Many of us notice the white flakes on shoulders after combing the hair. These are the result of a skin condition in which white flakes that are dry and itchy are seen on the scalp. This is commonly called dandruff and 50% of the world’s population is affected by it. Does dandruff cause hair loss? It is a commonly asked question. It should be known that it is not the dandruff that causes hair loss, but its link to hair loss lies behind its underlying cause.
Link between dandruff and hair loss
Hair loss is common in every person, if someone is losing 50-100 strands daily then it is considered normal but losing more than that is a matter of concern. Hair shedding has many causes, here you find the answer i.e. Does dandruff cause hair loss? It is caused by infection of the scalp that causes constant itching as a result of which the person suffering from it scratches the scalp causing damage to hair follicles that paves the path to hair fall. It is neither a contagious and serious disease nor it can cause other health disorders. It is known as ‘cosmetic disease’ by many people. But if this condition is neglected for a long period of time then it can lead to a condition called pityriasis amiantacea, a skin condition causing excessive scale deposit on scalp disturbing hair growth and finally temporary hair loss.
Diagnosis
It is important to diagnose its underlying cause to find does dandruff cause hair loss? Proper diagnosis can lead to its effective treatment.
Scalp psoriasis:
An autoimmune disease causing red skin patches with silvery scales
Lichen planopilaris:
More prevalent in females and is associated with flaky and dry rash on scalp causing hair loss in clumps
Seborrheic Dermatitis:
Rash like skin infection with red, oily and scaly appearance with skin flakes
Dry skin:
Small flakes are seen that are not associated with infection
Malassezia:
A fungus that causes irritation of the scalp’s skin and leads to extra skin cell’s growth. These cells when died cause dandruff
Contact Dermatitis:
Red, flaky scalp is seen after using certain shampoos and chemicals
How to prevent hair loss from Dandruff
Medicated shampoo: Shampoos containing salicylic acid pyrithione zinc, ketoconazole and selenium sulfide
Moisturize your scalp: Use hydrating conditioners and coconut oil
Manage stress: It is reported that stress has a direct effect on your immune system and it weakens your immunity as a result of which the person becomes more prone to fungal infection that causes it. By reducing stress through yoga and relaxation techniques, one can manage stress and have a control on it
Avoid chemical application to hair: Many hair products include irritating chemicals including bleach, formaldehyde and detergents that can cause contact dermatitis which is a cause of dandruff
Natural remedies: The most effective natural home remedies include applying tea tree oil, apple cider vinegar and aloe Vera gel to hair to remove white flakes
The hair loss from dandruff can be controlled once you rectified it. It needs some time to grow back the hair lost, depending upon your diet taken, hair care routine and precautionary measures taken.
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Evidence from literature
Several researches were conducted to find Does dandruff cause hair loss? In literature it was found that there is no direct link of it with hair loss but its causative factors cause hair shedding. It accelerates hair thinning due to itching and scratching scalp and it is a temporary loss of hair.
In a study conducted on individuals with different scalp conditions and focused on characteristics of different hair samples, it was found that unhealthy scalp is a major source to give unhealthy hair and results of this study can be linked to found the answer of Does dandruff cause hair loss? Thus clearly concluding that unhealthy scalp with certain medical conditions e.g. seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis cause oxidative stress to scalp leading to unhealthy hair growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best dandruff treatment in Lahore Pakistan?
There are various treatments depending upon severity of the condition. Normally anti fungal shampoo or tar containing shampoo is an effective option to control it.
Who is the best specialist for dandruff treatment in Lahore Pakistan?
If your problem is not controlled by the over the counter product then call us or get an appointment from our specialist for free check up and consultation by calling +92-333-430-9999