Oily and dry dandruff

It might come as a surprise, but nearly 60% of adults suffer from dandruff, a rather unpleasant scalp issue for many. In our latest article, we explore the difference between oily and dry dandruff, why they develop, and how to treat them most effectively.

Formation of Dandruff

A healthy scalp renews itself every three weeks, so the shedding of skin cells is a natural process. In this case, the skin cells are so small that the flaking is almost unnoticeable. The problem begins when dandruff becomes visible on our hair and even on our shoulders and clothing.

Dandruff is the excessive, accelerated shedding of the scalp, characterized by the appearance of small to large flakes, scalp itching, and inflammation with redness. We distinguish between oily and dry dandruff; in the following, we will explain the differences between the two types.

Oily Dandruff

Oily dandruff can develop due to excessive sebum production. This scalp issue is most common in skin types with overactive sebaceous glands. It often occurs during adolescence and in young adults, as hormonal changes stimulate the activity of these glands.

Another common cause of an oily scalp is stress. Daily stress can disrupt our hormonal balance, leading to increased sebum production. As a result, the process of cell death accelerates, but the excess oil causes the dead cells to stick together, preventing them from shedding off the hair strands. The accumulated layer of dandruff mixed with oil clogs the scalp, depriving it of air.

Dry Dandruff

Several factors can cause dry dandruff, such as improper nutrition, a cold scalp, or the harmful effects of chemical substances. Dry scalp often develops due to dehydration caused by insufficient nutrient and oxygen supply. When the scalp loses its moisture, the protective layer is damaged. This allows harmful substances to penetrate deeper into the skin, potentially leading to inflammation.

People with dry skin generally face dry dandruff. Although the dead skin cells are shed from the hair strands, dandruff in this case results in dry, dull, and brittle hair. This is because the hair strands do not receive enough oil due to the underperformance of the sebaceous glands. The substance produced by these glands is responsible for the hair’s shine and protection against external factors.

Treatment and Prevention of Dandruff

The most crucial step is to identify whether oily or dry dandruff is causing the scalp issues. Each type of dandruff requires different methods and treatments.

For oily dandruff, paying attention to hair washing is important: avoid washing your hair every day; 2-3 times a week is sufficient. Chemical treatments and blow-drying with hot air can stimulate excessive sebum production, so it’s worth being mindful of these factors. Surprisingly, refined carbohydrates and fried foods can also intensify the oiliness of our scalp.

Additionally, establishing a proper hair care routine is extremely important. Thorough cleansing and disinfection are key parts of removing oily dandruff!

One of the most important pieces of advice for eliminating dry dandruff is to avoid hair care products and shampoos loaded with chemicals. Use cosmetics that do not contain SLS, SLES, and silicone. It’s also advisable to reduce the frequent use of various hair styling devices, such as hair straighteners and curling irons.

Though it’s difficult to resist, try not to scratch your itchy scalp; instead, use soothing products. Overly salty and sugary foods can also contribute to the development of dry scalp, so opt for more vegetables, fruits, and raw foods instead.

PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION:

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Oily Scalp and Oily Dandruff Product Bundle

We recommend the combined use of Detox Wash (500 ml) and Detox Mask (500 ml) for excessively oily, dandruff-prone scalp, and damaged hair ends. The main active ingredient of Detox Wash is cucumber extract, which regulates sebum production which makes it a perfect match for treating an oily scalp. It helps prevent and reduce the formation of dandruff. The Detox Mask with B5 vitamin and cucumber extract nourishes the hair and scalp. It can help restore pH balance while deeply nourishing the hair strands.

SCALP CONDITIONS CAUSED BY DANDRUFF

SEBORRHEA

Seborrhea is a scalp condition caused by overactive sebaceous glands. Due to excessive sebum production, the scalp quickly accumulates dust and dirt, making it easier for bacteria to thrive. The layer of sebum prevents hair follicles from receiving sufficient oxygen and nutrients, leading to their shrinkage. Consequently, this scalp condition can cause hair loss and hinder hair growth.

PSORIASIS

Psoriasis is a condition that develops due to dry dandruff, characterized by an accelerated process of proliferation and maturation of skin cells, resulting in imperfect scaling. Accumulation of rapidly produced skin cells leads to inflamed, irritated, sore, shiny red patches on the skin. Once dried, these areas are covered with a scaly, whitish layer. The peeling skin surface causes intense itching and can even extend to the entire scalp.

Dandruff and scalp flaking are not the same concept. Scalp flaking is a natural process, as in this case, the rhythm of skin shedding is normal, and excessive cell death does not occur. However, in the case of dandruff, we can talk about increased, accelerated scalp flaking, which is accompanied by an inflamed scalp. If you need help to eliminate your scalp problem, book an appointment with our specialists who’ll help you get to the root of your scalp problems!

Author: Petra Giriti