Why is dandruff called dandruff

Dandruff may make your scalp itchy, too. Dandruff is actually quite tricky to define because it overlaps with seborrheic dermatitis a chronic form of eczema and other skin conditions that lead to a scaly scalp. Taking extended breaks can lead to a buildup of oil that can lead to dandruff. Other times, it may be one of these conditions:. Skin of Color Society. This professional dermatologic organization is dedicated to promoting awareness of and excellence within the dermatological care of skin of color.

SCS offers a Find a Doctor database to help those of Asian, Hispanic or Latino, African, Native American, and Pacific Island descent find local dermatologists who are especially knowledgeable about their skin concerns. American Academy of Dermatology.

The AAD is the largest dermatology group in the United States and its website is full of resources, tips, and more. Curious how to ease your itchy skin? Check out their Everyday Care section. Craving some insider secrets to tackle your rosacea? Go to the areas dedicated to Parents and Kids. By subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Health Topics. Health Tools. Reviewed: December 18, Medically Reviewed.

The big tip-off that an individual may have dandruff are the telltale patches of white flakes on the scalp, made up of dead skin, that come loose in your hair. According to the Merck Manual , other signs include:. SD is a chronic form of eczema that impacts areas of the body that secrete the most sebum, or oil, notes the National Eczema Association.

People with oily skin are often more prone to dandruff. The reason: A yeast called Malassezia globosa feeds on oils on the scalp.

For those without dandruff, it takes a whole month for new skin cells on the scalp to mature, die, and shed. But for those with dandruff, this process occurs in a mere two to seven days, according to a report in the Journal of Medical Chemistry. Still, it's important to note that while M. Contact Dermatitis Contact dermatitis is skin irritation caused by either an allergen or an irritant, resulting in an itchy, possibly painful rash.

And in the case of dandruff, that reaction is on the scalp. This generally occurs due to hair-care products or dyes, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association. Dry Skin If cold winter air dries out your skin all over, including your scalp, then dry skin may be the cause of your dandruff. When dry skin causes dandruff, the flakes are usually smaller and less oily than the flakes caused by SD, notes PIH Health.

In addition, cold and dry climates can also worsen SD, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Age Dandruff often begins at puberty and peaks around age 20, becoming far less prevalent among folks over 50 years old, according to a review published in December in the Journal of Clinical and Investigative Dermatology.

Sex Androgen hormones, such as testosterone, stimulate activity in the sebaceous glands. More oil means an increased chance of an inflammatory reaction and dandruff. Men are more frequently affected by dandruff than women. Neurologic and Psychiatric Conditions Parkinson's disease , Alzheimer's disease , epilepsy , traumatic brain injury , and spinal cord injury are among the conditions that elevate one's risk of SD, including dandruff.

History of Other Skin Disorders Having had eczema, rosacea , psoriasis , or acne can trigger or worsen seborrheic dermatitis. A dermatologist can usually diagnose dandruff simply by looking at your scalp. But, it can also happen from some hair products that you might be using on your scalp that may be stripping your scalp of its natural oils.

If you live in a cold and dry climate, you may also be more susceptible to having a dry scalp. Treating a dry scalp usually involves switching to a gentle, unmedicated shampoo that contains as few additives as possible that may remove moisture from your scalp. The good news is that many cases of dandruff can be treated effectively with over-the-counter OTC shampoos and other lifestyle measures.

If your dandruff is particularly stubborn or itchy, you may have psoriasis, eczema, or a true fungal infection. Your doctor can help. The itching and flaking often respond well to OTC shampoos and treatments.

Keep trying different brands and types until you find something that works for you. Is dandruff contagious? What is the cause? We've got answers to your most pressing questions about dandruff. Dandruff and psoriasis can both cause dry, flaky skin on your scalp. Learn how to identify if you have dandruff or psoriasis.

Does dandruff actually cause hair loss? We'll go over the relationship between these two conditions. You'll also learn about things you can do to….

Coconut oil is considered an all-inclusive alternative skin care product. Moisture is at its core, which makes this oil appealing for dry skin…. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Symptoms and causes How to get rid of it? Show references Borda LJ, et al. Seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff: A comprehensive review. Journal of Clinical and Investigative Dermatology. Dandruff: How to treat.

American Academy of Dermatology. Accessed July 12, Tea tree oil. Natural Medicines Database. Accessed June 7, Sasseville D. Seborrheic dermatitis in adolescents and adults. Kermott CA, et al. Time; American Osteopathic College of Dermatology.

Kang S, et al. Cosmeceuticals and skin care in dermatology.