The causative agent of the disease is the fungus Pityrosporum Ovale, which is present on the hairy skin of every person. Under the influence of various negative factors, the vital activity of the fungus is activated, its quantity increases and the life cycle of the cells of the epidermis of the head is disrupted. Instead of the prescribed twenty-eight to thirty-two days, they live only eight, which leads to the accumulation of dead particles on the surface of the skin. That is why dandruff is a medical, not a cosmetic problem, and it should be solved under the guidance of a dermatologist or trichologist.
The appearance of dandruff is not affected by the quality of the hair - it can occur regardless of whether they are dry, oily or normal. As for the age factor, it plays an important role. It is noted that young people 14-25 years old are most susceptible to its appearance - it is at this age that sebum is secreted in excess, which is an additional provoking factor. In older people, sebum secretion is minimized, so dandruff is practically not found.
CAUSES
The causes of dandruff are based on a number of factors associated with functional failures in body systems, mainly endocrine, nervous and digestive systems. In addition, the appearance of excessive flaking is often due to external causes related to the environment and skin care.
Diseases that contribute to dandruff:
- neurological disorders: stress, depression, chronic fatigue syndrome,;
- unbalanced diet: eating too many sweets and flour products;
- obesity;
- diseases of the gastrointestinal tract: and the duodenum,;
- chronic diseases of the urinary system:,;
- genetically determined features of the structure and secretion of the scalp;
- improper scalp care: using inappropriate shampoos and other skin care products;
- rare or, conversely, too frequent hair hygiene contributes to dandruff;
- aggressive chemical composition of tap water used for shampooing;
- exposure to dry air: using a hair dryer, ironing, hair curlers, central heating in the cold season;
- lack of vitamins and minerals in the body: A, Z, group B, zinc, magnesium, healthy vegetable fats;
- an allergic reaction to the fibers that make up the headwear;
- decreased immunity;
- skin diseases:,;
- bad habits: smoking, alcohol.
It is noted that the risk of dandruff appears significantly in the cold season - the reason for this phenomenon lies in a small amount of ultraviolet radiation, which has the ability to neutralize the fungus, and in the presence of a large amount of synthetics in hats.
CLASSIFICATION
There are three types of dandruff:
- Dry dandruff is characterized by a large number of dry scales on the surface of the epidermis of the scalp, resulting from a lack of sebum production. With dry dandruff, the scales are easily separated from the hair, crumble and remain on clothes. Their number varies depending on the degree of the disease - in the initial stages they are noticeable only upon closer examination, and in difficult cases they cover the entire head of the patient. This type of dandruff is often accompanied by dry, brittle and split hair.
- Oily liquid dandruff occurs due to increased fat production, which, in turn, is a consequence of hormonal imbalance in the body. The pathology is easy to recognize by the appearance of the skin - it becomes shiny, covered with enlarged pores. The hair takes on an unkempt, unkempt look: it seems to be smeared with fat and lie on the head in sparse, thin strands, studded with yellowish scales. The processes occurring in the epidermis when oily seborrhea occurs, often lead to a loss of bactericidal properties, as a result of which painful and poorly healing abscesses form on the head. Oily liquid dandruff often leads to baldness.
- Oily thick dandruff, just like liquid dandruff, occurs due to excessive activity of the sebaceous glands, but at the same time it is accompanied by a blockage of their ducts. The disease is often complicated by the appearance of acne and follicles on the scalp, the hair becomes coarse, their shafts thicken, the number increases.
SYMPTOMS
The symptomatology of the disease depends on its type and is manifested by the following symptoms:
- scales covering the scalp - depending on the type of dandruff, they can easily come off or adhere firmly to the surface of the epidermis and the base of the hair;
- violation of the balance of sebum production - the skin becomes too dry or, conversely, too oily;
- unkempt appearance;
- itching and other discomfort;
- increased hair loss, baldness.
The listed symptoms can also apply to other dermatological diseases of the scalp (seborrhea, shingles), therefore, before starting treatment, it is necessary to carry out a qualified diagnosis with the help of a specialist.
DIAGNOSTICS
In diagnosing dandruff, the main focus is on the symptomatic manifestations of the disease. But since dandruff is only an external manifestation of the internal problems of the body, the doctor's task is to examine the patient in order to identify them.
Methods for identifying diseases:
- general and biochemical blood test;
- general analyzes of urine and feces;
- hormone tests;
- Ultrasound of the thyroid gland;
- Ultrasound of the gastrointestinal tract.
If necessary, other diagnostic methods are also involved in identifying the causes that provoked the appearance of dandruff, and other specialists are also involved - a gastroenterologist, an immunologist, an infectious disease specialist.
TREATMENT
Dandruff treatment is divided into two directions - the first is to neutralize the causes that caused it, and the second is to get rid of external symptoms. If the first stage completely depends on the results of the examination and the diagnosis made by the doctor, then for the second, as a rule, pharmacy antifungal shampoos, lotions, serums, balms and masks are used. Natural shampoos based on tar, St. John's wort, sulfur, boron, fermented milk products, salicylic acid, ichthyol also have a beneficial effect on the condition of the scalp.
Other therapies:
- hormonal and vitamin therapy (taking zinc, sulfur, B vitamins);
- ultraviolet treatment;
- drugs that normalize bowel function;
- immunity-enhancing drugs.
To stimulate the production of keratin (a protein that plays a direct role in the formation of the hair structure), vasoconstrictors are topically prescribed.
COMPLICATIONS
Long-term absence of dandruff treatment is fraught with such negative consequences as weakening of hair follicles, thinning and thinning of hair, their fragility, and as a result - loss of an attractive appearance. The disease can also provoke various inflammatory processes in the skin, the cause of which is the scratching of the constantly itchy skin and the introduction of infection into it.
PREVENTION
Preventing dandruff comes down to following the general rules of a healthy lifestyle, as well as observing hygiene standards.
Measures to reduce the risk of dandruff:
- Thorough but moderate hygiene: the ideal frequency of washing your hair is 2-3 times a week. At the same time, products for the care of the scalp and hair should be carefully selected taking into account individual characteristics, have the most natural composition, and if a person has a tendency to form dandruff, then periodic use of special therapeutic agents is desirable as a preventive measure.
