Why is dandruff only in one place. Causes of dandruff in women. Symptoms and clinical picture of the problem

win dandruff Almost every advertisement famous brands shampoo promises to 100% help in the fight against this scourge. However, if you look at it, shampoos fight only with a consequence of more serious pathologies, which dandruff signals, but not with its causes.

What is dandruff? The reasons for its appearance

According to the medical literature, dandruff is a syndrome characterized by rapid exfoliation of small particles of skin on the scalp.

The causes of dandruff are conditionally divided into local and systemic. We list the main ones:

  • endocrine diseases;
  • disruption of the sebaceous glands;
  • lack of vitamins and minerals;
  • composition changes sebum;
  • skin diseases;
  • disorders of the heart, adrenal glands and brain;
  • malnutrition and diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

As you can see, dandruff is not just white “snow” on the head. Rather, this is the first bell of what is happening with your health. not everything is fine. Therefore, it is very important not to let this ailment take its course and in time to find out its causes and their treatment.

Types of dandruff

Dandruff is of two types - oily and dry. Both types differ in their manifestations, but often arise due to the same reasons.

With oily dandruff, the hair on the head looks like it has been poured with oil. At the same time, large scales of skin are formed on them, which immediately catch the eye. Excess sebum reduces the protective forces of the skin itself, which leads to inflammation and the appearance of pustules on the head. And it is often accompanied severe itching. And in advanced cases, promotes baldness.

Dry dandruff, on the contrary, is not associated with increased work sebaceous glands. In this case, the reasons for its occurrence are changes chemical composition sebum and reproduction of the fungus Malassezia Furfur in the scalp. Typically, both of these factors are unbalanced diet, hormonal changes body and reduced immunity.

What factors influence the occurrence of dandruff?

Why does dandruff appear more often in some and practically does not appear in others? The fact is that dandruff occurs not only due to possible problems health, but also depends on the following factors:

  • Age. In adolescents, dandruff is found much more often than in adults. This is usually associated with change hormonal background during puberty. Fluctuations in the level of hormones in the blood of boys and girls can change the consistency of sebum, which ultimately leads to dandruff. In adulthood, dandruff can also occur. However, in adults, it does not occur so often, since their hormonal background is more stable.
  • Floor. Men are more likely to experience dandruff than women. According to experts, this is due to the male sex hormone - testosterone, which prevails among the representatives of the stronger sex. Also, dandruff occurs more often in men due to the fact that their sebaceous glands slightly larger than women. And this again indicates an increased production of sebum mainly in the male half of the population.
  • Nutrition. Deficiency of vitamins and minerals in the diet, one might say, covers the head with dandruff. In particular, zinc deficiency and healthy omega-3 fats negatively affects the condition of your skin.

Treatment of dandruff with natural supplements

Dandruff is best treated with natural supplements, including herbal ingredients. Unlike shampoos and other products, dietary supplements eliminate the very cause of seborrhea, and not only fight its consequences.

Among the natural supplements for the treatment of dandruff should be highlighted:

  • Valerian P includes valerian root, possessing healing properties with skin diseases, including seborrhea. Valerian P also recommended for eczema, dermatitis and alopecia. In addition, this plant has soothing and vasodilating properties. Due to this, supplements with it are used for sleep disorders, stress and cardiovascular diseases.
  • Elecampane P contains elecampane roots effectively fighting dandruff. Elecampane improves the absorption of nutrients, thereby normalizing the condition of the scalp. However, to positive aspects supplements also include antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. The roots of the plant inhibit the activity of the fungus in the scalp and relieve inflammation.
  • P has in its composition Hypericum perforatum, which has an antibacterial effect on the skin with seborrheic dermatitis. Plus to this St. John's wort P helps to cope with depression and relieves headaches.
  • contains calendula officinalis Kalta containing a large amount flavonoids and anti-inflammatory substances. Thanks to these qualities, the supplement Calendula P It is used for dermatitis, seborrhea, baldness, acne, as well as for colds.
  • Nettle P with content stinging nettle used for hair loss, profuse dandruff and atopic (allergic) dermatitis. This plant contains a large amount of vitamins and minerals that heal the scalp and reduce the effects of toxins on it.
  • Dandelion P includes in its composition dandelion officinalis, which helps with diathesis, seborrhea, eczema, urticaria and other skin diseases. Besides, Dandelion P It is used to restore ligaments, thin the blood, as well as to prevent cancer.
  • Sage P contains sage leaves of the Kubanets variety. This plant contains an antibiotic salvin, suppressing the activity of bacteria and relieving inflammation.

Systemic treatment of dandruff

As mentioned earlier, hormonal imbalance affects the health of the scalp. Therefore, to get rid of dandruff, you need normalize the work of all endocrine system . To do this, in addition to the above supplements, take natural remedies that improve the functioning of hormonal glands.

  • Thyreo-Vit. He restores work thyroid gland s. Dandruff may be the result hypothyroidism- a disease in which the function of the thyroid gland is reduced. For the treatment and prevention of this disease is taken Tireo-Vit containing white cinquefoil, kelp and echinacea. The combined action of these components in the supplement Tireo-Vit eliminates hypothyroidism, and with it dandruff, which is a consequence of this disease.
  • Apitonus P. It normalizes the vitamin and mineral balance in organism. The work of many endocrine glands depends on vitamins and minerals. The lack of these useful substances leads to hormonal disruptions and deterioration of the skin. As a result, the production of sebum is disrupted and dandruff occurs. To get rid of this, a bioadditive is used. Apitonus P. It contains bee pollen- a storehouse of natural vitamins and minerals that restore skin condition and are an excellent prevention of seborrhea.

