Dandruff causes our scalp's skin to get dry and flake. This is neither a contagious nor persistent illness. However, dandruff might have an impact on one's daily life. Dandruff can cause itchy skin, dry and crusty scalp, and other symptoms.
There are a variety of factors that cause dandruff. The most prevalent causes are oily skin, dry skin, skin disorders, and fungal infections. There are certain meals that can help to minimise dandruff.
Talking to OnlyMyHealth, Dr Priyanka Rohatgi, Chief Nutritionist Apollo Hospitals, explains how we can reduce dandruff during winter.
Dandruff could be due to many reasons:
Skin type
The most prevalent ailment is dry skin-related dandruff, which commonly develops in the winter. It is caused by having a hot bath with your head, which causes your scalp to become extremely dry and flaky. This type of dandruff is quite common among those with dry, curly hair.
This condition should be treated with moisturising shampoos, and by avoiding colouring, dyeing, and perming. Regular oil massages relieve itching and stimulate blood circulation and nutrients to the scalp.
There is another type of dandruff, oil-related dandruff, which occurs when sebum oil accumulates on the scalp. This oil, which is secreted by the scalp glands, can cause clumps of dead skin cells and dirt to form painful flakes. Stress and anxiety increase sebum oil output, which causes the disease.
Also read: What Is Eyebrow Dandruff? Know Symptoms, Causes, Treatment
Hard water
Minerals in hard water cannot bond to shampoos, conditioners, and soaps, limiting their effectiveness and increasing consumption. Minerals dissolved in hard water form a film on the hair after repeated washings, preventing moisture from entering the hair. As a result, the hair is dry, lifeless, and tangly, and the colour disappears. Hard water can promote scalp buildup, resulting in dandruff and itching.
Scalp Infection
Seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp can cause symptoms comparable to a yeast infection of the scalp. It is known as dandruff in its milder form.
Food that helps to reduce dandruff
Fatty fish
Rich in omega 3, which improves scalp health.
Research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may aid in hair thickness and growth.
Eggs
Eggs are extremely high in zinc and biotin. Foods high in these components promote improved scalp and hair health. Our scalp produces sebum. Sebum is a natural oil created by our bodies to protect our scalp from injury. Excess sebum can also cause dandruff, which can be prevented by eating zinc and biotin-rich foods.
Also read: Confused Between Dandruff & Dry Scalp? Know The Difference From An Expert
Avocados
Monounsaturated fatty acids are healthy fats for hair. They are both nutritious and adaptable. This makes it simple to incorporate them into our diet. Olive oil, peanut butter, flaxseeds, and other plant-based, healthful fat-rich foods
Nuts
Another plant-based source of healthful fats is nuts. They are also high in zinc and other vitamins and nutrients that have been linked to improved general health. A healthy fat diet can help feed the scalp and minimise dandruff.
Other foods including banana( zinc, potassium, biotin-rich), yoghurt, olive oil, tofu, and poultry are enriched with probiotics to boost immunity.
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