Dandruff

It is natural for skin to shed off the surface with time as it is replaced by new skin underneath. But, shedding off of scalp with abnormally high rate in response to unsuitable surrounding environment of the shed site is what is called dandruff in medicine. Sudden change in temperature, i.e. from hot to cold or invasion by any parasite might trigger the process.

CAUSES: Glands situated in the scalp secrete sebum, a secretion that is known to increase skin shedding. Parasitic invasion by certain fungi or bacteria and increase in the population of normally occurring fungi in the scalp are the chief causes. Temperature change which in turn could lead to increased or decreased sweating of scalp is also a vital factor. Diseases like eczema and psoriasis and dryness of skin with low usage of shampoo are other causes of dandruff

RISK FACTORS: The disease is accelerated on inadequate application of oil on the skin. Risk factors of the disease are also associated with sex as males have more sebum producing glands. People having inadequate dietary supply of vitamin-D and zinc could render their scalp nourishment deficient hence increased dandruff. Reduced immunity of the body leads of increased fungal and bacterial population on the skin thus increasing dandruff further. The disease might be linked with seborrhoeic dermatitis as the latter is defined on a broader spectrum of body sites susceptible to flaking off of superficial skin.

SYMPTOMS: Dandruff victims show increased quantity of skin flakes in their hair often accompanied by itching and irritation. Symptoms are more likely to be exaggerated in the season of winter.