Dandruff is not just dry skin, but is actually a form of inflammatory skin condition known as seborrheic dermatitis. It is characterized by flaky, itchy, and sometimes red patches of skin on the scalp, which can lead to the shedding of white or yellowish flakes of dead skin cells that we commonly refer to as dandruff.
Seborrheic dermatitis is believed to be caused by a combination of factors, including an overgrowth of a type of yeast called Malassezia, excess sebum production, and an inflammatory response by the body's immune system. The exact cause of seborrheic dermatitis is not well understood, but it is thought to be influenced by genetic and environmental factors.
While dry skin can contribute to dandruff, it is not the primary cause. Treating dandruff typically involves using anti-dandruff shampoos that contain active ingredients such as salicylic acid, selenium sulfide, or zinc pyrithione, which can help to reduce the growth of Malassezia and soothe inflammation in the scalp. In more severe cases, prescription-strength shampoos or topical medications may be necessary.
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