Regular therapy helps ease dandruff problem

One of the common skin problems in the Middle East, dandruff is a form of skin eczema (seborrheic eczema) that affects the parts of the body with high oil production. Seborrheic eczema normally affects scalp, ears, face, middle of chest and back, and folds of skin, such as underarms, skin below the breast or groins, said Dr Mathew Thomas, Specialist Dermatologist, Aster Medical Centre, Sharjah. Even though the terms ‘seborrheic eczema’ and ‘dandruff’ are sometimes used interchangeably, dandruff is the term used when only the scalp is involved. It affects 2 to 5 per cent of the population and the disease is more common among males. Infants, adolescents and middle-aged persons are usually affected. The cause of this skin ailment is complex. In simple terms dandruff is thought to be due to a combination of an over-production of skin oil (sebum) and irritation from a yeast called malessizia. It can run in families. Stress, fatigue, extremes of temperatures (usually improves in summer and worsens in winter), oily skin, infrequent shampooing, skin disorders (such as acne and psoriasis), or obesity may increase the risk, he added. Parkinson’s disease, head injury, stroke and HIV infection may be associated with seborrheic eczema. The common symptoms Yellowish greasy scales involving almost the entire scalp In severe forms it may spread beyond the hairy scalp In infants it may affect the scalp, called cradle cap. People with dandruff may also experience irritation, itching and redness on the scalp. Dandruff causes permanent hair loss Frequent oiling of the scalp will help to cure dandruff. Dandruff is infectious and it can spread from one person to another. Common myths about dandruff Even though there is no way to prevent or cure dandruff, treatment can control it. With regular treatment, the condition improves quickly. It is also a fact that dandruff may get better on its own. “This chronic disease requires initial therapy followed by regular maintenance therapy. Topical low-dose corticosteroid and anti-fungal preparations are used initially with medicated shampoos. Symptoms usually disappear in a couple of days.” Maintenance of the results are achieved by regular shampooing (twice a week). Dandruff affecting the eyelashes can be very disturbing. Scrubbing the eyelashes with baby shampoo on a cotton swab may help. Specific ophthalmic medications including cortisone creams or drops should be used only under medical supervision. Dandruff, a very household name if mild, does not require a visit to the doctor. Over the counter anti-dandruff shampoos are all that is enough. If there is persistence despite various treatments, a dermatologist’s help can be sought.