- A healthy balanced diet, which must include legumes, nuts, dairy products, plenty of fresh, boiled and stewed fruits and vegetables. You should exclude from the menu or minimize the use of all foods that can negatively affect the digestion process, provoke or diarrhea (white flour baked goods, carbonated drinks, fast food, chips, fried foods, etc.).
- Monitor the state of the nervous system: do not disrupt work and rest, try to rest more, fill life with positive impressions.
Preventive measures also include maintaining healthy immunity (age-appropriate and physical fitness playing sports, swimming, staying in the fresh air for at least two hours on weekdays and at least four hours on weekends), giving up bad habits.
RECOVERY FORECAST
The initial stages of dandruff usually take 4 to 6 weeks to heal. In more advanced cases, especially those aggravated by endocrine disorders, this period is extended by the time required for a complete cure of the underlying disease. If the disease is chronic, then dandruff treatment must be carried out several times a year.
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Effective treatment of this disease is possible only with the correct identification of the causes of dandruff. It is very difficult to independently determine the origins of dandruff, therefore trichologists recommend contacting them for detailed advice and identifying real health problems.
The causes and treatment of dandruff is possible at home. However, in order to effectively get rid of the problem, it is necessary to consult with a specialist, take medications and use folk methods of directed action.
Dandruff reasons
Improper hair care
Many people neglect this reason and do not attach much importance to the basic rules for hair care.
Hair care errors can be as follows:
External influences on the hair of harmful factors
Environmental influences can also negatively affect scalp health.
In the warm season - the sun's rays, and in the cold - minimum temperatures and wind, very traumatic factors for the scalp. If a person does not wear hats, then at some point this can lead to dandruff.
The environmental situation is an important factor affecting hair health. Dust, exhaust gases, chlorinated water are the causes of clogged skin pores on the head and the rapid death of the upper layer of cells.
Disruption of metabolic processes in the body, in the work of internal organs
Internal causes of dandruff:
Fungal diseases of the scalp
The fungus of the scalp has many types. It can cause dandruff and make you feel uncomfortable. At home, it is impossible to identify the type of fungal disease and it is necessary to undergo a special examination by a doctor.
Symptoms of scalp fungus include:
- severe hair loss and deterioration in hair quality;
- dryness and loss of healthy shine of the strands;
- strong and noticeable exfoliation of the scalp and the appearance of "islands" of peeling;
- fragility of hair, starting from the roots.
Having distinguished these symptoms, it is necessary to pass tests and begin a thorough treatment.
Improper nutrition, lack of vitamins and nutrients
Dandruff can be caused by poor diet. If you do not follow your daily diet, constantly eat flour products, sweets, fatty and very salty foods, then it is possible that the scalp will not react in the best way.
Spicy foods also cause the sebaceous glands to become overactive. Lack of useful fiber: fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as various cereals will lead to slagging of the stomach and itchy scalp. The water balance must also be strictly observed, it is he who helps cleanse the body.
The most common cause of dandruff is yeast. They are ardent assistants in the formation of the fungus. Yeast is found in bakery products, baked goods, and beer products. It is good to avoid making yeast-based baked goods and breads at home.
Lack of vitamins and nutrients plays a significant role in scalp diseases. Basically, if vitamins of groups A, E and B are absent in the diet, then the upper layer of the epidermis is peeled off with plates, the hair loses its elasticity and falls out.
When dandruff appears, it is necessary to revise the diet in favor of healthy natural products rich in vitamins and nutrients. Lack of B vitamins is characterized by a lack of blood and oxygen flow to the hair follicles, loss of natural hair pigment, inhibition of growth and development of hair follicles, disruption of the conversion of amino acids that prevent dandruff.
The lack of the required amount of vitamins A, E, C in the body is accompanied by a violation of the immune system, deterioration of blood circulation in the scalp, destruction of hair follicles.
Lack of iron, zinc, calcium, selenium, silicon, magnesium threatens hair with the most unpleasant external signs and is an integral reason for the formation of dandruff.
Note! At home, it is not possible to detect the absence of certain vitamins, trace elements and substances. To do this, you need to conduct a medical examination and pass all tests.
Hormonal disbalance
Hormonal disruption occurs in the human body when the level of male hormones in the blood changes. This hormone increases the production of sebum, which holds the dead scales on the scalp and also sticks them together. This leads to the detachment of cells in layers.
Factors affecting hormone failure:
- hormonal disruptions characteristic most often for adolescents and women during menopause. Dandruff in these situations is a passing phenomenon;
- jumps in hormones are sometimes caused by hereditary factors. If the family has increased grease, then it is transmitted with genes;
- concomitant diseases associated with old age, or with malfunctions on a nervous basis: schizophrenia, Parkinson's disease, epileptic seizures, psychosis;
- side effects of medications. In women, it often happens when taking hormone-based contraceptives;
- diseases based on damage to the vegetative system: nervous, digestive tract, central nervous system;
- various infectious diseases;
- metabolic disorders in the body.
Be careful! In the course of hormonal changes, dandruff can cause serious illness. Home treatment can make the situation worse.
Stressful and emotional upheavals
Stress is considered one of the main causes of all known human diseases. Dandruff is no exception.
What can provoke stressful situations:
- worries about loved ones;
- tragic events associated with the loss of relatives;
- nervous overload at work;
- systematic lack of sleep;
- chronic nervous disorders;
- lack of essential nutrients in the body;
- diseases and operations;
- excessive workaholism.
To get rid of dandruff in this case, you need to remove the source of stress.
If serious emotional upheavals have occurred in life, then as soon as the body regains its previous emotional balance, dandruff will go away by itself.
Hereditary factor
Psoriasis is a genetic disorder associated with dandruff. With severe stress, low immunity, constant fatigue, the development of this disease can occur.
Young people under 30 are most often at risk. If a similar disease was noticed in a family or in someone from distant relatives, then it could well be transmitted through several generations.
A dermatologist or a trichologist will help to establish the diagnosis with a full examination of the body.
The main symptoms of seborrhea
Seborrhea is a skin disease that occurs during the irregular activity of the sebaceous glands.
Symptoms of the appearance of seborrhea:
- curls become oily by the evening after washing them in the morning;
- the scalp is covered with "islands" of sticky scales;
- curls contain oily sheen;
- itching appears in the scalp;
- the ends break, split, cease to radiate a healthy look;
- wounds often appear and combed areas become inflamed.
