Natural and home remedies for dandruff and scalp problems.
Archive for December, 2009
Can Hair Loss and Scalp Itching Be Due to Hormones? I’ll Tell You
Dec 29th
Ava Alderman asked:
Last weekend, I received an email from a woman who had, for the last six months or so, been experiencing hair loss along with some itching, tingling, tightness, and redness in her scalp. The woman felt that, since she was approaching 50, it might be possible that she could be approaching menopause and so this could be contributing to the hair and scalp issues. The answer is that it could, but it may not be in the way that she thought. I will discuss this more in the following article.
Hormones And Hair Loss With Itching Scalp: The Two Most Likely Causes: My reader had theorized that since she was potentially no longer producing as much estrogen and progesterone, this would mean that her hair might age or thin. This line of thinking was certainly a rational and common one. But, after emailing back and forth for a while, I was able to determine that this woman was not just experiencing your typical or run of the mill aging of the hair. No, she was experiencing some very dramatic shedding that was thinning out her hair in a sudden and not gradual way.
Therefore, I felt that it might be more likely that she was experiencing telogen effluvium or TE, as it’s more commonly called. And yes, this was most likely caused by the drop in hormones. TE is often caused by even small changes in the body which cause your system to react by going into “shedding” or “resting” mode since the body is trying to save its resources, for whatever reason.
This can happen for various medical reasons like pregnancy, hypothyroidism, adrenal burnout, yeast over growth, chronic stress, etc. And, some people are more prone to this than others. The writer did admit that most times in her life when she went off and on birth control pills or hormone replacement, this same thing had happened to her.
Normally, TE will eventually right itself on it’s own, so long as your body is able to stabilize itself as no triggers (or medications that may be culprits) are not added in. However, one thing which I felt that she also needed to be aware of was the possibility of genetic hair loss or androgenic alopecia (which is otherwise known as AGA.)
When I told her this, she was quite shocked and replied “oh no, that’s men’s hair loss. Isn’t that like where men get that little halo around their hair and then get a round bald patch on the top like Julius Caesar or something?” Yes, that’s what I’m talking about. But also yes, women are affected by this as well. And, it’s actually much more common than you might think. Admittedly, most women don’t get the smooth bald top like Julius Caesar, but they can get severe thinning at the top, a receding hair line, sparse temples and crown, or just an all over thinning, which is more diffuse in nature.
And the reason that she might be vulnerable to AGA right now is because it typically happens as the female hormones begin to wane somewhat because you’re not as protected by estrogen (in terms of the androgens and DHT that cause this) at this time. Just as men’s hair loss begins to become more prominent with age, so too, can women’s.
Now, in terms of the itching. This can be the result of many of the hairs going into the dying off or resting phase with the beginning of TE. Or, sometimes as the hair begins to regrow, this will cause some itching and tingling. Finally, the androgens that can become more prominent at this time can also cause more itching. (Not washing your hair for fear of the loss can cause some itching too.)
So, how in the world can she tell what is really happening? Well, she could wait for a couple of months to see if this resolves. If so, it was likely TE. And, she could look closely at her regrowth. Telogen effluvium regrowth is usually normal looking and thick. AGA regrowth is sometimes very fine and just not as substantial as it once was (which is called miniaturization.)
Create a video blog
Last weekend, I received an email from a woman who had, for the last six months or so, been experiencing hair loss along with some itching, tingling, tightness, and redness in her scalp. The woman felt that, since she was approaching 50, it might be possible that she could be approaching menopause and so this could be contributing to the hair and scalp issues. The answer is that it could, but it may not be in the way that she thought. I will discuss this more in the following article.
Hormones And Hair Loss With Itching Scalp: The Two Most Likely Causes: My reader had theorized that since she was potentially no longer producing as much estrogen and progesterone, this would mean that her hair might age or thin. This line of thinking was certainly a rational and common one. But, after emailing back and forth for a while, I was able to determine that this woman was not just experiencing your typical or run of the mill aging of the hair. No, she was experiencing some very dramatic shedding that was thinning out her hair in a sudden and not gradual way.
