What is the dandruff?
Dandruff consists of whitish scales that form on the scalp following the skin desquamation. They are leftovers of dead cells, whose replacement occurs faster than in normal conditions. This scalp problem is often combined with itching.
The causes
Malassezia furfur
It is a yeast normally present as a component of the skin flora, but becomes a pathogen agent following its hyperproliferation (due for example to excessive or altered production of sebum). It nourishes of long chain fatty acids, which sebum is very rich.
Oily skin
Responsible for the "greasy" dandruff, characterized by thick, yellowish and oily scales.
Dry skin
Responsible for the "dry" dandruff, characterized by dry, dehydrated, fine and greyish scales, often combined with itching.
Use of aggressive detergents
Frequent washing with aggressive shampoos can cause a state of permanent irritation and dryness of the scalp, which promotes skin desquamation.
Stress, unbalanced diet, individual predisposition