Tired of dandruff & itchy scalps? Here’s what’s causing it & how to deal with it

Dandruff is a condition of the scalp that causes flakes of skin to appear. It is often accompanied by itching. Dandruff isn’t contagious or serious but it can be embarrassing and difficult to treat. However, it is a controllable condition. Proper nourishment and care can help to prevent dandruff. It is not related to hygiene.

It is easy to spot dandruff. They are white, oily-looking flakes of dead skin that dot your hair and shoulders. Serious cases of dandruff may require medications in consultation with a doctor.

6 COMMON REASONS BEHIND DANDRUFF AND ITCHY SCALPS

One of the most common reasons for dandruff is dryness of scalp. The skin of the scalp comes out due to cold-dry winter. The chilly air absorbs the moisture from the scalp and makes it dry. Dandruff that stems from dry skin tends to be smaller and non-oily. You’ll probably have dry skin on other parts of the body too.

Itchy scalp

Shampooing your hair too often or rarely are big issues. Shampooing your hair very often can strip your hair off necessary oils. This makes the scalp dry. On the other hand, washing your hair rarely leads to dirt, build-up of sebum and oils which causes dandruff. Opt for shampoos with tea tree oil as it improves the severity of dandruff. Make sure you’re rinsing off the shampoo properly. Leftover shampoo could lead to dandruff.

Shampooing

Stress can worsen any skin condition. Stress impairs your immune system and can be one of the causes of dandruff, says Lotika Singh, a New York bases dermatologist. Indulge in relaxation techniques. Try yoga or meditation. The more you stress, the more it shows on your skin.

Not eating properly is also one of the main causes of dandruff. Diets high in saturated fats and trans-fats cause your sebaceous glands to produce more oil which makes dandruff even worse. Lack of vitamin B and zinc can cause dandruff. Vitamin B contains biotin, a nutrient that forms the basis of hair cells. Eat foods like rice, eggs, oatmeal, banana, nuts, olives, avocados etc.

Diet

The products you use for your hair and skin must be proper. Choosing the right product as per your type is very crucial. Dandruff can be caused as a reaction to these products. The side-effects of various hair products can have a negative impact on your scalp. Applying a shampoo or conditioner which is too harsh may irritate your skin. So, choose the product that suits you the best.

Hair sprays, styling gels and mousses are another major cause of dandruff. Using them in excess is not good for your hair. These styling products can build-up on your hair and scalp causing oiliness. So, cut back on these products.

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