There are different types of dandruff, because they can develop for various reasons. Dandruff is mainly characterized by white flakes on the hair and is also accompanied by symptoms such as inflammation and itching of the scalp. Although it is a frustrating hair condition, it is treatable. Therefore, it is important to know the types of dandruff in order to start treatment. If you want to know what are the different types of dandruff and how you can treat each, read on!
Different types of dandruff
Dandruff related to dry skin
Dandruff often develops in people who usually have a dry scalp. Dry skin on the scalp can be due to extremely cold weather (such as in the winter months) or irregular hair washing.
People with curly hair may have a drier scalp than those with other hair types. The use of high-sudsing sulfate shampoos can also cause and aggravate dandruff associated with dry skin.
Symptoms: Sensation of oppression on the scalp and small dry, round, white scales on the hair.
Dandruff related to oily scalp
This condition is characterized by an oily scalp. Sometimes your body can start to produce too much sebum (the natural oil produced by the sebaceous glands). Sebum, in normal amounts, can help moisturize hair and skin and keep them from drying out. It can also help delay certain signs of aging.
However, overproduction of this sebum, which could occur due to puberty, pregnancy, stress, or irregular shampooing, can cause problems. When excess sebum mixes with dirt and dead skin cells, dandruff forms.
Symptoms: yellow spots on the scalp, large yellowish dandruff flakes on the scalp, itchy and oily hair.
fungal dandruff
Fungal dandruff is the result of an infection of the scalp caused by the fungus Malassezia globosa. This fungal infection spreads quite quickly when your scalp is excessively oily or has a pH imbalance.
It is also very contagious and can be spread when people share their combs, towels, or hats with someone who is infected. Malassezia produces oleic acid which increases skin cell turnover. This causes dandruff.
Symptoms: white or yellowish dandruff and itching.
Dandruff caused by the accumulation of products
Using too many styling products (including leave-in conditioners, gels, serums, pomades, mousses, or hairsprays) can cause them to build up on your scalp. This buildup can combine with dirt and dead skin cells to form dandruff. It could also cause hair loss.
Symptoms: Large whitish or yellowish scales on the scalp, irritation and hair loss.
Dandruff caused by seborrheic dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can develop on parts of the body with a higher concentration of sebaceous glands. This includes the scalp, neck, areas behind the ears, face, and eyebrows.
Studies show that it is usually caused by an inflammatory reaction to yeast that is naturally found on the surface of the skin. Stress and hormonal changes can trigger seborrheic dermatitis (4).
Symptoms: huge, white or yellowish dandruff flakes, scaly patches, greasiness, redness and irritation.
Dandruff caused by psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition in which the immune system begins to attack healthy skin tissues. This leads to the rapid production of new skin cells before the old dead skin flakes off. The result is the formation of thick, silvery, scaly patches on the scalp, neck, knees, and back.
Symptoms: Silver-colored scaly patches, large, thick scales on the scalp, redness, and mild itching.
Also read about the myths and truths about dandruff
Tips to prevent dandruff
Dandruff could be an absorbing part of someone’s life. One can even feel embarrassed in a company. But it does not have to be like that. Dandruff can be easily treated with the help of some products and other natural methods.
with hair products
There are several over-the-counter dandruff shampoos that you can use to treat and prevent dandruff. Be sure to choose one that contains any of the following ingredients: ketoconazole, salicylic acid, selenium sulfide, coal tar, zinc pyrithione. Some vital nutrients to include in your diet to prevent dandruff are zinc, B vitamins, and fats.
Avoid undergoing chemical hair treatments such as perms, hair colors, and relaxers.
Brush and wash your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo regularly.
Refrain from using too many hair products.
With natural methods
- Fenugreek seedsDirections: Soak 2 tablespoons of fenugreek seeds overnight and grind them into a paste. Apply this paste all over your scalp and leave it on for 30 minutes. Wash it with soap nut (reetha) and water.
- Olive oil: Massage your scalp with olive oil for 10 minutes and leave it on overnight. Wash it off with water and a mild shampoo the next morning.
- Apple cider vinegarDirections: Mix 2 cups of apple cider vinegar in 2 cups of water and pour it all over your scalp after shampooing. Massage for a few minutes before washing it off with water.
- Sodium bicarbonate: Mix 3 tablespoons of baking soda and 3 tablespoons of lemon juice in a bowl of apple cider vinegar. Apply this paste all over your scalp and leave it on for 10 minutes. Wash it off with water.
- tea tree oil– Add a few drops of tea tree oil to coconut oil and massage into scalp and hair. You can leave it on overnight before washing it off with an herbal shampoo.