Dandruff is a common problem faced by most of us. It causes the skin on the scalp to flake, appearing in the form of white sprinkles in your hair. It is not contagious or serious but can essentially ruin your hair quality over time. It might also be a form of seborrheic dermatitis. Popular symptoms include skin flakes found on your head, scalp, and shoulders and an itchy or crusty scalp. There are different causes of hair dandruff and one of them could be vitamin deficiency. Read on to know more about the causes of this condition.
Causes of Hair Dandruff
Dandruff can be treated safely if one knows its cause and treats it accordingly. Some causes include:
1. Seborrheic Dermatitis
This is a type of eczema that is formed in those areas of the body that are rich in sebaceous glands that exude oil or sebum from the pores. The exact cause is not known, however in some people a type of yeast is said to feed on these oily pores and improper care can allow their multiplied growth leading to dandruff.
2. Contact Dermatitis
This can be caused due to irritation of the skin by an irritant that creates painful rashes. Haircare products with harsh chemicals can be catalysts for contact dermatitis which in turn aggravate dandruff hair loss.
3. Dry Skin
If your skin on the scalp gets dry naturally or due to the cold weather and less oiling, this can cause dandruff. Proper hair care is recommended to prevent this.
4. Vitamin Deficiency
Vitamins take care of maintaining your hair and its texture. Lack of Vitamin B or folic acids can lead to flaky skin on your scalp and even thin and brittle hair. Fatty acids and Omega-3 are equally essential in maintaining a dandruff-free scalp.
Dandruff can also be influenced due to other factors like shampooing ways, age, hormonal imbalance, psychiatric conditions, stress, history of skin disorders, or even a weak immune system.
Effective Dandruff Remedies
1. Change your Hair Care Routine
You have to incorporate medicated and even non-medicated products that will aid in reducing dandruff. It is important to find products that are long-lasting because the process of maintenance is ongoing. A gentle shampoo is recommended for reducing an oily scalp and avoiding build-up. These are effective for only some people.
Medicated shampoos containing salicylic acid, sulfide, ketoconazole, and pyrithione zinc have proven to work better for the majority. Anti-dandruff shampoos, when used in moderation, work the best. Add serums, hair masks, and ointments to your routine after consultations with your dermatologists.
2. Go Out in the Sun
The sun can help incredibly in reducing the yeast formation on your scalp. Wear sunscreen to protect the skin from extra damage.
3. Avoid Heat and Styling Products
The artificial styling products ruin the quality of your hair and the heat is bad for dandruff-prone hair.
4. Manage Stress
Stress and mental instability can cause more hair fall and dandruff, along with other such hair-related issues.
5. Choose a Healthy Diet
A balanced diet is a major factor to get rid of dandruff. Vitamins A, B, C, and D can prevent hair loss, protect and strengthen your immune system, and even influence the healthy growth of hair.
How Vitamin Deficiency Affects Hair Dandruff
Vitamins, though necessary in a balanced diet for various reasons like eyesight and better energy, also assist in maintaining healthy hair. Here’s a list of essential vitamins that help you fight hair dandruff:
- Vitamin A controls the oil secretion process which moisturizes the scalp. Vitamin A deficiency can lead to dandruff hair loss. Carrots, pumpkin, spinach, and kale are sources of Vitamin A.
- Vitamin B contains Biotin that can enhance the creation of red blood cells and add nutrients to the scalp. It is found in almonds, meat, fish, and whole grains.
- Vitamin C aids in building collagen necessary for hair development. It is a good antioxidant and provides nourishment to the hair follicles. Citrus fruits, strawberries, and papayas have good amounts of Vitamin C.
- Vitamin D deficiency can cause hair loss or alopecia. It plays an important role in hair production. Increasing your Vitamin D intake can prove to be good for dandruff treatment. Eat fatty fish, cod liver oil, and mushrooms for Vitamin D.
Conclusion
Vitamin deficiency is one of the most serious causes of hair dandruff. This may lead to bigger troubles with one’s scalp and hair growth as one grows older. Experts recommend paying attention to your hair care and following homemade easy remedies to get rid of dandruff.