Effective home treatment for dandruff
Dandruff (Causes and Home Treatments) is an important obstacle to healthy hair.
The first method that many people resort to is a special anti-dandruff shampoo. There is a large selection of such products on the market, and the effect of them is not always positive. Therefore, getting rid of dandruff should be carried out in a comprehensive manner, using all proven methods: chemicals, as well as home masks.
Oily dandruff masks
Oily dandruff is characterized by the accumulation of large yellowish flakes, severe greasiness of the scalp, and adhesion of the strands to each other.
Special hair and scalp masks are used to treat dandruff Homemade masks are used to treat this type of dandruff:
| Mask name | Preparation |
| Mustard | 2 tbsp. l. powder mustard is diluted with warm water to a paste. 2 tbsp is added to the resulting mass. l. lemon juice. The ingredients are mixed, gently applied to the scalp. It is effective to warm the head with cellophane film and a towel. Keep the mask for no more than 10 minutes. Then rinse your head in the usual way. Be careful! If the mustard is unpleasant to burn the skin, the mask should be washed off immediately. |
| Yoghurt | 4 tbsp. l. natural yogurt mixed with 2 tbsp. l. lemon juice and 2 tsp. salt. The mixture is spread over the scalp for 20 minutes. and rinses off thoroughly. |
| Based on radish juice | Radish juice is gently rubbed into the scalp and after 1 hour is washed off with shampoo. |
Masks for the treatment of oily dandruff should be used no more than 1 session in 7 days. If any component causes discomfort on the skin, itching, redness, wounds, then this recipe should be excluded.
Dry dandruff masks
Dry dandruff is noted by its presence in large quantities, small in size, accompanied by itching... Hair loses its former appearance, dullness appears, hair loss intensifies, ends break.
After applying the composition of the mask to the scalp and hair, for better absorption of the composition, it is necessary to wrap the head with cling film
Treatment for dandruff at home should be carried out in a comprehensive manner, using all proven methods: chemicals, as well as home masks, determine the reasons in advance.
| Mask name | Preparation |
| Olive oil based | This component helps to eliminate the causes of dry flakes at home. 4 tsp Warm olive oil in a water bath and pour in 2 tsp. lemon juice. Gradually rub into the roots of the strands. Withstand 15 minutes. and wash off with your shampoo. |
| Kefir | 100 ml. kefir is mixed with 1 tbsp. l. any vegetable oil and the pulp of black bread is added. It is applied to the scalp for no more than 15 minutes. Washed off in the usual way. |
| Honey | 2 tbsp. l. honey is mixed with 1 yolk and 2 tbsp. l. burdock oil. Warm up all the ingredients separately, then mix and distribute over the entire head for 20 minutes. Clean well with shampoo. |
Masks for getting rid of dry dandruff are made once every 7 days until a positive result is obtained.... For prevention, such recipes are used once a month.
Folk remedies for dandruff at home
If the identified causes of dandruff do not belong to hormonal disruptions, fungal diseases, disorders of the organs and body systems, then you can use traditional methods of treatment at home.
Dandruff vinegar
Vinegar is an alternative treatment for dandruff. Its price is budget, and the range of applications is large.
Apple cider vinegar is recommended for treating dandruff, since it has the property of normalizing blood circulation and healing the skin. 
It is recommended to experiment first and choose a light vinegar-based mask. In this case it is necessary to dilute vinegar with water in an amount of 1: 1... Apply to moisturized scalp and hair. It should be kept for no more than 5 minutes.
If the dandruff is too severe, another method should be chosen. The recipe remains the same, but the head is wrapped in plastic and a towel. This tool must be kept for 40 minutes, and then rinse the head with the usual method.
Acetic wrap should be done in a course: 2 times a week for about 2 months.
Interesting fact! Vinegar, when used frequently, can dry out the scalp and curls. To balance moisture, it is recommended to use a hair balm after such procedures.
Anti-dandruff soda
Soda has excellent antiseptic properties, helps cleanse the scalp from sebaceous accumulations, and reduces itching.
Best for people with oily dandruff problem.
Simple masks using baking soda:
- Soda-oatmeal - pre-crushed oatmeal flakes in the amount of 50 gr. mixed with 30 gr. soda. Next, warm water is added in the proportion necessary to bring the mixture to a mushy state. It is spread on the scalp and left for 7 minutes. After it is washed off with shampoo;
- Honey and soda mixture - honey in the amount of 50 gr. heats up to a comfortable temperature, 1.5 tbsp is added to it. l. soda and distributed over the scalp. After 5 min. wash off in the usual way.
The use of these masks must be observed 2 times a week. The cycle of use is designed for 1 month.
Important to remember! Baking soda is a natural chemical and can cause an allergic reaction.
Anti-dandruff sea salt
Sea salt properties:
- cleansing the scalp at home from dead scales;
- restoration of the sebaceous glands;
- kills the fungus and bacteria that often cause dandruff;
- promotes the delivery of oxygen to the cells of the scalp;
- stops hair loss.
The use of sea salt is varied. 
Salt peeling is the most effective treatment for dandruff.
Ingredients: to 3 tsp. finely ground sea salt add 4 tbsp. l. water. Stir and apply the gruel to the scalp using massage movements. Pre-moisten the scalp with water so as not to injure.
Salt peeling with the addition of essential oils. 3 tbsp is mixed. l. balm, 2 tbsp. l. sea \u200b\u200bsalt, 4 drops of essential oil. To eliminate dandruff, trichologists advise using essential oils of lavender, tea tree, lemon.
The resulting mask is gently massaged onto the hair roots for 3 minutes, without affecting the length and ends.
Salt formulations should not be kept on the hair for a long time. After a light massage, it must be washed with shampoo.
Salt masks are also part of the dandruff treatment package.
Banana salt mask: soften 1 banana in a blender and add 1 tbsp. l. sea \u200b\u200bsalt. Gently massage into the scalp, wrap with a plastic bag and a towel. After 30 min. clean your head with shampoo.
Note! Salt procedures are contraindicated for use in wounds, scratches, and various damage to the scalp.
Aloe juice for dandruff
Aloe juice is an effective natural antiseptic, used as an ingredient for anti-dandruff masks, and as a standalone remedy.
Natural aloe juice is applied at night with massage movements into the roots of the strands. After waking up, rinse hair in the usual way. The frequency of the procedures depends on the neglect of the disease. To accelerate the effect, the use of aloe can be adjusted up to 3 sessions per week. Aloe juice also helps relieve itchy scalp. 
