Dandruff Hair

* General Information:
I have dandruff…

What is dandruff?
Dandruff is the most common condition affecting the scalp. Skin is constantly renewing itself and dead cells from the scalp fall off as new cells form beneath them.
Everyone loses skin cells in this way, but with dandruff the whole process is faster, so a greater number of cells are shed. The cells are also shed in clumps that are big enough to be seen by the eye as dandruff flakes, particularly when they land on dark clothing. The scalp can also be itchy. The medical name for this condition is pityriasis capitis.

Many people think that flaking occurs because their scalp is too dry, and stop using shampoo because they believe it makes the condition worse. This is not true. The flaking occurs due to the increased turnover of skin cells.

Severe dandruff.
Severe cases of dandruff are caused by a disease called seborrhoeic eczema or seborrhoeic dermatitis.
Seborrhoeic dermatitis causes greasy, bran-like scale. The seborrhoeic area - the scalp, the skin around the nose, the lines on the cheeks, the eyebrows, the ears and the torso - may also be red and itchy.
Seborrhoeic dermatitis becomes worse during the winter and tends to improve during the summer when sunlight relieves the symptoms. It can vary from mild cases, which are only a problem in winter, to more severe cases where flaking occurs in places other than just the scalp.

Can dandruff be prevented?
It can be difficult to prevent dandruff completely, but it can be controlled. The condition may also improve as you age.

How is dandruff treated?
Anti-dandruff shampoos containing the antimicrobials selenium sulphide or zinc pyrithione are helpful for mild dandruff. These are active against the fungus Pityrosporum ovale and are widely available.
Antifungal shampoo containing ketoconazole provides a mild, yet effective treatment for dandruff, particularly more persistant or severe dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis. It is also active against Pityrosporum ovale.

* Products for Dandruff: ASP - Kitoko Kitoko Dandruff Control Balm & Shampoo - The anti-bacterial and anti-fungal action formula also prevents further irritation & inflammation to the scalp whilst leaving the hair tangle-free, shiny and manageable. Colour safe formula. L´anza Daily Elements Remedy Shampoo - emulsifies excess sebum and creates an antiseptic atmosphere on the scalp, helping to ease the symptoms of dandruff, psoriasis, eczema, seborrhea and cradle cap. Wella Lifetex Balance Clean Anti-Dandruff Shampoo - gently removes dandruff and when used regularly, reliably protects against the formation of new dandruff. Joico Daily Care Treatment Shampoo - (formerly Biojoba Shampoo) Specifically designed to help control scalp challenges and disorders, this shampoo contains UV protectants to condition and protect against daily environmental stress.

Products for Dandruff: Matrix Biolage Scalptherapie Anti-Dandruff Shampoo - Helps to rebalance the scalp environment leaving it fresh and healthy. Indola Specialists Anti Dandruff Shampoo - a frequent use shampoo that gently removes dandruff with a lasting effect. It contains octopirox for dandruff protection and to sooth irritated scalps. American Crew Classic Anti Dandruff Shampoo - Effectively promotes healthy looking hair and scalp. The active ingredient, Zinc Pyrithione, helps prevent the itching and flaking associated with dandruff.

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