What makes dandruff worse

Other people find that hot, humid weather in the summer makes their dandruff worse, possible because their scalps are oilier with sweat. And yes, some people deal with dandruff year-round.

As we mentioned, there are many conditions that can cause dandruff-like flaking. If you notice flakes on your scalp or in your hair, it could be due to one of the following:. Seborrheic dermatitis is another condition that can cause dandruff and flaking of the scalp. It often appears as red, swollen, greasy rash that may have white or yellow flakes or crust. Also, as Dr. Kim notes, seborrheic dermatitis is not just limited to the scalp; you can find flaky patches in your brows, beard, ears, chest, and other skin folds.

In either case it typically causes a red rash that may itch, burn, and swell. It can also cause the skin to become itchy and dry, possibly resulting in peeling or flaking. Scalp psoriasis is another dandruff-like issue, but it looks a little different.

Psoriasis an autoimmune condition that results in thick, scaly, silvery patches of skin that can also itch and flake. Eczema is a general term that describes a few different conditions. The most common form of eczema, atopic dermatitis, causes dry, red, itchy patches of skin that can flake. Atopic dermatitis is most often seen on places like your hands, ankles, feet, knees, and elbows. But it can definitely also affect the scalp. Essentially, what looks like dandruff could be many different things.

If you have run-of-the-mill dandruff or mild seborrheic dermatitis , you should start with an over-the-counter anti-dandruff shampoo. These contain antifungal ingredients like ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, or pyrithione zinc, which can help manage the yeast that drives dandruff. That might mean switching to a gentle, fragrance- and sulfate-free shampoo and possibly using an occasional deeply moisturizing conditioner or hair mask.

If your flakes are caused by a contact dermatitis reaction, be sure to use gentle shampoos and conditioners that will keep your scalp moisturized without aggravating it while it heals.

Check out the above recommendations for a dry scalp. If your scalp feels really sensitive, you might also need to reduce the frequency of your shampooing for the time being. If your dandruff is more severe, intensely itchy, or causes oozing or bleeding when you scratch at it, those are signs it may be due to a more serious condition, like eczema, psoriasis, or a severe case of seborrheic dermatitis.

They may recommend using treatments like a tar-based shampoo, products containing salicylic acid, light therapy, or prescription medications. Ultimately, remember that dandruff is a very common issue with many possible causes. Many people are sensitive to oleic acid. The body then reacts to this acid by increasing the speed at which skin cells renew.

It is an attempt to rid the scalp of the irritant and can cause flakes. The flakes are dead skin cells that visibly accumulate on the scalp or even shoulders. This is why a dandruff shampoo and conditioner can be so useful in treating dandruff. Regular shampoos struggle to clean out all the buildup that causes dandruff.

Medical shampoos have the proper ingredients to do that. If dry skin is causing your dandruff, it can be easy to tell because other parts of your body will likely be dry as well. Dry skin can worsen throughout the year due to temperature, and the same goes for your scalp as well. However, a dry scalp that causes dandruff is treatable, similar to dry skin anywhere else. You simply need to moisturize, especially as you are shampooing more often.

There are several hair products out there catered to a dry scalp. A healing hair mask will certainly help add moisture to your scalp. However, it is important to pick a product that is free of irritants. Much like any other part of your body, the scalp is susceptible to irritation and allergic reactions. If your scalp has a sensitivity to a hair care product, contact dermatitis can develop on the scalp.

If you notice your scalp becomes irritated or sore after using certain products, it could be due to a sensitivity to the product. It is crucial to stop using the product immediately. If you are not sure which product it is, you can use the process of elimination to determine which one it is.

Skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis can appear in the scalp as well, causing dandruff. Do not worry if you're not sure what is causing your dandruff. Follow the advice on this page and see a GP if things do not improve in a month.

Page last reviewed: 02 October Next review due: 02 October Dandruff is a common skin condition. It's not harmful and you cannot catch it.