FORFORA
Dandruff is a scalp problem that can occur between the ages of 10 and 25. It may improve between the ages of 45 and 55 or may persist throughout old age.
It is caused by an accelerated turnover of epidermal cells that, due to the increased rate of production, fail to reach complete maturation before detaching. White-greyish scales (clusters of horny cells) are formed, localised in patches or more often distributed diffusely over the scalp. They accumulate in abundance and as they detach they are visible along the hair shafts and on clothing, creating considerable aesthetic discomfort.
The size of the scales varies from subject to subject and they usually occur at the temples, forehead and ears. The disorder is almost always subject to seasonality and manifests itself with greater intensity in the cold seasons, then subsides during the summer.
The causes of dandruff are still not entirely clear.
Some studies hypothesise a hormonal influence, in particular male hormones (androgens), which are also present to a lesser extent in women, and others believe that the digestive system, in particular the liver, is responsible. Factors related to nutrition, fat metabolism and psychological or pharmacological problems.
All people can suffer from dandruff at some particular time in their lives.
Scientifically proven is the presence in massive quantities on the skin and in the hair of dandruff sufferers of Pityrosporum ovale, Malassezia Furfur and Streptococcus, i.e. fungi and bacteria.
It is not yet known whether it is fungi and bacteria that are responsible for dandruff or whether a scalp rich in dandruff provides a favourable breeding ground for these microorganisms.
Dandruff may be associated with other scalp problems, such as seborrhoea, giving rise to a variety of nuances of the problem: the most frequently encountered is seborrhoeic dermatitis.
Two different types of dandruff can be distinguished:
- Dry or simple dandruffoften caused by a mild dermatitis in which the scalp is covered with very fine, easily detachable, small scales that dust clothes, sometimes with the presence of itching.
- An oily dandruff in which the scalp is covered with large, thick, greasy, yellowish scales that adhere to an often irritated, reddened and oozing scalp, with the presence of itching, a peculiar rancid smell and hair loss. It is very unsightly. This type of dandruff is also present in people suffering from contact eczema or seborrhoeic dermatitis.
Today, fortunately, there are many treatments to help the dandruff problem: mud baths, peelings, shampoos and/or lotions. They may contain germicidal substances to combat microorganisms, in combination with keratolytic substances to eliminate dead cells and limit subsequent desquamation, slowing down the hyperproduction of scales.
Contacting a qualified professional is always the best choice when dealing with concerns related to the health of your skin and hair. Whether you are uncertain about the nature of any abnormalities or simply want confirmation, an expert can make all the difference. A timely and accurate diagnosis is a crucial step for the well-being of your skin and hair, providing you with peace of mind and an appropriate treatment plan.
