Dandruff are superficial flakes of skin present on the scalp hair and eyebrows. Sometimes they can be extensive, visible on the face and on the cloathings – jackets, shirts, sweaters etc. These flakes are dead skin cells of the scalp. The main causes are –
· Fungal infection of the scalp due to yeasts of Malassezia species.
· Seborrhoeic dermatitis, in which case the scales are yellowish and greasy.
· Dry scalp caused by skin diseases where there is desquamation of the scalp skin and /or contact dermatitis from excessive use of hair products.
Although harmless, the visible scales are embarrassing.
Prevention and treatment
· Use an antifungal shampoo containing ketoconazole, twice weekly for 6 weeks. Leave the shampoo for 5 minutes on the scalp before rinsing.
· Use less hair products and a small quantity of hair oil if only necessary.
A dermatological consultation may be necessary, if the problem persists.
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