An anti-dandruff mask with aloe juice is made according to the following recipe: 3 tbsp. l. aloe juice, 1 tbsp. l. tincture of calendula flowers, 1 tbsp. l. castor oil, 1 tbsp. l. honey. All components are thoroughly mixed and spread over the scalp and strands for 2 hours.
For a deep action of the mask, it is advised to wrap the head with a towel with a plastic bag. The hair is then washed in the usual way. After 1 such procedure, itching disappears, dandruff becomes much less, hair looks healthier. A mask is made at least 1 time per week until a positive result is achieved.
Dandruff onion
Onions contain a huge amount of useful minerals, trace elements, vitamins that will help get rid of dandruff and at the same time strengthen weakened hair.
Use the onion by grating it.
Onion gruel is tied in gauze and the resulting lump is rubbed onto the scalp. The procedure is done in 30 minutes. before washing the strands. To cure severe dandruff, repeat this process once a day.
For a dry variety of dandruff, a mask of 1 tbsp is prepared. l. onion pulp, 2 tbsp. l. castor oil and 2 tbsp. l. vodka. Rub the prepared mass into the scalp for 35 minutes. before washing it.
For oily type of dandruff, onion peel in the amount of 50 grams is suitable. It should be insisted for 40 minutes. on steep boiling water. This infusion is used after washing the hair for rinsing. Since onions have the property of dyeing, people with light curls should be wary of such a tool.
Interesting fact! When using onion procedures, an unpleasant aroma remains persistent, therefore, after washing your hair with shampoo, it is recommended to rinse your head with a composition of 2 tbsp. l. lemon juice and 1 liter. water.
Aspirin tablets for dandruff
Used as a home remedy for dandruff. Aspirin is added to the required amount of shampoo and is used for one-time shampooing. It is better to take shampoo with a natural composition so that the chemical components do not enter into an unpredictable reaction and do not spoil the curls.
To apply this method, you need to take 1 table. aspirin, grind into powder and add 2 tbsp. l. your shampoo. Then apply the product with massage movements to the roots and distribute to all hair. Rinse under warm water.
An aspirin-based anti-dandruff mask is quite simple to prepare. It is necessary to warm up 2 tbsp. l. burdock oil, crush 3 tab. aspirin, add 3 tbsp. l. lemon juice and 1 chicken yolk. The mixture spreads over the scalp and along its entire length.
It is worth keeping such a mask for at least 20 minutes. Then wash off with shampoo.
If to 5 crushed table. aspirin add 5 drops of lavender ether and 1 tbsp. l. grape seed oil, then such a mask will relieve itchy scalp. You need to hold the product for at least 15 minutes. and wash off with plenty of shampoo.
Dandruff eggs
The easiest recipe: beat the egg white and mix with the yolk... Wash your hair with shampoo and apply the egg mass from the roots and over the entire surface of the strands. After 30 minutes. rinse your head with water.
Chicken egg masks recipes:
- With kefir - highly effective remedy for dandruff. 4 tbsp is kneaded. l. kefir, 3 tbsp. l. olive oil, 1 chicken yolk. Such a mixture for 120 minutes. spread on the scalp and along the length of the hair. Insulated with cellophane and a towel, washed with shampoo. Use 2 times every 7 days for the desired effect;
- With glycerin - beat 1 egg until a foamy consistency, add 1 tsp. glycerin and 1 tsp. lemon juice. Apply over scalp and wrap with a film towel. Keep for at least 60 minutes. Washable with warm water and shampoo. Frequency of application: 2 times every 7 days for 1 month;
- With chamomile broth - brew 2 tbsp. l. chamomile flowers, beat in the egg white and add 5 drops of vitamin A. Beat the composition well. Gently spread the resulting mass over the head with massage movements and wash with shampoo. You need to practice such masks 2 times every 7 days for 1 month.
Burdock root for dandruff
Burdock is a plant rich in vitamins, minerals and healing substances.
Burdock root is found in many hair products. Its main property is the fight against dandruff, itchy skin, and wound healing.
Burdock Root Dandruff Recipes: 
- Burdock root decoction - it is necessary to grind 3 tbsp. l. root and boil for 30 minutes. with 2 glasses of boiling water. Take inside 1/2 cup of broth for 40 minutes. before meals for 2 months;
- Blend of herbs and burdock root - 1 tbsp is taken. l. chopped burdock root, 1 tbsp. l. chamomile inflorescences, 1 tbsp. l. turns, 1 tbsp. l. tansy, 1 tbsp. l. corn silk. All ingredients are poured into an enamel pan, 1 liter is poured. boiling water and simmer over low heat for 20 minutes. The broth is filtered through cheesecloth and left to cool. It is used as a hair rinse. You can also drink 0.5 cups in the morning;
- Burdock root with vegetable oil - ground burdock root 1 tbsp. l. 3 tbsp is poured. l. vegetable oil. Placed in a glass container for 60 minutes. Next, the resulting substance is filtered and heated to a comfortable temperature. Rubbing into the scalp is recommended 2 times every 7 days. The course of treatment is 10 procedures.
Burdock oil for dandruff
Trichologists advise using burdock oil both for the treatment of oily and dry dandruff. Well helps with fungal diseases of the scalp and helps the sebaceous glands.
A mask for getting rid of dry dandruff with garlic is prepared at the rate of 1 head of garlic and 50 gr. burdock oil. The garlic is crushed to a mushy mass and added to the preheated oil. Everything is thoroughly mixed and the mixture is gently distributed on the scalp.
It should be washed off in the usual way 2 hours after application. It is recommended to repeat this procedure at least 10 times.
Burdock oil also helps well in its natural form for the treatment of seborrhea.
For this, 3 tbsp. l. burdock oil must be heated in a water bath, the curls must be divided into clear partings and rub the product into the roots over them. Spread the remaining product along the entire length of the curls.
Wrap your head with a plastic cap and a towel. Wait about 60 minutes. and wash your hair thoroughly with shampoo.
For the effectiveness of treatment, the procedure is performed 2 times a week for about 2 months. For prophylaxis, once every 14 days.
Castor oil for dandruff
Castor oil A mask for getting rid of oily dandruff includes: 1 tbsp. l. castor oil, 1 tbsp. l. aloe juice, 1 tbsp. l. lemon juice, 1 tbsp. l. natural honey.
