Dandruff

WHAT IS DANDRUFF?

A skin condition characterized by dry or greasy, white scales. Dandruff is a form of seborrheic dermatitis and is not contagious.

It normally affects scalp, eyebrows, forehead, face, and folds around the nose, behind ears, external ear canal or skin of the trunk, especially over the upper back.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

Flaking, white scales over reddish patches on the skin. Scales adhere to hair shafts. There may be itching, but they are usually painless unless complicated by infection.

CAUSES

Just as we have sweat glands, we also have sebaceous glands that secrete sebum. Sebum along with sweat and environmental material constitute the oil on the surface of skin. In some individuals there is excess secretion of sebum, which dries and irritates the skin. Hence care of dandruff is virtually life long.

RISK INCREASES WITH

  • Hot, humid weather or cold dry weather.
  • Infrequent shampoos.
  • Oily skin.
  • Other skin disorders, such as acne rosacea, acne or psoriasis

HOW TO PREVENT

Cannot be prevented. To minimize severity or frequency of flare-ups:

  • Shampoo frequently.

DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES

  • Typical flakes and other symptoms.
  • Examination by a doctor.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

  • Social discomfort.
  • Secondary bacterial infection in affected areas.

PROBABLE OUTCOME

This is a chronic condition, but it is often characterized by long periods of inactivity. During active phases, symptoms can be controlled with treatment.

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

Shampoo vigorously and as often as once a day. The shampoo you use is not as important as the way you scrub your scalp. Loosen scales with your fingernails while shampooing, and scrub at least 5 minutes.

MEDICATION

  • For minor dandruff, you may use non-prescription dandruff shampoos and lubricating skin lotion.
  • For severe problems, your doctor may prescribe:
    • Shampoos that contain coal tar or scalp creams that contain cortisone. To apply medication to the scalp, part the hair a few strands at a time, and rub the ointment or lotion vigorously into the scalp.

ACTIVITY

No restrictions. Outdoor activities in summer may help.

DIET

No special diet.

CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR, IF

  • You have symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis that don't respond to self-care.
  • Patches of seborrheic dermatitis ooze, form crusts or drain pus.