Invest in specific products and a visit to the dermatologist to treat dandruff.

Invest in specific products and a visit to the dermatologist to treat dandruff. 

1 · What is dandruff?
 

"These are particles made up of dead cells that slough off the scalp when the rate of skin renewal is accelerated," explains Juliana Neiva, Dermatologist Rio de Janeiro. Often dandruff is one of the manifestations of seborrheic dermatitis, inflammation of the skin in areas with high concentration of sebaceous glands. In the scalp, can reach eyebrows, cheek, ears and nose contour, causing burning, itching, redness, sores and hair loss. About 40% of Brazilians have dandruff, both men and women. But in them the picture tends to be more intense.

 

 

2 · It has to do with poor hygiene?
 

This is myth. The cause is genetic, but hormonal factors, stress and climate change can trigger and aggravate dandruff, which is not contagious. Under these conditions, it is common to increase the oil production by the sebaceous glands, which leads to proliferation of the fungus Malassezia (formerly Pityrosporum). Present on the skin of 90% of people in excess promotes inflammation and desquamation.

 

3 · It is true that there is dry and oily dandruff?

A. Yes. The first is thin, white, small, detaches itself from the resected scalp and falls like snow flakes on the shoulders and back. The second is bigger, thicker, yellow, and is adhered to the skin, surrounded by greasy hair strands at the time of the root.

 

4 · Worsening in the winter?

Dandruff can bother all year, but in the cold tends to be more pronounced. To prevent the skin from drying out due to low humidity, the sebaceous glands increase the production of oil. "The hot and long baths remove the oiliness of the scalp, stimulating the glands to work harder," says Angelica pepper, dermatologist of. This season also is abused more than carbohydrates and fatty foods, which favor the formation of flakes hated.

 

5 · Chapinha and dryer are allies or villains?

"Both increase dehydration of the hair, so it should protect them with Thermoset products," says Rio dermatologist. Yet it is better to use the dryer (a milder temperatures) to remove excess water than let your hair dry naturally. Hours with warm, moist scalp provide the ideal habitat for the fungus. Sleep with it wet, then, no way! Dandruff can get much worse! As for the flat iron, do not use with wet wires or too close to the scalp.

 

 

 

6 · What about chemical treatments?

Some can be harmful if the progressive brush with formaldehyde. "This substance weakens the skin of the scalp and can accentuate peeling," says Juliana.

 

 

If you have dandruff, avoid progressive, which can increase the problem. 
Photo: iStock / Thinkstock / Getty Images

Continuation of the matter.

 

7 · Is there a cure for dandruff?

No. However, the scaling can be controlled. The treatment acts on three fronts: normalize oil production by the sebaceous glands, reduce the proliferation of fungus and remove the accumulated scales. For this, we recommend the daily use of shampoos containing assets as zinc pyrithione (anti-inflammatory and antifungal), salicylic acid (works on renewal of dead cells) and ketoconazole (antifungal). Sometimes, topical lotions containing these assets are prescribed. In more intense and persistent tables can be an indication of anti-inflammatory and antifungal orally.

 

8 · These shampoos still stink and dry out the wires?

The formulations evolved. The modern anticaspas have more pleasant fragrances and moisturizers already provide assets such as allantoin, alpha bisabolol, ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Some of these products include antioxidants such as green tea, which help to combat irritation and strengthen the skin of the scalp. Search these ingredients on the package.Mentholated essences provide relief from itching.

 

9 · Consider using scrub to scalp?

The product is not suitable for those with dandruff. "May irritate skin that is already sensitive and aggravate the situation," warns Juliana Neiva.

 

10 · The way to wash the head make a difference?

"Use warm or cold water even in winter," advises Angelica pepper. After applying the shampoo, make a gentle massage of the scalp with your fingertips to activate circulation and help the active penetration. But no rubbing or scrubbing with nails (stimulates the production of sebum). Rinse hair well to remove residues of the scalp. The conditioner buildup, in particular, promotes peeling. Apply the conditioner and leave-in the middle to the wings, and never at the root.

 

11 · Laser can help?

Yes, in most resistant cases, now apply on the scalp laser diode, known by the acronym LED. Has low intensity and emits blue light, which has anti-inflammatory action. Are provided for 12 sessions, held twice a week.

 

 

12 · You can prevent the onset?

Yes, investing in healthy living and a balanced diet (curb fries, bacon, sausages and fatty sauces), and avoid very hot baths and dryers, choosing appropriate shampoo to your hair type and finding ways to cope with stress so that he will not manifest on the skin. "Dandruff is a chronic change that is always hanging around," says Juliana. At the slightest sign, start fighting. Do not expect increase.