The ingredients mix well and are distributed over the hairline for 30 minutes. The mixture is cleaned with shampoo.
For dry dandruff, use 2 tbsp. l. olive oil, 2 tbsp. l. castor oil, juice from 1 lemon. Spread the mixed components over the scalp for 30 minutes. and rinse with your shampoo.
Such masks are made in a course of 7-8 procedures, 2 times in 7 days.
Tea tree oil for dandruff
Tea tree oil is one of the most powerful essential oils for dandruff removal.
For a medical mask, 2 tbsp is taken. l. olive oil and 5-7 drops of tea tree oil. Rub gradually into scalp and leave for 60 minutes. Rinse hair thoroughly with your favorite shampoo. 
This recipe will help remove dandruff and excess scalp grease. For the base, 500 ml is boiled. water, 5 drops of lavender oil and tea tree oil are added to it. All components mix well and are poured into a spray tube. Apply to hair and scalp.
For oily dandruff, adding tea tree oil to the shampoo helps. Before washing the hair, the required amount of shampoo is cast and 3 drops of tea tree are added.
Note! For people with dry type of dandruff, adding tea tree oil to shampoo is contraindicated due to the strong drying properties of this product.
Laundry soap for dandruff
Dandruff is often caused by fungal diseases. Laundry soap does an excellent job of destroying the fungus, removes itching, heals wounds on the scalp. This product should be used with caution as it contains a lot of alkali.
At home it is best to use a liquid laundry soap. But if it is not at hand, then you can grate the bar soap on a kitchen grater.
The soap, rubbed into fine shavings, is moistened with water and evenly distributed over the head. A plastic wrap is put on top, and such a mask is left on the head overnight. In the morning, the mixture is washed off with water, the hair is rinsed with herbal decoction. You can do the procedures once a week. Course - 10 sessions.
Grated soap combined with almond oil and soda helps. 2 tbsp. l. almond oil, 1 tbsp. l. soap shavings, 1 tsp. soda is mixed into a slurry and rubbed into the scalp. After 15 minutes. wash your hair as usual. After that, a moisturizing balm is applied to the strands.
Tar soap for dandruff
Birch tar is an irreplaceable antiseptic, combats various types of fungus, and is suitable for the treatment of profuse dandruff.
To get rid of dandruff, it is recommended to thoroughly moisten the hair with water, lather tar soap in your hands, massage the foam onto the scalp.
Hold for 5 minutes. and wash with warm water. Next, use a hair balm. To prevent your hair from absorbing the smell of tar, you need to rinse it with a water solution of apple cider vinegar.
If to 5 crushed table. aspirin add 5 drops of lavender ether and 1 tbsp. l. grape seed oil, then such a mask will relieve itchy scalp.
If the skin is sensitive, a simple test should be carried out before use. Foam from tar soap is applied to the wrist and the area is monitored for 1.5 hours. If there is no irritation, redness and itching, then the soap can be applied to the scalp.
Trichologists are allowed to use this method no more than 1 time per week. Otherwise, overdrying the scalp cannot be avoided, therefore, dandruff may appear 2 times more than before using soap.
Nettle decoction for dandruff
Nettle contains many essential amino acids, vitamins, essential oils. Herbal decoctions with nettle have been used since ancient times to cure dandruff and seborrhea.
To prepare the broth, you need dry leaves, purchased at a pharmacy, or harvested yourself. 
Dry herb is poured in 500 ml. water and languishes in a water bath for about 20 minutes. Then refrigerate for 2 hours. The resulting broth must be diluted in portions with shampoo and wash your hair. It will also help give your hair a beautiful look and speed up hair growth.
It is helpful to use a combination of nettle and coltsfoot to relieve itchy scalp. Herbs are taken in 1: 1 proportions and brewed with 1 liter. boiling water. The infusion is removed in a dark place for 3 hours and then filtered through gauze. After washing, it is necessary to rinse the hair with the infusion made at least 2 times in 7 days.
Calendula for dandruff
Dandruff (causes) and home treatment are closely related to the medicinal properties of calendula.
Tincture and decoction of calendula are widely used in the elimination of this disease.
The tincture of calendula flowers purchased at the pharmacy is advised to be applied to the scalp using a damp cotton pad... Then the hair is insulated with a towel for 5-7 minutes. Feeling after application may not be comfortable and the skin may tingle.
This is not a contraindication to use if no calendula allergy has been noticed before. Hair is well washed with water and then with shampoo. The recipe is made once a week. The course reaches 1 month.
A decoction of calendula is prepared as follows:
- 50 gr. dry calendula and 50 gr. chamomile inflorescences are mixed with 300 gr. nettle leaves;
- the mixture is ground to a homogeneous consistency into powder and 500 ml is added. boiling water;
- the broth simmers over low heat for 10 minutes;
- then it is necessary to cool and strain the product.
You can use the broth as a rinse for curls, or as a mask for rubbing into the roots.
Popular medicinal and cosmetic products for dandruff from the pharmacy Dandruff is considered one of the most common problems among people of all ages. You can use expensive specialized products to treat this ailment, but homemade recipes will always come to the rescue and save your budget. The main thing to remember about all the nuances of the application and the result will be positive.
Causes and treatment of dandruff at home. Video:
Dandruff reasons:
Dandruff treatment at home:
Dandruff is a combination of causes (or a syndrome) that is characterized by an accelerated process of detachment of skin particles (in the form of scales) over a relatively long period. Dandruff is most common on the scalp covered with hair.
Dandruff should not be confused with a dry scalp. In the process of human life, there is a constant death of skin cells and slight flaking of the scalp is normal (about 487,000 cells per 1 cm 2).
Dandruff is a common scalp disorder and affects nearly half of the population of all ages, gender, and ethnicity.
What causes dandruff
Dandruff usually results from three factors or a combination of both:
1.Incorrect work of the sebaceous glands (or seborrhea)
Seborrhea, a general term for dandruff, is a disease. In a general sense, this is an imbalance in sebum production, which leads to a decrease or increase in sebum production and a change in the chemical composition of the sebaceous secretion. This process can occur due to chronic metabolic disorders, the general state of the immune system, age and gender, nutritional characteristics and skin pollution.
Distinguish between oily seborrhea (liquid and thick) and dry.