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How common is dandruff

Who do you think dandruff is more common in men or women? There is an opinion that men At the same time, it is interesting to note that dandruff occurs in more than half of the population at some time in their lives, and about a third - dry scalp. In general, we can say that:

  • dandruff is rare in children;
  • it can begin in adolescence;
  • it is equally intensely common in men and women from 20 to 40 years old;
  • the number of men and women suffering from dandruff is approximately equal;
  • it noticeably decreases after 50 years.

So, is it true that, in general, dandruff is more common in men than in women? No, it's not. Men seem to be less confused by this problem, which is why it seems to be more common among men. The reasons can range from their lack of concern for the problem to predominantly short hair, on which dandruff is simply easier to notice.

Dandruff or not dandruff - that is the question?

Before you start fighting dandruff. You must be sure that you have identified dandruff. Therefore, you must be able to distinguish dandruff from other dandruff-like skin conditions.

Dry scalp

Dry scalp can be caused by a lack of moisture, such as that of aircraft crew members, as they work in very dry air conditions. The flakes can be similar to dandruff, but thinner and even drier, and none of the factors that cause dandruff are present. Peeling due to dry skin usually resolves within a few days. If the skin is dry, use quality shampoo, at least twice a week, conditioner and not too hot water. The problem usually disappears quickly.

Dandruff or a more serious scalp lesion?

Now we have a serious question. There are other problems with the scalp, and although they are relatively rare, you need to be prepared for this. When you notice white flakes and red, inflamed, partially painful, bleeding and/or severely itchy scalp, you should see a dermatologist. Avoid any chemical treatments(for example, highlighting, coloring, perm), if the integrity of the skin is broken. White flakes may only resemble dandruff, but are a manifestation of another skin disease. These scalp diseases do not go away without treatment, and cosmetic dandruff shampoos do not help here.

A few examples dermatological diseases, which can be similar to dandruff in some cases: dermatitis, seborrheic eczema, psoriasis And microspore.

Examples of dermatological diseases

Inflammation of the scalp, manifested by peeling, redness. Itching may be a sign initial stage dermatitis.

seborrheic eczema

Accompanied by irritation and sometimes redness of the scalp, face, hairy parts of the body, skin folds and areas behind the ears. It can intensify with stress and illness, flare up and fade again. Seborrheic dermatitis increases in middle age and is common in older people, especially men.

A non-contagious skin disease that can occur on the knees, elbows, scalp, or throughout the body. In severe cases, the scalp becomes itchy, red, and covered with silvery scales, the affected parts are usually well-defined. This may result in hair loss. The disease can be aggravated by stress and mechanical irritation, flare up and fade again.

Microsporea

A fungal infection that appears as pink, scaly patches of skin.

Causes of dandruff

Why do some people suffer from dandruff? Maybe they don't eat right or wear a hat too often? Over the years, several causes have been identified that cause dandruff: microorganisms, disruption of the sebaceous glands, stress, diet, climate and hormonal changes.

Although many studies have been done, the exact cause of dandruff is not entirely clear. However, the results of the study lead us to the fact that the main cause of dandruff is the fungus Malassezia Furfur, and the disruption of the sebaceous glands also plays a role. Research has proven that when dandruff occurs, Malassezia Furfur is greatly increased compared to the norm.

Fungus Malassezia Furfur

Everyone has millions of microorganisms on their scalp. These microorganisms are naturally present on our body and are called natural flora. In general, they are harmless and even protect the skin. One of them is the yeast Malassezia Furfur, which is always present on the scalp, both normal and with dandruff.

Research results tell us that Malassezia Furfur microbes are on the rise on scalps with dandruff.

No one is sure that the number is increasing, but Procter & Gamble Labs have found that:

1. The microbe Malassezia Furfur is found in sebum and prefers areas of skin with many sebaceous glands. So where there is sebum, there is Malassezia Furfur;
2. When microbes multiply, they irritate the scalp and as a result, the cell renewal cycle is greatly accelerated.

Irritation of the scalp can be caused by direct or indirect causes:

Direct

The sebaceous glands provide an oily environment that provides the basis for the reproduction of Malassezia Furfur. When the amount of Malassezia Furfur increases, the number of microbes can very well cause irritation and speed up the scalp's cell renewal cycle.

Indirect

Because Malassezia Furfur recycles sebum, re-formulated sebum can let in substances that irritate the scalp and therefore speed up the cell renewal cycle.

Other causes that may cause dandruff

Are there any other reasons at all?
Yes, dandruff is very rare in children. It usually occurs at puberty and resolves with age. When puberty is reached, sebum secretion changes. Teenagers develop pimples as more sebum is produced, while older people get dryer skin due to a lack of sebum. Hormonal changes that increase sebum production (or even a diet high in fat) can contribute to dandruff.

Some people also think that hats can cause dandruff. This has not been proven, but it is possible that dandruff is more noticeable when you remove your hat. If so, then the hat is only the reason why dandruff becomes noticeable, and not leading to its formation.

