WHAT IS DANDRUFF?
Dandruff is the most widespread problem of the
scalp.
There are two basic forms of dandruff. The first
is characterised by the formation of fine, white or grey loose
scales which leave the scalp easily. This simple form of dandruff
is seen on the scalp as dry white flakes. They come away from
the scalp easily and do not form a thick scale. The second
form is greasier and the scales tend to stick to the scalp
where they build up and may form a thick covering. The colour
of the scale in this type of dandruff is more yellowish as
sebum has been absorbed by the scale. This form of dandruff
can be more problematical as it can lead to worse scalp condition
such as dermatitis.
CAUSES
Dandruff is caused by skin cells forming too
quickly. Normally it takes 28 days for the cells which have
formed at the base of the epidermis (outer layer of skin)
to move through the skin and to reach the surface. At the
surface these skin cells, which are now dead, come away when
we wash or remove clothing. In dandruff cases, these cells
pass through the epidermis much faster than normal taking
around 15 to 18 days. This increase in dead cells results
in the formation of scale on the surface of the scalp.
TREATMENT
Many anti-dandruff shampoos are extremely harsh
and can often make the problem worse. The cells underneath
the dandruff flakes are particularly sensitive and strong
chemicals can irritate these calls. More cells are produced
to protect the sensitive cells underneath hence the formation
of even more dandruff. To treat dandruff successfully you
need to:-
- Clear the scalp of the dandruff scales.
- Control the level of bacteria on the scalp.
- Prevent the cells from growing too fast.
Trichology Scalp Improvement Shampoo from the
Tony Maleedy range is a blend of natural and highly effective
oils; thyme, tea-tree and rosemary, which all have antiseptic
and anti-bacterial properties. The jumper oil in this shampoo
has soothing and calming effects on the scalp tissues and
slows down the formation of the overproduced cells. The treatment
shampoo should be used until the problem has cleared and then
as maintenance therapy one every two weeks to keep the hair
and scalp in good condition.
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