With oily liquid seborrhea, the pores are enlarged, the skin shines, and the hair on the head looks like oiled, often sticking together in strands. The hair is covered with yellowish scales, and pustules often appear on the scalp.
With oily thick seborrhea, the elasticity of the skin decreases, possibly the appearance of comedones (horny plug, blackheads). The hair on the head is coarse and coarse.
2.Fungus damage to the skin
With reduced sebum secretion, scales abundantly cover the hair and scalp. This process is called dry seborrhea (dandruff). This phenomenon is associated with the activation process of the fungus, which has the name "Pityrosporum Ovale", or "Malassezia Furfur".
With good immunity, the fungus behaves stably. With a strong physical and mental imbalance, with a prolonged violation of the diet, the fungus is activated, which leads to an acceleration of the growth of epidermal cells. The period of exfoliation of the skin takes from 5 to 7 days (in the absence of the disease, this period lasts about one month).
As a result, there is a large amount of excess scales. If this process is accompanied by irritation of the scalp, itching and isolated foci of redness, then we can talk about seborrheic dermatitis. Hair, in this case, becomes brittle, thin and dry.
3.Individual characteristics of the organism
These include the features of the secretion of the skin and its structure, hereditary predisposition and seasonal changes. Other features include the following reasons:
- People with certain skin conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema, are more likely to suffer from dandruff than others.
- Adults with Parkinson's disease and some other neurological diseases are more prone to dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis than others.
- Patients of any age who have had heart attacks and strokes, and some people with weak immune systems, are more likely to develop dandruff than others.
- Some experts believe that people who do not consume enough foods containing zinc, vitamins, and certain types of fats are more prone to dandruff.
- Mental stress. Many experts believe there is a link between frequent stress and many skin problems.
- The study found that 10.6% of people with HIV are prone to seborrheic dermatitis.
All of the above allows us to conclude that all processes and phenomena that lead to the appearance of dandruff are manageable and controllable.
Anti-dandruff remedies
Fortunately, these processes are manageable. In mild cases, it is enough to find a suitable anti-dandruff shampoo of a certain composition and stabilize your lifestyle.
In most cases, mild dandruff does not require a visit to the doctor. However, if the condition of the scalp worsens, and the use of the treating shampoo does not bring the desired result, then you should consult a doctor. A doctor may diagnose seborrheic dermatitis or another associated disease that requires certain treatment conditions.
Most anti-dandruff remedies or antifungal shampoos (anti-dandruff shampoos) contain at least one of the following active ingredients:
- Zinc pyrithione is an antibacterial agent.
- Selene sulfide - is responsible for reducing the rate of cell production.
- Sulfur - helps to remove dandruff flakes.
- Ketoconazole is a very effective antifungal agent. Most people who use ketoconazole products are happy with the results. Shampoo with this ingredient can be used by both young and old people.
- Salicylic acid is an exfoliating ingredient.
- Tea Tree Oil - This oil is extracted from the Australian tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia). It can be said that at present, shampoo manufacturers increasingly include tea tree oil in their composition. Tea tree oil is an antifungal and antiseptic. However, some people may be allergic to this type of oil.
The ideal solution would be to choose a shampoo that contains two or three of the above components.
In addition to shampoos, creams are also used to combat seborrhea:
- Cortisone Creams - Reduce inflammation. This cream can be purchased without a prescription in 0.5% or 1% concentration. The cream is used twice a day, the result will appear only after a few days. This type of cream is available as a scalp lotion. Apply once a day, preferably on damp hair after shampooing. Can be used with medicated shampoos.
- Antifungal creams. The action of these creams is aimed at reducing the number of yeast organisms living on the skin. Available over the counter are Clotrimazole Cream 1% and Miconazole Cream 2%. Antifungal creams are applied once or twice a day.
How to get rid of dandruff
Healing shampoos for dandruff, like medicinal creams, should be used during the active stage of seborrhea. As the manifestation of the disease decreases, it is necessary to reduce the use of medications and, as a consequence, switch to the use of everyday hygiene products. In case of the next appearance of the disease, creams and shampoos can be reused.
It may happen that when the disease reappears, the remedies that you used in previous times may not be effective at present. In this case, you will need to use other shampoos and / or creams with the above ingredients.
Basic rules for the use of medicinal shampoos. The shampoo should be applied to damp hair and left on the scalp for about five minutes. If the shampoo is rinsed off too quickly, the active ingredients will not have enough time to take effect.
Basic rules for the use of medicinal creams (masks, lotions). Healing creams are used in combination with medicated shampoos. Masks and lotions are kept on the scalp for 20-30 minutes.
In parallel with the use of remedies, you must follow the following simple diet. Eaten food should be rich in vitamins and fiber. The diet should contain fermented milk products. The consumption of fatty and sweet foods should be limited. It is also recommended to consume at least two liters of clean water daily.
Folk remedies for dandruff
Dandruff treatment at homecan be as effective as treating expensive dandruff remedies.
Egg based mask. Beat two eggs in a little warm water. Apply the resulting mixture to hair for ten minutes, then rinse. This treatment helps prevent dandruff.
Orange juice and aloe mask... You need two teaspoons of aloe juice and two teaspoons of orange juice, one egg yolk. Stir all components until smooth and apply to the scalp. Wash off with warm water after 40 minutes. After applying such a mask, you should rinse your hair with a decoction made from horsetail (which can be bought at the pharmacy).
Calendula rinse... Pour one tablespoon of calendula (take inflorescences) with two glasses of 80% boiling water, leave for 30 minutes. After washing the hair, rub the resulting infusion into the scalp, then put a plastic bag on the head, remove the bag after 30 minutes, do not rinse the hair. This procedure is recommended to be carried out two or three times a week.
Chamomile-based rinse... Pour two tablespoons of chamomile (inflorescences) with one liter of water and boil for five minutes. After cooling, rub the broth into the scalp.
Chamomile-based rinse.Prepare an infusion of chamomile inflorescences in a ratio of 1 to 10. Wash your head with infusion two or three times a week, the number of procedures from 10 to 15. This course can be repeated after two or three weeks.
Thyme based rinse... Pour 0.5 liters of water over four tablespoons of thyme and boil for 10 minutes. Cool the broth and strain, apply to damp hair, moistening it completely. Rinse off with water. You can use it after every shampoo.
