Dealing With Dandruff
CAUSES OF DANDRUFF Although the cause of dandruff is not completely understood, it is currently theorized that one of the main causes is a breakdown of the scalps natural lipid barrier, leaving it more exposed to infection by the microscopic yeast that is commonly found in the scalp. When the yeast overgrows, it leads to an inflammatory response that kills off scalp cells at a high rate, which in turn slough off in sticky patches and flakes. The condition is identified by: – White or clear flakes on the scalp, through the hair, and on clothing. – Itchy scalp which may be red and inflamed. Some young teens find they develop dandruff when they hit puberty because their hygiene habits haven’t changed to meet the challenges of newly accelerated sebum production. Stress, poor hygiene and poor diet can make the scalp more susceptible to dandruff. High sugar foods in particular are known to exacerbate yeast infections. The hair should be brushed regularly to loosen flakes and stimulate bloo