Feb
11
Scaly Scalp Conditions
Filed Under Eczema
What is dandruff?
Dandruff is a common scalp condition and whilst it may seem like a minor complaint, it can often make sufferers feel embarrassed and lead to loss of confidence.
It is the build up of dead cells on the scalp and it is estimated that one in four people in the UK will suffer at some time in theeir lives. It affects both men and women and is most common in people in their 30’s and 40’s.
The skin cells are shed from the scalp at a quicker rate than normal and then clump together to form visible white flakes. It is also linked to the presence of higher levels of a fungal yeast called Malassezia furfur on the scalp. The presence of this yeast accelerates the rate of skin shedding and causes irritation and inflammation.
Seborrhoeic dermatitis
This is a more severe condition that affects both the scalp and other parts of the body such as the nose, ears, eyebrows, face and forehead. It is thought that the condition may be due to a reaction to the fungus Malassezia furfur.
The symptoms are red and inflamed skin, white flakes, patches of red scaly and greasy skin and occasionally yellow brown crusts on top of these patches. It is quite common for newborn babies to the condition where it is referrred to as ‘cradle cap’.
It is important to try and relieve the itching associated with the underlying condition. There are several shampoos available containing one or more of the following ingredients.
- Ciclopirox olamine and ketoconazole are topical antifungal agents. They also have anti-inflammatory properties to sooth a sore and itchy scalp.
- Salacylic acid is often added to help remove the dead skin cells from the scalp.
- Selenium sulphide reduces the output of natural oils on the scalp
- Coal tar clears the scales and relieves the itching.
The aim of any treatment is to slow down the shedding and kill the fungus causing the condition.
Scalp psoriasis
This is a long term hereditary scalp condition most often appearing between the ages of 10 and 30. Skin cells are produced at up to six times the normal rate on the scalp (and other areas such as the elbows and knees).
Understanding What Causes Dandruff
Dandruff is such a common condition for many around the world. Most individuals experience it as a result of having hair scalp that is itchy.
Beauty Tips: Remove Dandruff with the this simple tip
Remove Dandruff with the this simple tip.
Dandruff symptoms are caused by quite a few factors – excessive oil production by means of sebaceous glands, scalp as well as skin allergies due to paraben preservatives or ruthless surfactants, product build-up, or inflammation.
Dandruff has been aggravating humans for many centuries and at different times people were coming up with different ideas to improve the conditions of their scalp.
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