What causes dandruff? Many people have many theories on this. Before you know what causes dandruff, you must understand what dandruff is and is not. Most people consider any flaking from the scalp to be dandruff. Not all flakes are dandruff. Only a qualified doctor can make a true diagnosis. If you will continue reading, you will understand the differences and what dandruff truly is.
Dandruff is not dry scalp. Dry scalp is caused by a lack of oil on the scalp leading to dry flakes. Just like the rest of your body, the scalp will start to flake when it lacks oil. This can be treated by using a moisturizing shampoo or conditioner.
Other conditions that can be confused with true dandruff are seborrhoeic dermatitis, psoriasis, fungal infections, allergies, or head lice. Don’t let these conditions fool you into thinking that you have simple dandruff.
Now that you know what dandruff isn’t lets look at the latest research into what dandruff is. Dandruff is now considered to be an overgrowth of a fungus(Malassezia furfur or Pityrosporum ovale). Don’t worry, this is a natural fungus that has just gotten out of control on your scalp. This fungus actually serves the purpose of digesting the excess oil on your scalp.
This fungus produces an acid (oleic acid) that causes irritation to the scalp. This irritation causes the natural shedding process to speed up and produce flakes.
Now that you know what causes dandruff, you are well on your way to treating dandruff. If you are not absolutely sure that it is simple dandruff, you should first schedule an appointment with your doctor. Only a qualified doctor can make the diagnosis that it is only dandruff.
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