Causes of dandruff
Synonyms in a broader sense
Dandruff, pityriasis simplex capillitii, head seborrhea, pityriasis simplex capitis
English: dandruff, scurf
causes
The skin consists of three layers from the outside in. In the epidermis (Epidermis) is a keratinizing squamous epithelium that is the producer and carrier of an impermeable horny layer that represents the outer boundary layer of the epidermis. Among them are the Dermis (Dermis) and the Adipose tissue (Subcutis). Other components of the skin are the skin appendages:
- hair
- Nails
- Sebum glands and Sweat glands
The Keratinocytes (Skin cells of the epidermis) represent a continuously renewing cell population in which cell gain (proliferation) and cell loss (Desquamation) keep the balance. The outer boundary layer of the epidermis is the end product of the development of the Keratinocytes. The resulting horny layer is not a fixed structure, but is constantly renewed by exfoliating outward and increasing keratinocytes from below. On average, the entire epidermis takes one month to renew. After that, the dead cells are shed and are sometimes called Dandruff visible.
Different stimuli can lead to an excessive increase in tissue (Hyperproliferation) and the formation of visible scales. The dead skin cells (Corneocytes) are now shed more and more quickly than in people who have no dandruff problem. In addition, the scalp with the help of the Sebum glands produces their own “lubricant”, sebum. He holds skin and hair soft and supple. If too much sebum is formed, the expelled horny cells can clump together and form visible clusters of dandruff (Aggregates) replace.
One of the causes that can trigger the excessive and rapid shedding of dead skin cells is improper hair care. If you wash your hair too often or blow-dry it too hot, the sebum glands are no longer able to produce sufficient oil and dry, flaky skin results.
Other causes
But also various diseases can be the cause of Dandruff be. This is a very common problem seborrheic head eczema, or also seborrheic dermatitis called, in which an overproduction of sebum (seborrhea) and the increased reproduction of certain microorganisms, such as yeast Malassezia furfur, play an important role. The fungus mentioned is usually an inconspicuous part of our skin flora and breaks down sebum and dead cells. However, if the scalp is out of balance, e.g. improper care can cause the fungus to multiply and trigger itchy inflammation. The scalp reacts to this inflammation with increased flaking, which in turn encourages the fungus to grow. The seborrheic head eczema now occurs due to the increased sebum production and the associated clumping of prematurely dead horny cells, which are massively exfoliated. This condition occurs in 1-2% of the population and should be treated with an antifungal agent.
Other disease-related causes associated with dandruff are the Neurodermatitis, the psoriasis (psoriasis) or other fungal diseases of the skin (Tinea capitis).
But also hormonal disorders PH value alter the skin, high in sugar and fat nutrition, too high Alcohol consumption, allergy or stress can trigger increased dandruff. Fleas or lice can also cause severe itchy and flaky inflammation trigger the scalp.
