Dandruff (Scalp Flaking)

Overview

Scalp skin continually renews and sheds. With dandruff, this cycle speeds up, leading to visible flakes and itch. While often manageable, ongoing irritation or widespread redness may indicate seborrheic dermatitis or another scalp condition that merits clinical review.

Common Contributors

• Natural scalp oil changes; sensitivity to hair products or detergents
• Weather shifts (cold/dry air), stress, irregular scalp care
• Heavily processed, very spicy/greasy diets; dehydration
• Frequent cosmetic treatments (bleaching, coloring, heat styling) irritating the scalp
• Allergens/irritants: dust, fabrics, harsh shampoos

Symptoms

• White/grey flakes on scalp, hair, or shoulders
• Itch, dryness, or tightness of scalp
• Redness/irritation; occasionally acne or facial scaling

Ayurvedic Perspective (Supportive)

Classical descriptions place persistent scalp flaking with itch under disorders involving aggravated Vāta (dryness/roughness) and Pitta (heat/irritation), with accumulation of by-products (ama) in scalp tissues. Support aims to calm Vāta-Pitta with soothing routines and gentle, individualized care—alongside clinician guidance when symptoms persist or worsen.

Diet & Lifestyle Advice

• Wash scalp regularly (2–3×/week) with a mild shampoo; rinse thoroughly.
• Light oil massage before wash (e.g., coconut or lightweight hair oil) if scalp is dry; avoid heavy oils if very flaky.
• Favor fresh, fiber-rich meals; limit very spicy, greasy, ultra-processed foods and sugary drinks.
• Manage stress (yoga, breathing, walks); keep nails short—avoid scratching.
• Patch-test new hair products; reduce harsh heat/chemical styling during flare-ups.

Home Remedies (Traditional)

• Mix 2–3 tsp coconut oil with 1 tsp amla juice; gently massage scalp before wash.
• Post-wash rinse: decoction of margosa (neem) leaves with amla, cooled and strained.
• Weekly mask: beat 10 drops lemon juice into 1 egg white; apply to scalp/hair, then rinse well.

Stop any remedy that irritates your skin. Seek professional advice for persistent, painful, or extensive symptoms.

When to Seek Care

Consider a dermatologist/trichologist visit if dandruff persists >4–6 weeks despite routine care, if there is intense itch, significant redness/crusting, hair loss, bleeding from scratching, or involvement beyond the scalp (eyebrows, ears, folds).

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