Anti-fungus rinse... Dissolve one tablespoon of sea salt in 0.5 liters of warm water. Apply the solution to clean, damp hair and rinse well after 5 minutes. Then rinse your hair in another solution (add one teaspoon of lemon juice to 0.5 liters of water).
Hair oils... Mix one tablespoon with ten tablespoons of calendula alcohol tincture (sold at the pharmacy). Use to rub into scalp twice a day.
When using any medication, a specialist consultation is required.
Seborrhea... Disease provoked by a violation of the activity of the sebaceous glands.
Seborrhea affects not only the scalp, but other parts of the body as well. Consider the main factors from which dandruff appears on the head in women.
Heredity... Seborrhea can be genetically programmed and passed on from generation to generation.
Taking hormonal drugs... Uncontrolled intake of hormonal drugs for mental disorders, stress. The use of contraception, the use of steroids during sports, drugs for weight loss.
Diseases... The presence of seborrhea signals problems with the ovaries, the formation of a large amount of male hormones in the blood.
It can be a harbinger of neoplasms in the organs of the genitourinary system or accompany epilepsy, nervous disorders, Parkinson's disease.
Weakened immunity... Diseases of the thyroid gland, diabetes mellitus, chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, long-term use of medications leads to a malfunction in the body, weakening its protective functions.
Hormonal disbalance... In childhood, the glands that produce the sebaceous secretion practically do not function. In adolescence, adulthood occurs, puberty. The level of hormones increases, they give impetus to activate the sebaceous glands.
Frequent use of electric heaters... A hair dryer, an iron for straightening hair, curling irons and other devices, with systematic use, dry out the hair and scalp.
Incorrectly selected hair care products... Shampoos, gels, rinses should be appropriate for a specific hair type.
Hair coloring... No matter how many manufacturers write about the use of natural ingredients to create coloring agents, practice confirms the opposite. The chemicals in the colorants have a negative effect on the skin.
Masks... Home-made masks using various products to improve hair growth (pepper tincture, vitamins) can do more harm than good.
Lack of knowledge, the desire to get a quick effect, lead to mistakes, which can result in dandruff.
Improper nutrition... Eating fatty, smoked, fried foods, lack of vegetables and fruits, a large amount of sweets.
Stress, overwork, heavy physical activity.
Impact of external factors... Unfavorable weather conditions, polluted atmosphere.
Signs
Clinical signs of seborrhea... , each of which has its own clinical picture of development.
- ... The sebaceous glands work hard, a large amount of sebaceous secretion is produced, the skin and hair acquire a shiny, greasy look. The resulting dandruff is large, oily, multi-layered. The sebaceous glands become clogged, bacterial infection begins, which leads to purulent inflammation of the deep layers of the skin. Complications: seborrheic eczema, seborrheic dermatitis.
- ... The sebaceous glands reduce sebum production. The skin dries up, cracks. Hair becomes brittle, dry, ends split. The dandruff is fine, dry. worse after shampooing. Complications: red skin spots on the affected area (seborrheids), fungal skin lesions.
- Mixed seborrhea... Combines clinical signs of both types.
Clinical signs of dandruff... Dermal integuments are dehydrated, the skin dries out... Changes (shortens) the natural cycle of skin flakes separation.
In a normal state, the skin renewal process takes 30 days, with the appearance of dandruff - 7 days. Complications: hair becomes brittle, dry. The skin itches, reddens.
Important! Only a specialist can make an accurate diagnosis and distinguish a cosmetic defect from a serious disease. Do not self-medicate, see your doctor.
What to do, who to contact?
If no one in your family suffered from seborrhea, dandruff appeared for the first time, you can try to get rid of it.
If symptoms worsen, there is no benefit from treatment, a doctor's consultation is required.
The question often arises of which doctor to contact. Everyone recommends a trichologist.
If you live in Moscow, you should look for it. In all other cases you should see a dermatologist... The doctor will conduct an examination and prescribe treatment.
How to deal with dandruff in women?
Shampoos
Decoctions for rinsing hair are prepared from them.
Lotions based on vegetable oils, berries, fruits with the use of mustard, yeast, and bee products are also very popular.
Use is possible if only the diagnosis is made accurately. It is not possible to cure seborrhea with decoctions and herbs... But you can waste time and bring the disease to a chronic state.
Comprehensive treatment
Treatment of seborrhea (dandruff) includes a whole range of measures. It is not enough to solve the problem with the external manifestations of the disease, it is important to cure the cause of the disease.
A dermatologist, after conducting an examination and establishing an accurate diagnosis, will prescribe a treatment.
- Tableted antifungal medicines.
- Antihistamines drugs.
- Topical remedies ( shampoos, lotions).
- Preparations for stabilizing hormones.
- Immunomodulators (Dietary supplements, vitamin complexes).
- Physiotherapy:
- laser puncture;
- electroporation;
- magnetotherapy;
- darsonvalization;
- cryo massage.
If dandruff is a consequence of cosmetic errors, they must be eliminated. Otherwise, the treatment will not work.
Useful video
TV show about the causes of dandruff:
Prevention
In order for dandruff not to cause you problems, you need to follow simple rules.
- Live a healthy life.
- To refuse from bad habits.
- Monitor nutrition and weight.
- Observe the rules of hygiene.
- At the first symptoms of the disease, consult a doctor.
The rules are not complicated, it is not difficult to follow them. But your beauty and health depend on them.
Dandruff is a visible manifestation of the renewal of the epidermis of the scalp. Normally, the developmental cycle of cells is about a month and occurs imperceptibly for humans. With dandruff, it decreases to a week, and then flaking scales are clearly visible on hair and clothes. Dandruff, the causes and treatment of which will be discussed in the article, is an early sign and the mildest clinical form of seborrheic dermatitis.
Symptoms and types of dandruff
This pathology is difficult. Light dry scales of white or grayish color easily crumble from the scalp, contaminate hair, comb, clothing. Hair can become dull, greasy and thinning quickly. Quite often, with dandruff, a person is worried about itching of the scalp, but inflammatory processes, as a rule, are absent.
Against the background of large hypersecretion of which there are quite a few in an area such as the scalp, dandruff can become oily. The exfoliated particles of the epidermis are combined into fairly large yellowish flakes. They are greasy, are difficult to separate from the skin surface, and can form layers. Hair very quickly takes on a dirty look, weakens, begins to split and fall out.
