This article is a translation of the original French article “Les pellicules et la chute de cheveux : comment les gérer et les traiter” and is intended for the French market. Treatments, availability and prices may differ at our London clinic.
Why do I have a lot of dandruff and why am I losing my hair?
Dandruff on your shoulders and hair that gets thinner every day? You are not alone. Nearly 50% of the population suffers from it. Although dandruff does not directly cause hair loss, it can seriously aggravate the situation.
Dandruff is often caused by the overgrowth of the Malassezia fungus. This little intruder triggers inflammation of the scalp, leading to accelerated skin cell turnover. The result? White or yellow flakes that come away and fall onto your shoulders. But that is not all. This inflammation can also irritate the scalp, causing itching and poor healing.
Now imagine that you are constantly scratching your head because of this itching. Excessive scratching can damage the hair follicles, the structures responsible for your hair's growth. Over time, this can lead to hair miniaturisation, making hair finer and more fragile. In other words, your hair may start to fall out more easily.
Oily dandruff is particularly problematic. It clogs the hair follicles, preventing hair from growing properly. Imagine a garden where the plants' roots are choked by weeds. In the same way, hair needs a healthy environment to grow. If the follicles are clogged, hair loss can worsen.
So, what should you do? First, it is crucial to treat dandruff to prevent it from aggravating hair loss. Use specialist anti-dandruff shampoos containing antifungal ingredients such as ketoconazole or zinc pyrithione. These ingredients help control the overgrowth of the Malassezia fungus and reduce scalp inflammation.
Avoid scratching your scalp, however tempting it may be. Every scratch can damage your hair follicles. Brush your hair gently and choose soft-bristled brushes.
Finally, limit the use of harsh hair products. Some products can further irritate the scalp and make dandruff worse. Opt for products suited to your scalp type.
Understanding the causes of dandruff is essential to treating it effectively.
Causes of dandruff
Dandruff, those small white or yellow particles that fall from your scalp, can have several origins. The most common cause is the overgrowth of the Malassezia fungus. This micro-organism, naturally present on the skin, can multiply excessively and cause inflammation of the scalp. This inflammation speeds up skin cell turnover, leading to the formation of dandruff.
But that is not all. Dry skin can also be a factor. If your scalp lacks hydration, it can start to flake, creating dry dandruff. Reactions to harsh substances, such as certain hair products or overly strong shampoos, can also irritate the scalp and cause dandruff.
Other factors can come into play. Hormonal imbalances, for example, can influence sebum production and encourage dandruff. Likewise, genetic factors can make some people more prone to it. Poor hair hygiene, such as not washing your hair regularly, can also make matters worse.
Finally, nutritional deficiencies or certain medications can also play a role. For example, a lack of zinc or B vitamins can contribute to the formation of dandruff. It is therefore important to maintain a balanced diet and to consult a healthcare professional if you suspect your medication may be to blame.
Types of dandruff
There are two main categories of dandruff: dry and oily.
Dry dandruff is fine, white and often visible on the shoulders. It is generally caused by pityriasis, a common scalp condition. A dry, itchy scalp often indicates dry dandruff. It is frequently exacerbated by factors such as dry air, winter heating or overly harsh shampoos.
Oily dandruff, on the other hand, is thicker and yellowish. It is often accompanied by itching and irritation. This type of dandruff is often linked to excessive sebum production and may be associated with conditions such as seborrhoeic dermatitis. On an oily scalp, the flakes stick to the hair, making everything even more uncomfortable.
To treat both types of dandruff, it is essential to choose suitable products. Anti-dandruff shampoos containing ingredients such as ketoconazole or zinc pyrithione are effective for both types. However, for dry dandruff, it can be helpful to use moisturising products to soothe the scalp. For oily dandruff, opt for shampoos that regulate sebum production.
Recommended treatments and products for dandruff
To say goodbye to dandruff, you need to rely on the right products and adopt a routine that works. Here are a few recommendations to help you restore a healthy scalp.
First of all, anti-dandruff shampoos are your best allies. Look for those containing specialist ingredients such as salicylic acid, selenium sulphide, ketoconazole or zinc pyrithione. These ingredients are formidable against dandruff. For example, ketoconazole is a powerful antifungal that directly targets the Malassezia fungus, often responsible for dandruff. Zinc pyrithione, meanwhile, helps reduce inflammation and regulate sebum production.
For those who suffer from seborrhoeic dermatitis, shampoos containing selenium sulphide can be particularly beneficial. This compound helps slow skin cell turnover and reduce itching.
In addition to shampoos, consider soothing scalp treatments. A treatment containing 1% bisabolol, cotton extract, sweet almond oil and vegetable glycerine can help calm irritation and hydrate the scalp. These natural ingredients are gentle and can bring welcome relief, especially if your scalp is sensitive.
It is also important not to neglect hydration. A well-hydrated scalp is less likely to flake and produce dandruff. Favour products with humectants such as amides, known for their exceptional moisturising power.
Finally, don't forget a few simple but effective habits: avoid harsh shampoos and rinse your hair thoroughly to remove any product residue. Limit the use of styling products, which can irritate the scalp and exacerbate dandruff.
However, even with the best products, it is essential to adopt certain habits to prevent dandruff from returning.
Tips for avoiding dandruff
To avoid dandruff, it is crucial to adopt a suitable hair routine and lifestyle habits. First, choose gentle shampoos and avoid those that are too harsh. Overly strong products can irritate the scalp and make dandruff worse. Always rinse your hair thoroughly to remove any product residue, as leftover shampoo can also irritate the scalp.
Next, pay attention to your diet. Limit acidifying foods such as red meat and processed products. Favour a balanced diet rich in fruit, vegetables and whole grains. These foods provide the nutrients needed for a healthy scalp.
Don't scratch your scalp, however tempting it may be. Scratching can damage the hair follicles and make the situation worse. Use soft-bristled brushes to detangle your hair without irritating your scalp.
Finally, adopt a healthy lifestyle. Stress and fatigue can affect the health of your scalp. Take time to relax, get enough sleep and exercise regularly. These simple habits can make a big difference in preventing dandruff.
By following these tips, you can reduce the appearance of dandruff and maintain a healthy scalp.