Dandruff in residents different countries

People all over the world, in hot and cold countries, with wet and dry climates, are faced with dandruff. There is no clear relationship between climate and the amount of dandruff. The number of people suffering from dandruff varies from country to country, but this may be due to the fact that people wash their hair with different frequency, that dandruff is more noticeable on dark hair or because in some countries they turn to it less attention.

If there is dandruff, the fungus Malassezia Furfur is always present, but it is still not clear whether this is a primary or secondary factor in the sloughing of cells from the scalp.
Most important facts about dandruff:

  • white flakes;
  • increased cell turnover;
  • cosmetic rather than medical problem;
  • amenable to correction;
  • not contagious.

- this is a peeling of the scalp, as a result of which scales are formed due to the desquamation of the epithelium. The appearance of dandruff is a sign of various disorders in the body, since it is not an independent disease. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 70% of the population reports dandruff symptoms from time to time. When dandruff occurs, first of all, you should think about proper hair care. Excessive drying with a hair dryer, coloring and highlighting, perm etc. procedures adversely affect the condition of the hair and can cause dandruff. Treatment of dandruff consists in the rejection of these procedures, the use of hair care products specially selected by the trichologist, the passage of treatment courses of physiotherapy and cryomassage.

General information

- the appearance on the scalp of layered fatty or small dry scales of a whitish-yellowish color. Accompanied by itching of the head, the hair becomes dull, dry and brittle, or greasy and shiny. May be a manifestation of seborrhea, psoriasis, fungal skin lesions, nervous strain, deficiency of vitamin A or group B, a consequence improper care for hair, disruption gastrointestinal tract. Dandruff is a common cause of hair loss, is a pronounced cosmetic problem.

Causes of dandruff

The main cause of dandruff is a change in the condition of the scalp caused by an overgrowth of the fungal culture of Malassezia Furfur. This fungus is a facultative microflora of the scalp and in normal conditions his life is asymptomatic.

Stress, disruption of the sebaceous glands, nutritional disorders, hormonal changes such as pregnancy, puberty, menopause can provoke the activation of M. furfur. Very often, dandruff appears with improperly selected hair care. Frequent dyeing, perm, use of styling products, drying with a hairdryer, neglect of hats in the cold season and vice versa, their long-term wearing in the room lead to a shift in the microflora of the scalp. Broncho-pulmonary diseases, pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract and a decrease in immunity can also lead to the activation of the fungus. As a result of its activity, the cycle of development of epidermal cells changes, they exfoliate without having to go through it completely, which is clinically manifested by the appearance of scales. light color. Depending on the activity of the microorganism, dandruff can be observed in a certain part of the scalp, or it can be total.

Manifestations of dandruff

Dandruff does not go unnoticed and, first of all, it is aesthetic problem for patients because appearance a person with dandruff in their hair becomes untidy and unpleasant. Excessive washing and combing out dandruff with a hair dryer only exacerbate the symptoms. In people with dark hair, dandruff is more noticeable, it is located in the form of scales throughout the mass of the hairline, since when combing, the scales of the desquamated epithelium move down. Patients note itching, sometimes the scalp is macerated due to scratching. Hair becomes dull, brittle, split ends, due to the fact that the layer of dandruff interferes with the normal functioning of the hair follicles. If dandruff is widespread and no measures are taken to eliminate it, hair loss may begin. People for whom dandruff is a problem try to wear hats, dye their hair in lighter shades to make it less noticeable, which further exacerbates the condition of the scalp.

Diagnosis and treatment of dandruff

Diagnosing dandruff is quite simple, it is much more difficult to find the pathogenic link that was the trigger in the activation of M. Furfur. And, if no obvious pathologies that could provoke the appearance of dandruff were revealed at the consultation of a trichologist when interviewing a patient, then first of all they correct the mode of life and change the means for caring for hair and scalp.

It is necessary to limit the consumption of spicy, fried and fatty foods, the diet includes foods rich in fiber, B vitamins. If the cause of dandruff is a violation of the water balance, then drinking water (tea, fruit drinks, mineral water) quickly solve this problem; usually, in addition to dandruff, in this case, dry skin is observed, accompanied by peeling.

For the entire period of dandruff treatment, aggressive hairdressing procedures, blow-drying are excluded; it is recommended to use combs made of natural wood, which must be changed every few months, as wood absorbs sebum well.

Appointed medicinal products for hair care, the problem of dandruff is solved by shampoos, which include antifungal components. The latest anti-dandruff treatment programs that are used in trichology are based on the application complex therapy. The treatment program of Folten Pharma contains a treatment lotion and shampoo. The shampoo fights the fungus, and the lotion heals the scalp, exfoliating existing dandruff, additionally nourishing the scalp and moisturizing the hair. The use of such programs, which already include both keratolytic components and antifungal agents, helps to reduce the appearance of dandruff by more than 90%. If dandruff tends to appear in certain time years, then the course of treatment must be repeated to prevent its occurrence.

When medical cosmetics cannot cope with dandruff and in the presence of internal diseases that led to its appearance, physiotherapy is indicated. Cryomassage causes consistent contraction/expansion of the blood vessels of the scalp, which improves microcirculation and nourishment of the hair follicles. As a result, local immunity increases, the activity of the fungus is blocked, and the symptoms of dandruff disappear. Medicinal preparations applied to the skin after cryomassage are absorbed better.

