 | Kim McIntosh, a former graduate of Xenon Int'l. School of Hair Design serves as the school’s Director and is a shareholder in the business. She holds a Cosmetology, Esthetics and Instructor's license in Kansas and Nebraska. She has worked behind the chair and managed some of the most prominent salons in the Wichita area. As an educator, her primary goal has been to provide the beauty industry with successful licensed professionals. Having served in the past as Second Vice-President on the Board of Directors for the National Cosmetology Association of Kansas, Kim is currently a Director on the national board for the American Association of Cosmetology Schools. You may contact Kim at (316) 943-5516. |
Beauty & Fashion
2005-02-01 09:22:00
What causes dandruff?
ANSWER: Dandruff is a common disorder of the scalp, a condition that affects men and women of all ages and races. Why does it occur? Facts and opinions on the cause of dandruff are varied. Dandruff is not a sign of poor hygiene, although poor hygiene can cause the condition. There are different types of dandruff, each one with its own characteristics. Dandruff is not to be confused with dry scalp or the normal flaking off of dead skin cells on the scalp. Each day millions of skin cells die and are replaced. This is also true of the scalp. However, these flakes of dead scalp cells should not be mistaken for dandruff. Dandruff is a disorder of the scalp, with the medical name pityriasis (pronounced pity-rye-a-sis). The exact cause of dandruff is unclear, as there may be more than one cause. One theory is that dandruff is caused by a bacterial infection. Some believe that dandruff may be hereditary. Dandruff occurs when the scalp sheds its epithelial cells, which are the cells on the surface. Under normal conditions, these cells freely fall from the scalp. With dandruff, the epithelial cells accumulate on the scalp near the roots of the hair. If dandruff is neglected for too long it may lead to premature hair loss. It is advisable to treat the condition as soon as it is noticed to avoid worsening. Many things tend to increase the severity of dandruff, such as harsh shampoos, improper diet, poor scalp circulation, and general uncleanliness. Among the treatments available are medicated shampoos and scalp treatments. Both of these remedies should be readily available through a professional salon. It is also believed that some forms of dandruff may be contagious, so it is a good idea to wash and clean any brushes or combs that come in contact with the scalp. There are two main types of dandruff. Pityriasis capitus simplex is referred to as dry dandruff. This is the type most people are familiar with, leaving those embarrassing flakes on your shoulders. Dry dandruff is recognizable by itching of the scalp and small white-colored scales. Pityriasis steatoides is the second type of dandruff. This is referred to as waxy dandruff. One of the characteristics of steatoides dandruff is that the flakes are yellowish in color and have a greasy consistency. This occurs when the dead scalp cells mix with sebum, the oil that is secreted by the skin and scalp. The scales then clump together and stick to the scalp in patches. Waxy dandruff may be caused by an overactive sebaceous gland. This is the same gland responsible for greasy hair and oily skin. The treatments for each type of dandruff vary. For dry dandruff, you might want to book regular appointments at your salon for a scalp treatment. This procedure involves the removal of flakes from the scalp and then a scalp massage. The massage has two purposes. First, it increases circulation and blood flow to the scalp. Second, it helps moisturize the scalp. These treatments are a good idea even if you have just a few flakes caused by dry scalp. Avoid using store-bought shampoos like Head and Shoulders. These products may actually worsen the condition. Store-bought shampoos contain alcohol, which has a drying effect on the skin and hair. If your flakes are caused by a dry scalp, why would you put something on the hair that would make the scalp even drier? To treat the waxy type of dandruff, you have to avoid over stimulating the sebaceous glands. This takes a shampoo that has some drying effects on the hair. You may want to consult a dermatologist and get a prescription strength shampoo from the pharmacist or drug store. Tea tree oil may also be beneficial. Tea tree oil acts as an astringent, drying up excess sebum and improving blood flow and circulation. It also soothes the itching associated with dandruff. Dandruff is a medical condition, so do not hesitate to see a physician if you feel that your condition cannot be easily treated by yourself. If dandruff is treated early, the symptoms will be greatly diminished, if not eliminated. A few flakes are normal, but an excessive amount of flakes or itching should trigger some warning signs. Your hairstylist will be able to tell the difference between dandruff and normal shedding of the skin.