Dandruff is a common problem. For some people, this pathology becomes chronic, others suffer from it only from time to time. One way or another, but every person has encountered this phenomenon at least once in his life. Attempts to get rid of the problem will not be effective if you do not find an answer to the question: "What caused dandruff?"
Fungus is the main cause of dandruff
Most people perceive dandruff as a purely cosmetic issue. Indeed, its presence is not very aesthetically pleasing and can ruin any outfit and hairstyle. However, the occurrence of dandruff primarily signals the existing disorders in the body, although it is not an independent disease. The fungal infection Pityrosporum Ovale was thought to be the main culprit for dandruff about a century ago. Dermatologists adhere to the same opinion at the present time.
Reasons for the active reproduction of the fungus
It is interesting that the notorious microorganism is a representative of the normal human microflora and can inhabit the scalp for a long time and not cause dandruff. The problem arises when the protective properties of the skin are reduced, the composition of the sebum changes, and conditions are created for the uncontrolled growth of the fungus. And this happens under the influence of a number of factors, including:
- hormonal imbalance;
- some diseases, and, as a result, decreased immunity;
- overstrain, both physical and emotional;
- malnutrition, hypovitaminosis;
- mistakes in hair and scalp care: the use of aggressive chemicals, drying with a hairdryer, hypothermia as a result of neglecting a hat in winter;
- hereditary predisposition.
Most often, it is impossible to give an unambiguous answer to the question of what caused dandruff. Any of the above reasons, and sometimes their complex, are capable of provoking its occurrence. Age is an additional factor. almost never happens, and in adolescents it can be a transitory phenomenon. There is a definite relationship between sex and the frequency of occurrence of this pathology. So, men have dandruff more often than women. In the autumn-winter period, the problem tends to worsen.
Dandruff Treatment: Lifestyle Changes
To understand what caused dandruff, sometimes it is enough to analyze your own menu and daily routine. Perhaps, it is worth subjecting the nutritional system to correction, limiting the use of fatty, spicy and fried foods, alcohol and sweets. It is necessary to consume a sufficient amount of foods rich in fiber, vitamins A and B, and fermented milk products. The normalization of the drinking regime is important.
The absence of physical overload, stress, sufficient time for sleep and rest will definitely have a positive effect on the state of the body in general and the scalp in particular.
Correct and hairy
If dandruff appears, it is worth at least for the duration of treatment to exclude aggressive hairdressing procedures: dyeing, perm, drying with a hairdryer, using hairspray and gel. You can temporarily replace chemical hair dyes with natural ones: henna and basma, walnut shells. If desired, you can also use natural styling products, based on flax seeds, gelatin, egg white, sugar.
Special attention should be paid to the issue of hygiene. It is recommended to use combs made of natural wood and replace them regularly with new ones.
Dandruff remedies
It is logical that the easiest way to provide a direct effect on the hair and scalp is with the help of shampoos, masks and lotions. It is not so important what caused dandruff: effective remedies should always have an antifungal component in their composition. Even if the fungus is not the root cause of dandruff, then most often it joins the complex of problems later. In addition, it is good if the product has regenerating and bactericidal properties, and also regulates the sebaceous glands. In this case, the impact will be complex.
Any cosmetic store has a wide selection of anti-dandruff shampoos. Consumer reviews about them are different: for some, such means helped to get rid of the problem once and for all, while others were disappointed. But, as practice shows, special medical dermatological shampoos are more effective. And the composition of such funds, which can be purchased exclusively at the pharmacy, is much more natural.
Anti-dandruff active ingredients
Most often, ketoconazole, selenium disulfide, ciclopirox, bifonazole, climbazole act as antifungal components in anti-dandruff remedies. Tar, sulfur, salicylic acid have a pronounced exfoliating effect. These substances well cleanse the scalp from skin flakes. Slow down the accelerated vital activity of cells octopyrox, tar, ichthyol. Most of the listed components have anti-inflammatory effects, normalize the activity of the sebaceous glands. It is better when the preparation contains not one, but several active ingredients, and additionally they contain natural additives: herbal extracts (nettle, burdock, chamomile) and essential oils (lavender, tea tree, eucalyptus). Sometimes these ingredients alone can fight itching and dandruff.
Features of the use of medicinal shampoos for dandruff
All the nuances of using one or another remedy for dandruff are indicated in the attached instructions. There are also some common points. As a rule, in order for the active substance in the shampoo to work as efficiently as possible, it is recommended to keep it on the scalp for a while, while doing a light massage. Treatment products for washing hair often hardly foam. This indicates their useful composition.
Shampoos for dandruff in the first month of use should be used at least twice a week, and then, for prevention, twice a month. You can alternate the pharmacy with a suitable shampoo from the cosmetic series.
There are many therapeutic ones for different tastes and wallets: Nizoral, Friderm, Fitoval, Sebazol, Dermazole, Keto Plus, Sulsena, Sebiproks, Vichy. Well, there are cosmetic ones in almost every line of shampoos of most brands known to the mass buyer. If dandruff appears, its causes and treatment is an individual question. In the absence of the opportunity to consult a specialist trichologist, choosing a therapeutic shampoo will have to be a trial and error method.
Folk remedies
Traditional medicine offers many recipes for those who are faced with such a nuisance as dandruff. What should people do who are disappointed with pharmaceuticals or fear side effects? Choose a recipe option to your liking and try, since there are many of them, and they differ in simplicity and availability.
Herbal medicine suggests using decoctions and infusions of herbs: burdock root, nettle, tansy, chamomile, calendula, coltsfoot, oak bark. They can both rinse the head after washing and rub it into the scalp.
Oil masks are often offered as effective. Olive or castor oil can be used alone or combined with lemon juice. Of course, after half an hour of exposure to such a mask, the hair must be washed with shampoo.
Another interesting recipe: take a chicken egg, add a tablespoon of vodka and kefir each and rub into the scalp. Wash off after half an hour. You can combine an egg with natural honey.
It is worth trying with fine table salt before washing. It is claimed to be one of the most effective methods for getting rid of dandruff. But you should be careful with salt if there are foci of inflammation on the scalp.
So, we must remember that such a seemingly harmless problem as dandruff should not be ignored, if only because there is a certain disorder in the body behind it. Running dandruff not only spoils the appearance, but can also lead to more serious consequences, up to baldness.