With dandruff, darsonvalization of the scalp using a comb vacuum electrode is indicated. Irritation of the scalp causes a reflex improvement in vascular tone, which improves metabolism. High-frequency current helps to cleanse the scalp from dandruff scales, has an anti-inflammatory and cauterizing effect, which is especially important, since scratching and scratching are often observed with dandruff. In addition, darsonvalization has a calming effect on the nervous system. Considering that the presence of dandruff is a psychological problem, and constant stress only exacerbate the symptoms, physiotherapy in combination with medical cosmetics helps to eliminate both dandruff and nervous excitement.

Dandruff is not a life-threatening condition and can be corrected quite well, but the combination medical therapy And self-treatment unacceptable, as an overabundance active substances can lead to seborrhea, which is much more difficult to treat.

dandruff ( lat. squamae) - a syndrome characterized by a high rate of scaly exfoliation of skin particles over a relatively long time. Most often found on the scalp, covered with abundant hair.

To put it more simply, dandruff- These are visible, easily exfoliating particles of keratinized cells of the surface layer of the skin. Scales, depending on the type and thickness, are different shapes: bran-like, layered, leaf-shaped, rough, with pronounced peeling, firmly attached to the skin, and also different colors- whitish, yellowish, grayish-silver.

Causes of dandruff

Seborrhea ("seborrhoea", from lat. sebum - fat and Greek. rheo - flow ) (a more general concept of dandruff) is a disease caused by a disorder of sebum formation, manifested by an increase or decrease in the production of sebaceous secretion, as well as a change in the chemical composition of sebum.

The main reason for the formation of dandruff is the dysfunction of the sebaceous gland. It can be caused by improper metabolism, problems with the gastrointestinal tract, dysfunction of the pancreas and thyroid glands, or infection by a fungus, and sometimes from all at the same time. An important factor in the manifestation of dandruff is hereditary predisposition (features of the structure of the skin and its secretions).

The amount and quality of sebum depends on general condition organism (especially endocrine and nervous systems, digestive tract), sex and age, concomitant diseases etc. The course of the disease is aggravated by chronic infections (especially,), the use of large amounts of sweet and fatty foods, as well as skin pollution. The greatest amount of sebum is formed and released during puberty.

IN old age its quantity is significantly reduced. A sebaceous secretion disorder usually occurs as a result of an imbalance between estrogens (female hormones) and androgens (male hormones) towards the latter, which is more often observed between the ages of 14 and 25 years (during puberty). During this period, we notice more oily skin face, back and chest. With seborrhea, the composition of the sebaceous secretion changes mainly due to an increase in free fatty acids in it.

Allocate seborrhea oily (thick and liquid) and dry. Manifestations of seborrhea are most pronounced in areas of the skin, where the sebaceous glands are located in in large numbers: face, hairy part head, chest, back.

dense form oily seborrhea

In this case, the skin is compacted, its elasticity is reduced. The skin color is brownish-gray, the mouths of the sebaceous glands are significantly expanded, the hair is thick, coarse, and hard. Often, the excretory duct of the sebaceous gland is clogged with sloughing skin cells soaked in sebum. If this element is squeezed, then a thick sebaceous mass is squeezed out. So there is a comedone (black eel) - a horny plug. With this form of seborrhea, cysts of the sebaceous glands (atheroma) are quite common, upon opening of which a mass similar to cottage cheese is released. In case of inflammation of atheroma, it is opened, pus is released, and then a scar is formed.

Complications of this form of seborrhea are pustular skin diseases caused by and, for example,.

Liquid form of oily seborrhea

With this form of seborrhea, the skin resembles orange peel: the pores are enlarged, the skin is shiny, sebum is secreted in excess from the dilated ducts of the sebaceous glands. The hair on the head shines, looks oiled, is saturated with sebum already 2-3 days after washing, sticks together in strands. The hair is covered with thick yellowish scales of the skin that are tightly stuck around. Perhaps the appearance of itching of the skin, as well as the development of baldness. Complications in this case are all the same purulent skin diseases, but already pronounced and more severe, such as multiple boils, impetigo - damage to hair follicles with the formation of pustules in their place, which, when opened, turn into thick crusts honey color; after the disappearance of which pigment spots may remain.

Dry seborrhea

With this form of the disease, the appearance of dry skin is created, although sebum is produced, but it is viscous. It is poorly excreted from the sebaceous glands, so the surface layers of the epidermis look overdried. The skin in this case is very sensitive and easily irritated. Dandruff completely covers the scalp and hair, easily crumbles, itching occurs. Sometimes dandruff is layered on top of each other, forming crusts of a grayish-white or yellowish-gray color. Peeling develops either in the occipital-parietal region, or over the entire surface of the scalp. The hair is dry, thin, brittle, with split ends.

With dry seborrhea of ​​the scalp, a microscopic fungus is activated - "Pityrosporum ovale", he is - Malassezia Furfur, which is present in many people and does not cause disease, but under certain conditions - intense physical labor, mental stress, reduced immunity, postpartum period etc. - it becomes active, becomes dangerous to health and increases seborrhea.

