Thanks to TV commercials, by this point, we all know how embarrassing dandruff can look, especially if it flares up on your shoulder. When your scalp gets affected by dandruff, it can lead to a lot more than mere embarrassment. Do you know dandruff can also lead to hair loss? Yes, you read that right. A healthy scalp is essential for healthy hair. Not only does dandruff cause hair fall, but it can also lead to hair thinning or even balding. Dandruff is a common issue that causes the scalp to be itchy and flaky. So let us delve deeper to understand how dandruff and hair loss are connected and what you should do to keep your scalp healthy and hair strong.

What is dandruff?

Dandruff is a condition characterized by dry, white flakes that appear on the scalp. It is caused due to an imbalance in the oils and microorganisms on the scalp.

Dandruff can be caused by a variety of factors, including overactive oil glands, dry skin, and certain fungal infections.

Understanding the link between dandruff and hair loss

The primary way that dandruff causes hair fall is through excessive scratching. When the scalp is itchy, more often than not, it may prompt you to scratch it vigorously. This can damage your hair follicles and lead to thinning hair. This thinning of hair causes bald spots, eventually. Furthermore, some people experience inflammation and irritation of the scalp due to dandruff, which can also lead to hair loss.

How does dandruff cause hair loss?

Dandruff is the most common scalp disorder that affects the majority of people. The scalp becomes itchy and irritating, leading to an uncomfortable feeling and self-consciousness. It can also extend to severe cases such as balding. To prevent this, one must understand the symptoms, causes, and treatment options available for dandruff and hair loss.

Symptoms of dandruff

• Itchy scalp: One of the most common symptoms of dandruff is an itchy scalp. This can range from mild to severe and can cause immense discomfort.
• White flakes: Dandruff is characterized by a white flaky scalp. These flakes are usually oily and can be seen on clothes or furniture.
• Dry scalp: Having a dry scalp can, again, lead to scratching and flaking.

Causes of dandruff

Dandruff is caused by several factors, such as:

• Irregular shampooing: One of the main causes of dandruff can be infrequent shampooing. Without proper cleansing, the scalp becomes drier and flakier. This results in the buildup of dead skin cells and oil on the scalp, leading to dandruff.
• Excessive oil secretion: If excessive, oil on the scalp can lead to clogged hair follicles and an overgrowth of yeast.
• Hormone imbalance: Fluctuating levels of specific hormones can cause an overproduction of oil. Thus causing dandruff.
• Overuse of hair styling products: Overusing hair styling products such as hairsprays, gels, and mousses can also contribute to dandruff. These products can lead to an accumulation of oil and dirt on the scalp.
• Stress and fatigue: Stress can weaken the immune system and also lead to hormonal imbalance causing dandruff hair loss.
• Other disorders: Certain skin conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema, can cause dryness and irritation, eventually causing dandruff.
• Not Combing: Not brushing your hair regularly or enough can lead to the accumulation of dead skin cells. This will ultimately cause dandruff and hair loss.

Treatments

• Home remedies: There are several natural remedies to control hair fall. Some of these include - using tea tree oil, lemon juice, and aloe vera. These remedies can help reduce the itchiness and flakiness caused by dandruff.
• Over-the-counter shampoos: There are many anti-dandruff shampoos available in the market. They contain active ingredients such as zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, salicylic acid, coal tar, and ketoconazole. These shampoos can help reduce the symptoms of dandruff by controlling the growth of yeast on the scalp.
• Medicated shampoos: If over-the-counter shampoos do not work, your doctor may prescribe a stronger shampoo with a higher concentration of active ingredients. Medically prescribed shampoos contain anti-fungal or anti-dandruff ingredients that can help reduce flaking and irritability.
• Dietary changes: Making changes to your diet can also help reduce the symptoms of dandruff. Eating foods that are high in vitamin B, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids can improve scalp health.
• Topical corticosteroids: These are steroid creams or lotions that can be applied to the scalp to reduce inflammation and itching.
• Oral medications: Oral medications such as antibiotics, antifungals, and immunosuppressants may be prescribed in severe cases of dandruff.
• Light therapy: This type of treatment uses a sort of UV light to treat dandruff.

