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Causes Symptoms

What is Dandruff?

Excessive shedding of dead skin from the scalp is known as Dandruff. Usually, skin cells die and flake off in a month, so a small amount of flaking is considered normal. But only if it flakes off in a month, while in those suffering from Dandruff, this happens every 2-7 days. Apart from being a physical condition, dandruff is also associated with social and self-esteem issues in many individuals as it impacts appearance. Don’t worry! With proper care and Dandruff treatment, you can get permanent relief from the problem.

In minor cases, dandruff treatment at home can be effective; however, if there is an underlying cause behind it, then a root-cause treatment that is personalised for your body type and existing health conditions is the right way to go.

Symptoms

Flaking

Flaking: The most telling sign when dandruff is present is the accumulation of white and yellow flakes on the scalp, in the hair and especially on the shoulders.

Itching

Itching: There may be some itching in the scalp, which may sometimes get worse in dry conditions.

Dry or Greasy Scalp

Dry or Greasy Scalp: Depending upon the type, the scalp can be really flaky or really oily.

Redness

Redness: In certain areas, the scalp may become red or swollen.

Sensitivity

Sensitivity: It may feel like that the affected areas are sensitive or tender.

Types of Dandruff

There can be multiple varieties of dandruff, each with some unique characteristics like:

1. Dry Skin Dandruff: Most common in winters, this kind of dandruff is brought about by a lack of moisture in the scalp, which makes the skin shed in small white flakes.
2. Oily Scalp Dandruff: This type of dandruff appears as yellow, greasy, and scaly patches that develop when scalp greasiness, dirt and dead cells combine.
3. Fungal Dandruff (Seborrheic Dermatitis): As a result of the excessive growth of Malassezia fungus, this type triggers an adverse reaction that consists of inflammatory lesions, irritation, and big oily flakes. It does not only limit itself to the scalp but often invades other parts of the body such as the eyebrows and the sides of the nose which tend to have more oil.
4. Product Build-Up Dandruff: Some individuals are addicted to using hair gel products, hairspray or conditioners. The scalp tends to suffer from product build-up which may cause dandruff-like issues in them.
5. Scalp Psoriasis: This type of dandruff is manifested in more inflamed red patches with silvery scales and can be extremely irritating. The treatment of such a form of dandruff is usually more serious than that of other forms.

What Causes Dandruff?

• Seborrheic Dermatitis: A condition where the scalp becomes oily, irritated, and scaly.
• Malassezia Fungus: This naturally occurring fungus feeds on oils on the scalp. An overgrowth can lead to dandruff.
• Dry Skin: Especially common in winter, dry skin can lead to flaky skin.
• Sensitivity to Hair Products: Usage of some harsh shampoos, conditioners, or hair treatments can irritate the scalp leading to dandruff.
• Poor Diet and Stress: Nutritional deficiencies and stress are also a big reason for dandruff.

According to Ayurveda, dandruff is largely associated with Vata and Kapha dosha imbalance especially vitiated Kapha dosha. A bald patch with loose, flaky skin indicates excess Vata while greasy bald patches or sticky bald patches with yellow colored flakes suggest too much Kapha. Poor diet, improper hair care, and lack of hygiene can exacerbate these doshas, leading to dandruff and other hair issues.

Risks & Complications

Though dandruff itself is usually not harmful but if left untreated, can lead to complications:

• Infection: While scratching the scalp, it is likely the skin on the scalp will get ruptured which in turn leads an infection which can be serious.
• Hair Loss: Constantly having dandruff and its discomforts would eventually cause hair roots being weakened increasing hair loss.
• Seborrheic Dermatitis: More serious dandruff could lead to chronic dermatitis known as seborrheic dermatitis which extends to more parts of the body.
• Social and Emotional Impact: Visible flakes can lead to embarrassment, anxiety, and reduced self-esteem.

When to See a Doctor?

In most cases dandruff is treatable with herbal or natural remedies for dandruff and proper maintenance of the hair. But you should consult an Ayurvedic practitioner if:

• The dandruff aggravates and does not go away for long periods of time.
• There is too much scratching or redness.
• You have bald spots or are losing hair.
• There are no results from dandruff treatment at home.
• The condition extends beyond the scalp to areas like eyebrows or ears.

Ayurvedic Treatment for Dandruff

According to Ayurveda, dandruff, which stems from dosha imbalance is manageable in many ways. Here’s how:

Herbal Remedies

The Ayurvedic herbs Amalaki, Bhringaraja, and Neem are frequently employed because of their antifungal and antibacterial properties. Neem oil in particular is used to treat fungi, while Amla nourishes the scalp and strengthens hair follicles.

Diet and Lifestyle Adjustments

Since Ayurveda focuses on regulating a balanced diet that is beneficial to the Vata and Kapha doshas. Including warm, moist foods, reducing the intake of processed and spicy foods, and drinking plenty of water can help. A regular hair care routine and practicing stress relieving exercises including yoga and meditation are strongly suggested as well.

Oil Massage (Abhyanga)

With the use of warm herbal oils such as coconut or sesame which is mixed with medicinal herbs like aloe vera, the scalp is hydrated and prevented from excess dryness. A soothing massage of the scalp is beneficial in increasing blood circulation to that area thus facilitating hair growth as well as maintaining doshic balance.

Panchakarma Therapies

Dandruff treatment in ayurveda involves basic detox procedures such as Shirodhara (which involves pouring warm oil on the forehead) and Nasya, (medicated oil is delivered through the nose) help in combating dandruff from the root cause.

Ayurvedic Shampoos and Hair Packs

The Ayurvedic shampoos containing herbal ingredients like Aloe Vera, Tea Tree oil, and Hibiscus are recommended for scalp health. A hair pack made of fenugreek seeds, yogurt and lemon juice is also beneficial.

Jiva’s Evidence-Based Treatment Process

Nadi Pariksha

Starting with Nadi Pariksha, Jiva's certified Ayurvedic doctors use this traditional pulse diagnosis to detect imbalances and assess organ health, which is crucial for diagnosing Dandruff accurately.

Prakriti Analysis

Understanding your unique physical and psychological pattern allows us to tailor a Dandruff treatment plan that not only addresses symptoms but aligns with your inherent constitution for lasting health.

Samprapti Ghatak (Pathogenesis)

Our practitioners investigate the progression of dandruff by examining dietary habits, lifestyle, and mental health factors. This thorough analysis helps identify specific triggers that need to be addressed for targeted, individualised treatment.

Chikitsa Sutra - Personalised Treatment Plan

We then, create a detailed Dandruff treatment plan, which consists of diet modifications, lifestyle adjustments, herbal medications, and specific therapies that aim to restore dosha balance and enhance hair health.

Continuous Monitoring & Amendments

Continuous tracking of treatment effectiveness allows us to make necessary adjustments, ensuring that you achieve the best results from your personalised and Ayurvedic Treatment for Dandruff with Jiva's ongoing support.