Dandruff: What does an itchy scalp tell you?
Dandruff usually declares itself with the appearance of flakes. At the same time, itching will be present. So, does a scratchy scalp try to tell you something more? Let us see what does it indicate and how to treat it.
Symptoms of dandruff
Dandruff symptoms include flakes and an itchy scaly scalp. The flakes are white and oily which accumulate in the hair and fall on to the shoulders when you comb your hair or move the hair. The symptoms get worse in winter months, especially when the air is dry.
The symptoms may occur due to various reasons including irritated and oily skin, not shampooing the hair for long causing the skin cells to accumulate and create flakes, due to the presence of yeast called malassezia that causes excess skin cell growth or due to the use of unsuitable personal care products which may cause dermatitis that make the scalp red and itchy.
Surprisingly, men are more prone to dandruff than women. People who more oil in the hair or those suffering from certain diseases are at higher risk. Symptoms also occur more frequently during puberty, but dandruff can develop at any age.
Steps to prevent scaly and itchy scalp
Check on your shampoo
Itchy scalp may be able to get some relief by using an OTC shampoo that are advertised as formulated to help control dandruff. But getting the right one may take some trial and error. If you are not sure, ask your doctor for a suggestion. You may need to use a special shampoo or medicated shampoo to match your hair and get your dandruff under control.
Moisturize
You know that a dry scalp always has a tendency to flake and itch, but usually, the flakes with dry skin are smaller and less oily. Once you restore moisture to the scalp, it can decrease the itchiness. For moisturizing, you may use coconut oil which also has antibacterial properties, making it the right natural choice for fighting dryness.
Maintain good hygiene
Regular shampooing can keep oils at bay, helping treat dandruff symptoms. You can also resist the urge to scratch your scalp. The itchiness is mainly caused due to the irritation from dandruff, but scratching will only lead to an increase in irritation.
Tackle your stress and relax
Stress is seen to scale up the dandruff attack in some individuals. Malassezia may not occur due to scalp, but it can thrive when your immune system is weak due to stress. You can relax, take a restorative walk or practice yoga and find an escape from stressful events to prevent dandruff.
Consult your doctor
The best thing is that dandruff is one condition which can be effectively treated with OTC shampoos and certain lifestyle measures. When in doubt or when you are not able to control the flakes and itichiness, go ahead and meet your doctor. Your doctor will examine thoroughly and prescribe the right shampoo and medications.
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