Extensive treatments

PRP Hair Treatment

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Hair Treatment is a popular non-surgical treatment, which can be an effective option for treating dandruff hair loss. It is one of the best scalp treatments for hair growth for severe cases of hair loss due to dandruff. It involves preparing a concentrated solution of platelets and plasma proteins derived from the patient’s blood and injecting it into the scalp.

• The growth factors released by the platelets further, encourage the production of new, healthy hair. This can minimize the occurrence of hair loss caused by dandruff.
• In addition to addressing the underlying issue of dandruff hair loss, PRP hair treatment can also help to improve the texture and thickness of the hair, making it look and feel healthier.

Prevention tips

Fortunately, you can reduce dandruff and promote healthy hair growth by taking proper care and precautions. First, it is important to maintain a good hygiene routine; shampoo your hair regularly and brush it with a gentle, natural-bristle comb. Additionally, look for products that contain ingredients like tea tree oil, argan oil, and aloe vera, which can help to soothe and nourish your scalp. Following is a list of do's and don'ts that will help prevent dandruff and hair loss:

• To prevent dandruff hair loss, it is important to increase the frequency of shampooing and scalp massages.
• Use a mild or deep cleansing shampoo depending on what works for you.
• Try a vinegar rinse: Mix one part apple cider vinegar with two parts water and use it to rinse your scalp after shampooing.
• Have a balanced and healthy diet rich in micronutrients.
• Don't use excessive hair care products that contain irritating ingredients such as alcohol, preservatives, and fragrances.
• Don't stress: Try to reduce stress levels, as stress can worsen dandruff.
• Don't scratch your scalp vigorously as that may cause inflammation.

However, it is important to seek medical advice in severe cases or if the symptoms persist.

Conclusion

Ultimately, it is clear that dandruff causes hair loss, though it is not the only factor that contributes to it. To avoid dandruff hair loss, it is important to identify the underlying cause of dandruff, whether it is due to a skin condition, dryness, or an underlying health issue. The professional team of doctors at UnCover helps you identify the actual cause of dandruff and provide a suitable and effective treatment plan for the same. With proper care and the right scalp treatment, you can have healthy hair that is free of dandruff and hair fall. Visit UnCover to know more about scalp treatment for hair growth.

FAQs

1. What is dandruff?

A: Dandruff is a common scalp condition caused by a fungus called Malasseziafurfur. It is characterized by white or grey flakes in the hair and on the scalp, along with itchiness and redness.

2. What causes dandruff?

A: Dandruff can be caused by a variety of factors, including dry skin, irritation from certain hair products, medical conditions, and stress.

3. How can I tell if I have dandruff?

A: If you notice white or grey flakes in your hair or on your scalp, it could be a sign of dandruff. Additionally, if you experience itchiness or redness of the scalp, this could also point to the presence of dandruff.

4. Can dandruff cause hair fall?

A: Yes, dandruff can lead to hair loss if it goes untreated for a long time. The inflammation caused by dandruff can damage the hair follicles, leading to hair loss.

5. Can dandruff be prevented?

A: Yes, dandruff can be prevented by taking proper care of your scalp. This includes using shampoo, avoiding hair products that irritate the scalp, and maintaining a healthy diet.

6. What home remedies can I use to treat dandruff?

A: There are several home remedies that you can use to treat dandruff, including tea tree oil, apple cider vinegar, or aloe vera. Additionally, you can try massaging your scalp with olive oil or coconut oil.

7. Does dandruff affect only the scalp?

A: Dandruff can also cause other skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis. Additionally, dandruff can cause itching and redness of the skin.

8. Is dandruff contagious?

A: No, dandruff is not contagious. However, it is possible for the fungus that causes dandruff to spread from one person to another.