Mixed seborrhea

This type of seborrhea is characterized by a combination of signs of oily and dry seborrhea, for example, the skin of the face - the forehead, nose, chin - is oily, and on the cheeks - dry. In addition, cases of mixed forms of oily seborrhea can be observed: signs of liquid form oily seborrhea, and on the scalp - thick.

It is worth mentioning separately frequent complication seborrhea of ​​the scalp seborrheic alopecia (baldness) It appears due to incorrect or completely absent treatment in approximately 25% of people. Most often, this process develops as follows. At first, hair loss is moderate and does not go beyond normal state, at which an increased secretion of sebum begins (physiological seborrhea). In some patients, physiological seborrhea disappears on its own after 2-5 years and the amount of sebum secreted becomes normal. In other cases, this process does not normalize by itself, and in the future, persistent seborrhea is formed, which eventually leads to hair loss. The life of new hair is shortened, they become thin, thin and gradually replaced by vellus hair. There is itching, soreness, discomfort and a feeling of tightening of the skin of the scalp. In women, hair thinning occurs more often in the frontal region, in contrast to men, in whom hair falls out heavily in the fronto-parietal region and thins out at the temples and back of the head. On the scalp there is a pronounced peeling (dandruff), the scales are grayish-yellow, greasy, easily separated when scraped, some of them are on the hair. When examining the skin of the scalp under a microscope, it can be seen that the root sheath of the hair, the papilla and the bulb are strongly, and sometimes irreversibly changed, and therefore it is almost impossible to renew the hair that has fallen out. In such cases, women often experience menstrual irregularities.

Seborrheic dermatitis

It is characterized not only by increased exfoliation, but also by inflammation of the skin, skin itching, areas of skin folds, behind the ears and the neck area are especially inflamed. Inflammation and peeling can also be observed in the eyebrow area. When a person begins to comb these places, an infection can easily get there. Hair with seborrheic dermatitis is usually dry, thin, brittle, with split ends.

It is better to treat dandruff under the guidance of a trichologist. in the treatment of seborrhea, you must first find out and eliminate the causes of the disease. The specialist determines the severity and selects drugs for the treatment of your particular case. Since with seborrhea there is a violation of the activity of the sebaceous gland, which is located in the lower layers of the epidermis, the treatment should be aimed at reducing sebum formation, that is, be "intradermal". Shampoo is necessary in order to wash off the sebaceous secret from the surface of the scalp, therefore, in combination with it, it is necessary to use sebum-regulating masks or lotions that are kept on the head for 20-30 minutes.

If there is no time to visit a doctor or you are used to relying on yourself in these matters, then before you buy one of the dandruff remedies, carefully study the instructions for it. So...

Medicines and components that should be present in anti-dandruff (seborrhea) preparations:

Ketoconazole (Shampoos "Nizoral", "Dermazol"). Effective against the fungus that causes dandruff, but dandruff-causing fungus may develop resistance to the substance, which explains the decrease in the effectiveness of ketoconazole with long-term use

Bifonazole (Bifon lotion). Similar in action to ketoconazole, but lingers longer in the scalp, bifonazole does not develop resistance or decrease the sensitivity of the fungus that causes dandruff.

Salicylic acid (Sulsena preparation), selenium disulfide, octopyrode. This tool removes dandruff and prevents the formation of new "flakes", but will not be able to cope with the cause of all troubles - a skin fungus.

Tar (Friederm shampoo) and sulfur. They actively exfoliate and remove cells, so you should definitely use them at the first stage of the fight against dandruff.

Important! Presence of 2-3 components from the list is desirable. You should balance the diet: limit the intake of sweet, fatty. Food should be rich in fiber, vitamins, dairy products. Also, with seborrhea, it is not recommended to dry your head with a hairdryer.

Treatment of dandruff with folk remedies

If you have dandruff, but do not rush to buy expensive drugs. Sometimes old, proven, folk remedies help to cope with dandruff. Medicinal herbs and natural ingredients included in their composition can not only relieve you of dandruff, but also strengthen your hair.

- Aspirin helps not only to effectively remove, it can save you from dandruff. Crush two aspirin tablets into powder and add to shampoo, leave the resulting mixture on your hair for two minutes. Rinse thoroughly.

- Remedy with quinine peel. It is necessary to mix thoroughly 2 teaspoons of cinchona peel, 1 teaspoon of castor oil, 2-3 drops rose oil and half a glass of wine alcohol. The resulting mixture should be rubbed into the scalp once a day.

- Beat 2-3 eggs in a small amount of water, apply the resulting mixture to the hair for a while, then rinse. This procedure prevents dandruff.

- A decoction of burdock root. 500 grams of burdock roots must be filled with 3 liters cold water, put on fire and bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer over low heat for 5-6 hours. The broth must be filtered and cooled. The resulting decoction should be moistened with the scalp every day, then rinsed off. warm water. Do not use soap or shampoo! Although the decoction takes a long time to prepare, it is beyond praise in terms of efficiency. A decoction of burdock roots not only helps to get rid of dandruff, but also strengthens the hair and regulates the sebaceous glands.

- Take 1 tablespoon of flaxseed oil daily. This oil is rich nutrients which are extremely helpful in treating dandruff.

- Dry your hair as much as possible room temperature trying to use the hair dryer as little as possible;

- consume special complex vitamins:,.

adequate sleep;

- playing sports.

