Myths about dandruff and those suffering with the problem:
One of the main reasons dandruff has consistently been an embarrassing problem for sufferers and one generally not discussed socially is that the condition is often seen as a hygiene issue. This is not the case. No amount of showering and shampooing cures dandruff. In fact, dandruff can’t be cured, but it can be controlled.
Another common misconception is that true dandruff is caused by dry skin. While some individuals do have dryer skin and may have minor flaking associated with dryness, dandruff is not simply dry skin. In fact, if your skin is oily, you’re more likely to suffer with dandruff. Dandruff tends to thrive in areas where oil glands are most productive. This includes the scalp but may also involve other areas like the eyebrows and the skin between the eyes.
Some people think that dandruff is contagious, but it isn’t. Since some skin conditions can be passed along (like ring worm), it’s still wise to avoid sharing combs and brushes. But, you’re not going to catch dandruff from other sufferers.
Fast Facts on Dandruff
1. Males are more likely to have dandruff than females.
2. Dandruff tends to first show up first during adolescence (about 6 in 10 teens have dandruff—higher than the average for all ages). Researchers think that adolescent onset of dandruff is related to general hormonal changes and oil glands becoming more productive. If teens don’t have enough to worry about with skin break outs, voice changes, and dating, they also discover head flakes.
3. Dandruff problems tend to peak around age 40. If you’re hitting this milestone, take heart. You may be over the hill or getting close when it comes to dealing with dandruff.
4. While young children and older adults can suffer with dandruff, most youngsters and oldsters are less bothered by dandruff problems. If your child is dealing with scalp problems, consider ring worm and check with a doctor. If an older person is itching and flaking (especially if it’s a new problem not noted earlier in life), be sure to check about conditions like dermatitis which requires and entirely different treatment approach.
5. Physical and mental stress both contribute to and complicate dandruff problems. This is just one more reason to take good care of yourself and to learn to deal with problems in healthy ways.
6. Winter is prime dandruff season. Sunlight and air tend to lessen scalp problems, so staying indoors and wrapping up tight will likely mean more flakes.
7. Hats and hair products can worsen dandruff problems. Fungi thrive in damp, dark environments. Consider jock itch and athletes’ foot. When your scalp is covered or weighed down with styling products, then the climate is better for dandruff.
8. Dying your hair can worsen dandruff problems. Dyes kill off natural, healthy bacterias which seem to balance out and fight the fungi related to dandruff.