Dandruff

Dandruff may be caused by many factors, including dry skin, sensitivity to hair care products, and growth of a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia on the scalp. Otherwise, it can also result from stress, hormonal changes, or not shampooing enough. This allows dead skin cells to accumulate and form flakes.

This cannot be completely cured, though it’s definitely possible to control and manage dandruff. It cannot be completely cured, especially when it is associated with chronic skin conditions like seborrheic dermatitis. Medicated shampoos come with ingredients like zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole, or salicylic acid. If used regularly, they help reduce flakes and itching.

No, dandruff is neither infectious nor contagious. It’s a common condition of the scalp and might not be passed from one person to another.

Hair needs to be washed regularly—about 2-3 times a week—with an anti-dandruff shampoo. Too much washing dries the scalp, though not washing enough provokes the issue further by letting dead skin cells accumulate on the scalp and irritate it, which results in dandruff.

Yes, dieting can have an effect on dandruff. Dandruff risk may be increased with a diet that is low in some of the key nutrients, like zinc, B-complex vitamins, and essential fatty acids. A balanced diet in these nutrients helps keep the scalp healthy.

Some home remedies, like tea tree oil, apple cider vinegar, and coconut oil, might control dandruff. Natural home remedies possess some antifungal properties that may help keep Malassezia at bay on the scalp and thus help alleviate symptoms of dandruff.