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ABSTRACT –

It is a common condition on the scalp that appears due to flaking of the skin. It is usually treatable. The cause of dandruff is not only limited to hygiene factors but it is associated with other causes as well. New born or young infants usually have dandruff which is known as cradle cap and it appears as greasy, yellow patches on the scalp.

CAUSES –

• Dry Skin
• Seborrheic dermatitis – Usually due to oily skin. It can make skin greasy, red, covered with flaky white or yellow scales.
• Not washing hair timely
• Skin Conditions – Eczema, psoriasis which makes the scalp very itchy.
• Malassezia – It is a yeast that feeds on the oil depositions on the scalp.
• Diet
• Age
• Some neurological problems can also increase the risk of medical condition called Seborrheic Dermatitis which causes extreme dandruff on the scalp.

RISK FACTORS –

• Age
• Poor diet
• Neurological conditions
• Male hormones
• Stress
• Head injury
• Stroke
• Genetic Factors
• Environmental Factors

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS –

• Flakes
• Itching
• Dry Scalp
• Redness
• Rashes
• Hair Loss

DIAGNOSIS –

It can only be diagnosed by examining the hair.

TREATMENT –

• Gentle cleansing and shampooing on timely manner.
• Pyrithione zinc shampoos – This is an anti-bacterial, antifungal agent which is used to reduce the fungus on the scalp
• Tar-based shampoos – Coal tar can help in reducing the condition of Dandruff, Seborrheic Dermatitis and Psoriasis.
• Ketoconazole shampoos – It is a broad spectrum antifungal agent
• Selenium sulfide shampoo- These help in reducing malassezia fungi on scalp

PREVENTION –

• Stress Management
• Keeping scalp clean
• Shampoo
• Avoid harsh chemicals and hair styling products
• Healthy diet
• Sun exposure
• Tea tree oil

EPIDEMIOLOGY –

• The severity of dandruff peaks at the age of 20 and becomes lesser at an age of 50 and above
• 1 to 3% of adults have Seborrheic Dermatitis
• 42% of infants have cradle cap.