To prevent dandruff, you need to use products such as shampoo or soap. Shampoo can be dry and liquid. Dermatologists advise washing your hair at least once every 5 days. However, in the case when the hair becomes oily quickly, shampoos should be used to daily care. They are more gentle than regular shampoos. Their advantage is that they only wash required amount oil from the scalp without damaging it and allowing the use of such products often enough.

Dandruff - video

Important! If dandruff persists despite all cosmetic efforts and only slightly weakens, consult a trichologist or dermatologist. Because sometimes white flakes can only resemble dandruff, but in fact be a manifestation of another skin disease: seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, asbestos lichen. With dandruff, the skin is usually not red or inflamed, and the scales are thin enough to not form a dense shell on the head.

Interesting Facts

  • According to statistics, dandruff is most often observed in individuals young age from 14 to 25 years old.
  • In 1874, French anatomist and histologist Louis Charles Malasse discovered an unknown fungus in dandruff using a microscope. This discovery made it possible to identify one of the causes of dandruff.
  • 90% of people suffering from seborrhea and dandruff also have problems with the gastrointestinal tract ( gastrointestinal tract).
  • According to statistics, every second person at least once in his life had problems with dandruff.

The structure of the skin and skin appendages

The skin serves as a barrier between the environment and the human body.

The main functions of the skin are:

  • thermoregulation (heat is consumed and released);
  • protective (protects the body from chemicals and mechanical influences );
  • excretory (exudes sebum, water and decay products);
  • immune (T-lymphocytes and Langerhans cells fight infection in the skin);
  • respiratory (skin takes in oxygen and releases carbon dioxide);
  • resorption (the skin is able to absorb various medicinal and cosmetical tools ).
The skin is made up of the following layers:
  • epidermis;
  • dermis;
  • hypodermis ( subcutaneous fat).

Epidermis

The epidermis is the surface layer of the skin, in which there is a continuous reproduction of new cells and keratinization of old ones.

The epidermis contains the following types of cells:

  • keratinocytes- produce keratin;
  • Langerhans cells- macrophages that perform a protective function;
  • melanocytes- produce melanin;
  • Merkel cells- tactile cells.

Description of the layers of the epidermis

Layer name Layer Description
Basal The basal layer consists of a single row of cells that are located directly on the border with the dermis. The cells of this layer are characterized by the fact that they continuously multiply, forming new skin cells. Also, the cells of the basal layer contain the pigment melanin, which determines the color of the skin, protects it from the effects of ultraviolet rays and causes a tanning effect. The existing Merkel cells in the basal layer are involved in the implementation of skin sensitivity.
prickly In the spinous layer, the cells are arranged in three to eight rows. A feature of this layer is that new skin cells formed in the basal layer are fastened here with cytoplasmic outgrowths.
Grainy The granular layer consists of one to five rows of closely adjacent cells. After the spiny layer, the cells, held together by special outgrowths, begin the process of keratinization here. This layer also contains epidermal macrophages - these are cells whose main function is to fight infection that enters the skin.
Brilliant The shiny layer is observed on such areas of the body as the palms and feet, where the epidermis layer is quite dense. Also in this layer, the process of keratinization of epithelial cells continues.

Horny

The stratum corneum is in direct contact with the environment and carries out barrier function preventing microbial penetration into the skin. This layer consists of keratinized cells, tightly adjacent to each other and containing keratin ( protein substance).

Update upper layers skin on the scalp through discreet exfoliation dead cells happens every three to four weeks, which is normal physiological process. In people suffering from dandruff, the rate of cell death increases due to increased production of new skin cells, that is, in stratum corneum significant increase in the process of keratinization of cells. As a result, dead cells accumulate, and their frequent exfoliation occurs. For this reason, dry dandruff develops in most cases.

Dermis

The dermis is represented by connective tissue and consists of two layers.

This layer of the skin contains sebaceous glands, the increased work of which makes it difficult to exfoliate dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, which can later lead to the formation of dandruff. Sebum, not allowing already dead skin particles to fall off, eventually leads to the formation of conglomerates ( sticky pieces of keratinized skin). For this reason, oily dandruff develops in most cases.

Hypodermis

Subcutaneous fat is represented by fatty accumulations and connective tissue. This layer provides mobile attachment of the skin to organs and tissues, and also creates additional protection body from mechanical damage.

Skin appendages

Skin appendages include:
  • Sebaceous glands. They produce a secret - sebum, which lubricates the hair and protects the skin.
  • Sweat glands. They release water and decay products, and are also an important component in the process of thermoregulation.
  • Hair. They are derivatives of the epidermis and cover almost the entire body.
  • Nails. nail bed covers the nail plate, consisting of horny substance.

Causes of dandruff

The main reasons for the development of dandruff are:
  • violation of the glands of the skin;
  • hormonal imbalance;
  • fungus;

Violation of the glands of the skin

Violation of the glands of the skin can occur due to the following reasons:
  • Nervous stress. Excitement provokes increased productivity of the sebaceous glands.
  • Heavy and fatty foods. Leads to a change in the composition of sebum.
  • Hot food. Hot causes a rush of blood to the stomach, resulting in increased work of the sebaceous glands and skin.
  • Hormonal disbalance. It entails a change in the work of the sebaceous glands, as well as a change in the consistency of sebum.
These factors, increasing the work of the sebaceous glands, contribute to the formation or exacerbation of dandruff.

