Dandruff

Dandruff, referred to as Darunaka in Ayurvedic literature, is a common scalp condition that affects about 50% of the adult human population globally. Though non-inflammatory, the condition can lead to aesthetic problems such as itching, visible flakes, and hair fall, leading to hair thinning. Several causative agents have been associated with the occurrence of dandruff. Lifestyle issues like sleep deprivation and stress are found to be associated with the occurrence of seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff.

Types of Dandruff:

There are several types of dandruff, including:

• Dry skin-related dandruff: This is the most common type of dandruff, which usually occurs during the winter months (from cold, dry weather) and is linked to using hot water to shampoo the hair (which dries out the scalp).
• Oil-related dandruff: This occurs from a buildup of sebum (oil) on the scalp. The oil can clump the dead skin cells on the scalp together, forming itchy flakes.
• Yeast-related dandruff: This is caused by Malassezia yeast, which is a type of fungus that lives on excess oil.

Dandruff Symptoms:

Often, the first sign that a person has dandruff is the appearance of white flakes of dead skin on the hair or shoulders, as well as an itchy scalp. Other symptoms of dandruff can vary, depending on the type of dandruff.

Symptoms of dandruff may include:

• Dry, flaky skin that worsens when the weather gets cold
• An itchy scalp
• Whitish-yellow skin flakes on the scalp, hair, eyebrows, beard, or mustache
• Flare-ups that occur in cold, dry seasons and during periods of stress
• Mild redness in the affected area
• Oily skin on the scalp

Risk Factors:

• Having excessively oily hair and skin on the scalp
• Being a certain age (it often begins in puberty)
• Male sex

Diagnosis:

Dandruff is normally diagnosed by a history and physical examination. There are usually no lab tests needed for diagnosis, but a skin biopsy may be performed to rule out other conditions.

Treatment:

Dandruff in adolescence and adults is a chronic condition. Dandruff treatment is aimed at alleviating symptoms and minimizing visible signs of the disorder (such as redness and itchiness) and preventing flare-ups. Treatment depends on the type of dandruff and how severe it is.

Mild dandruff can usually be treated with a gentle shampoo. Shampooing daily can reduce the oil on the scalp and prevent the buildup of dead skin cells.

Ayurvedic management:

External application by:

• Durdura pathradi keram
• Darunaka thailam
• Danthaphala keram

Shirolepam by:

• Nimba pathra
• Aragvada pathra

Internally:

• Nimbasavam