What causes dandruff : Do You Really Understand It?

It is the most common scalp related problems. The precise cause is still unknown but what is known is that there are many factors that trigger dandruff.

Following are some of the many possible explanations of what causes Dandruff:

Causes of Dandruff 1- Dry skin.

During winter when climate is cold and rooms are over heated skin becomes dry and flaky. These flakes from dry scalp are generally smaller than the flakes that fall of oil skins as explained below.

Causes of Dandruff 2- Irritated, Oily Skin (Seborrheic Dermatitis).

This skin condition produces red, greasy skin covered with flaky white or yellow scales. In addition to scalp it affects eyebrows, the sides of nose and the backs of ears, breastbone groin area, and armpits areas that are rich in oil glands.

Causes of Dandruff 3- Infrequent Washing of Scalp.

Regular washing of hair and scalp is important. If not washed regularly oils and skin cells from the scalp can build up causing dandruff.

Causes of Dandruff 4- Psoriasis.

Normally Psoriasis occurs on knees, elbows and trunk but it can also affect scalp. Psoriasis means Eczema of scalp. If you get eczema on scalp, you could develop dandruff.

Causes of Dandruff 5- Malassezia.

Malassezia (A yeast-like fungus) mostly lives on the scalps without causing problems. But sometimes when it grows out of control can irritate the skin on the scalp. Scratching in that case cause more skin cells to grow. When these cells die and fall off, they make white flakes. The reasons for Malassezia over activeness are not yet understood.

All the above are mainly triggers. Controlling and treating becomes easier once the exact trigger is identified.

Learn more on symptoms, prevention methods and home remedies in the other related articles.