Hormonal imbalance

The skin-hair complex consists of hair bulb, sebaceous and sweat glands, which release lubricant ( sebum), which helps exfoliate dead skin particles. An increase in androgen levels ( a group of hormones produced by the testes and ovaries) in men or women provokes an increase in sebum production. These violations lead to a change in the quality of sebum, which ceases to be fluid, but becomes thicker.

Thick sebum provokes gluing of keratinized skin particles, preventing them from falling off, which subsequently leads to their exfoliation in layers ( dandruff).
A violation of the secretion and a change in the consistency of sebum can lead to the development of a disease such as seborrhea.

With seborrhea, the following symptoms can be observed:

  • itching of the scalp;
  • rashes on the skin in the form of redness, covered with greasy or dry scales that are capable of merging;
  • pustules on the scalp.


Also, the causes of seborrhea can be:

  • diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
  • endocrine disorders;
  • hypovitaminosis;
  • the presence of chronic foci of infection in the body.

Fungus

Human skin is covered with an invisible water-lipid lubricant that has an acidic environment. This lubricant protects the body from many microbes that sit on the surface of the skin, destroying them. However, if these microbes enter the skin, the process of rejection begins, that is, the body begins to intensively produce sebum. The defense mechanism hinders the process of exfoliation of scales from the surface of the skin, which subsequently leads to dandruff.

With an increase in sebum production, fungi play an important role ( Pityrosporum Ovale), which normally live on the surface of the skin, they are in given period begin to multiply and grow with greater intensity. The sensitivity of the scalp becomes aggravated to the waste products of the fungus, which results in fungal infection skin. Subsequently, the fungi, covered with sebum and dead scales, form plaques, which, when peeled off, cause itching and constant dandruff.

Normally, 45% of the fungal flora is located on the surface of the human head, however, if the sebaceous glands are disturbed this indicator can increase up to 70%.

It should be noted that these fungi have a beneficial effect on the functioning of the skin, since they are involved in maintaining its microflora, protecting it from the penetration of pathogenic bacteria and viruses. Fungi also maintain a normal pH ( acid-base balance) skin.

Skin diseases

Dandruff, for example, can be early sign psoriasis. This disease is autoimmune and consists in the fact that one's own immune cells ( macrophages) affect the superficial layers of the skin, causing their necrosis. This phenomenon leads to exfoliation of the skin in large layers in the form of dandruff. However, there are differences that allow you to quickly determine the presence of psoriasis in a person, for example, the appearance of psoriatic plaques of a reddish color.

Predisposing factors

There are also predisposing factors that can trigger the development of dandruff.

Endogenous factors:

  • beriberi ( e.g. vitamin A deficiency);
  • decrease in the body's defenses ( for example, after suffering an acute respiratory viral infection (ARVI));
  • intestinal dysbacteriosis e.g. after treatment with antibiotics);
  • genetic predisposition ( if parents have dandruff).
Exogenous factors:
  • washing your hair daily with the wrong shampoo ( the natural lubricant that coats the scalp is washed off);
  • regular use hot air dryer will dry out the skin the hair dryer should be kept at a distance of 30 cm from the hair and use a gentle setting);
  • frequent stress ( stimulate the sebaceous glands);
  • smoking ( chemical substances found in tobacco, contribute to the weakening of the body's defenses);
  • lack of vitamins and minerals in the body can lead to dry skin or increased sebaceous glands);
  • chronic fatigue ( leads to a weakening of the immune system);
  • frequent staining hair ( leads to damage and development of dry skin).

In what areas is dandruff more common?

Most often, dandruff appears on the scalp in the occipital-parietal region, since in this place there is an increased secretion of sebum. Also, the occurrence of dandruff in this area may be due to an increase in the number of the fungus Pityrosporum Ovale. This fungus is opportunistic and is asymptomatic on the skin in most people ( in the places where largest cluster sebaceous glands).


Also, dandruff can be observed in the following areas:
  • brows;
  • eyelashes;
  • armpit;
  • pubis.

What is dandruff?

Dandruff is made up of dead skin cells that, due to excessive exfoliation, appear as greyish-white flakes.

Normally, a person undergoes a process of death within a month. a certain amount cells skin. In people suffering from dandruff, this process is observed much more often, approximately every ten days. This is due to a decrease or, conversely, an increase in sebum production.


Depending on the type of hair, dandruff is usually divided into two types:

  • dry dandruff;
  • oily dandruff.

Dry dandruff

oily dandruff

Dandruff treatment

Currently, there is a wide range of drugs for dandruff, however, it should be noted that such drugs must be selected individually, depending on the clinical picture and the cause of dandruff.

The products used in the masks below have the following healing properties:

  • Egg yolk contains beta-keratin, rich in fatty acids that deeply nourish and moisturize the scalp.
  • Olive oil nourishes and moisturizes the skin.
  • Lemon juice stabilizes the sebaceous glands and acid-base balance, also has a keratolytic effect, helping to exfoliate dead skin particles.
  • Kefir. The composition of kefir includes vitamins of group B, A, calcium and protein, which moisturize, nourish the scalp, and also strengthen the hair roots.
  • Castor oil moisturizes and strengthens hair, promotes skin exfoliation.

