Dandruff and Severe Scalp Irritation

The majority of people suffering scalp flaking, whether associated with irritation or not, tend to consider that they have dandruff. This is an incorrect assumption as dandruff in its milder form can be caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called Pityrosporum ovale. Dandruff in its more severe form is termed a disease and is called Seborrhoeic Eczema or Seborrhoeic Dermatitis.

The majority of male or female patients generally suffer from stress related scalp flaking and not dandruff. However, whether dandruff is involved or not, the symptoms are both uncomfortable and unsightly.

It is important to understand that we all shed skin cells constantly from all over our bodies and the scalp is no exception to this. Your skin is constantly renewing itself and dead cells from the scalp fall away as new skin cells form beneath them. Many people suffering scalp flaking, whether associated with irritation or not, often think the cause is a dry scalp and stop shampooing their hair. To stop shampooing the hair and scalp will inevitably create more severe problems, since a dirty scalp will create even more flaking and irritation, leading to an increase in harmful bacteria.

The problem most often encountered with dandruff shampoos is that they are far too stripping and high in chemical content. This leads to further problems, because as flaking and scalp debris are removed, the layer of sensitive new skin is damaged by the harsh ingredients, causing it to dry out, irritate and flake away. You are then in a constant cycle of irritation and flaking.

This clinic recommends two alternative treatments for your scalp that will not strip the delicate acid mantle from your hair or scalp. Both will settle and soothe your scalp irritation whilst removing excess scalp flaking.