washing stimulates blood circulation.

• Healthy lifestyle: Stress reduction, a balanced diet (rich in B vitamins and zinc), and exercise outdoors.

Natural remedies (traditional advice)

Some natural remedies are traditionally used to soothe and care for your scalp:

• Apple cider vinegar: The acidity changes the pH of the scalp and inhibits the growth of fungi. Use it diluted with water as a rinse after washing your hair.

• Tea tree oil: It has strong antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Add a few drops to your regular shampoo.

• Coconut oil: Moisturizes dry scalp and has antifungal properties. Massage it into your scalp and leave it on (overnight if possible), then rinse.

When should you see a doctor or dermatologist?

If dandruff doesn’t go away within a few weeks despite using shampoos and home remedies, or if it’s accompanied by:

• Severe redness, inflammation, or even discharge from your scalp.

• Intense, unbearable itching.

• Hair loss.

In this case, it could be a more serious form of seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, or another skin condition that requires medical attention and possibly prescription treatment.