  1. To prepare the mask, you need to take one egg yolk, a tablespoon olive oil, one teaspoon of honey and one teaspoon lemon juice. All ingredients must be thoroughly mixed and then rubbed into the scalp along the parting lines. After applying the mask, the head should be covered with a cap and kept for forty minutes, after which it is necessary to wash the head. This mask is recommended to be used twice a week for one month.
  1. To prepare the mask, you will need four tablespoons of kefir, one tablespoon of olive oil and one egg yolk. All ingredients must be thoroughly mixed, and then applied to the scalp ( before washing hair) and leave for an hour and a half. This mask should be applied twice a week for one and a half to two months.
  1. At two egg yolks you need to add one tablespoon of castor oil and lemon juice, then mix thoroughly. The prepared mask should be applied to the scalp ( before washing hair) for one hour twice a week. The duration of treatment is one to one and a half months.
Lotions
  • It is necessary to mix salicylic acid ( two grams), Castor oil (five grams) and vodka ( one hundred grams). The prepared lotion should be applied to the scalp for one and a half to two hours before washing your hair. This remedy should be used every other day until complete recovery.
  • Birch tar (five grams), Castor oil ( ten grams) and vodka ( one hundred grams) should be mixed and applied to the skin two hours before shampooing. This lotion should be applied two to three times a week until complete recovery.
These products will help eliminate oiliness, itching of the head, and will also help exfoliate the skin.

Decoctions

Decoction name Therapeutic action Cooking method Application
beetroot juice rich in vitamin C, beta-carotene, reduces inflammatory process It is necessary to cook beets, after which the resulting beetroot juice you should rinse your hair. This decoction should be used two to three times a week for a month.
Nettle decoction contains vitamin A and E, strengthens hair, normalizes the sebaceous glands Add two tablespoons of dry nettle to 400 ml hot water and put on a slow fire for fifteen to twenty minutes. After boiling, the broth must be filtered and cooled. Rinse your hair with the prepared product after washing your hair twice a week. The duration of treatment is one to two months.
Decoction of calendula eliminates dandruff, strengthens hair, reduces oiliness of hair Two tablespoons of calendula must be poured with 400 ml of hot water, then put on a slow fire for fifteen minutes. After cooking, the resulting broth must be filtered and cooled. Ready decoction should rinse your hair after washing your hair once or twice a week for one to one and a half months.

Dandruff Prevention

Allocate following methods dandruff prevention:
  • hygiene of the scalp;
  • protection of the scalp from exposure to high and low temperatures;
  • diet and drinking plenty of water;
  • stress prevention and immunity strengthening.

Hygiene of the scalp

To maintain skin hygiene and hairline the following recommendations must be observed:
  • remember that such items and personal items as a comb, washcloth, as well as hats are intended exclusively for individual use;
  • it is necessary to keep all personal hygiene items clean and replace them as they wear out;
  • shampoos and cosmetics should be selected according to the type of hair;
  • it is recommended to wash your hair as it gets dirty;
  • it is not recommended to wash your hair very much hot water, since heat contributes to increased production of sebum;
  • while drying hair, it is necessary to set the sparing mode on the devices ( warm air).
As a preventive measure, it is recommended to use the following remedies for dandruff:
  1. Shampoo Nizoral. This product contains an antifungal agent ( ketoconazole).
Note: any preventive shampoos should be used no more than once every two weeks.
  1. Sulsena paste 2%. The composition of the paste includes a sulfur compound, as well as useful additives, due to which the function of fatty secretion of the skin is normalized. The paste must be rubbed in a circular motion into the hair roots. After a ten-minute break, the product should be washed off with warm water. The procedure is recommended to be carried out once a week.
Note: Wash your hair with shampoo before applying the paste.

Protecting the scalp from high and low temperatures

Heat and direct Sun rays the same way as cold negatively affect the condition of the scalp, thereby provoking the occurrence of dandruff. As a preventive measure in this case, it is recommended to wear seasonal hats.

Diet and drinking plenty of water

Quality and good nutrition plays a key role in the prevention of many skin diseases, including the manifestation of dandruff.

To avoid any pathological changes on the part of the skin, it is recommended to use those foods that contain enough vitamins and minerals.

Vitamins and minerals Food having an effect
Vitamin B6 walnuts fish, liver, bananas
Protects the skin from adverse effects environment and also help to moisturize the skin.
Vitamin PP cheese, tomatoes, cabbage Restores protective functions skin.
Zinc nuts, seeds, beef Participates in the process of renewal of skin cells.
Calcium legumes, greens, dairy and dairy products Participates in the secretion of the sebaceous glands
With a lack of calcium, the elasticity of the skin decreases.

It is also necessary to reduce the intake of those foods that can contribute to dandruff. For example, fatty, sweet, spicy and salty foods.

Concerning plentiful drink, this is due to the fact that a sufficient amount of fluid entering the body contributes to the normalization of metabolism.

Prevention of stress and strengthening of immunity

Weak immunity and stressful situations can negatively affect the work of the sebaceous glands, as well as the quality of the skin, making it drier. These factors can contribute to the development of dandruff. For this reason, avoid stressful situations and spend as much free time outdoors as possible.