Therefore, I felt that it might be more likely that she was experiencing telogen effluvium or TE, as it’s more commonly called. And yes, this was most likely caused by the drop in hormones. TE is often caused by even small changes in the body which cause your system to react by going into “shedding” or “resting” mode since the body is trying to save its resources, for whatever reason.
This can happen for various medical reasons like pregnancy, hypothyroidism, adrenal burnout, yeast over growth, chronic stress, etc. And, some people are more prone to this than others. The writer did admit that most times in her life when she went off and on birth control pills or hormone replacement, this same thing had happened to her.
Normally, TE will eventually right itself on it’s own, so long as your body is able to stabilize itself as no triggers (or medications that may be culprits) are not added in. However, one thing which I felt that she also needed to be aware of was the possibility of genetic hair loss or androgenic alopecia (which is otherwise known as AGA.)
When I told her this, she was quite shocked and replied “oh no, that’s men’s hair loss. Isn’t that like where men get that little halo around their hair and then get a round bald patch on the top like Julius Caesar or something?” Yes, that’s what I’m talking about. But also yes, women are affected by this as well. And, it’s actually much more common than you might think. Admittedly, most women don’t get the smooth bald top like Julius Caesar, but they can get severe thinning at the top, a receding hair line, sparse temples and crown, or just an all over thinning, which is more diffuse in nature.
And the reason that she might be vulnerable to AGA right now is because it typically happens as the female hormones begin to wane somewhat because you’re not as protected by estrogen (in terms of the androgens and DHT that cause this) at this time. Just as men’s hair loss begins to become more prominent with age, so too, can women’s.
Now, in terms of the itching. This can be the result of many of the hairs going into the dying off or resting phase with the beginning of TE. Or, sometimes as the hair begins to regrow, this will cause some itching and tingling. Finally, the androgens that can become more prominent at this time can also cause more itching. (Not washing your hair for fear of the loss can cause some itching too.)
So, how in the world can she tell what is really happening? Well, she could wait for a couple of months to see if this resolves. If so, it was likely TE. And, she could look closely at her regrowth. Telogen effluvium regrowth is usually normal looking and thick. AGA regrowth is sometimes very fine and just not as substantial as it once was (which is called miniaturization.)
Create a video blog
The Best Shampoo For Dandruff
Dec 20th
Tim Faber asked:
Dandruff can cause flakes, itchy scalp and inflammation. The best shampoo for dandruff addresses the underlying causes of dandruff while deep cleaning flakes, dirt and oil, and soothing inflammation.
Primary Causes
Dandruff may result from a variety of factors – excessive oil production on the scalp, bacteria or fungus, allergic reaction to shampoos and conditioners, or inflammation. As a hair products manufacturer, we receive calls and emails daily from customers who have found they have mild or severe cases of flaking and itching and are looking for a solution. Using a shampoo formulated for dandruff works best – both to stop itching and flakes and to reduce excess sebum from sebaceous glands.
For many of us dandruff begins with an oily scalp. Excessive scalp and hair oil is produced that clogs follicle pores, traps dirt, and inflames scalp tissue. As irritation worsens, flakes form. Generally white or yellow-ish, flaking can become severe if oil is not reduced. The best shampoo for dandruff controls oils while “clarifying” and irrigating pores of dirt and bacteria.
Excess Scalp Oil Production Dirt and Grease Product Build-Up Bacteria and Fungus
As an important note, severe dryness can also cause scalp itch and flakes. Though this is a rare occurrence, it produces dandruff-like symptoms and requires a moisturizing shampoo for treatment. Using Emu Oil, Jojoba Oil, or Moroccan Oil as topical applications will reduce dryness while an Emu shampoo will provide daily relief and add moisture to the scalp and hair.
What to look for in the best shampoo
Zinc PCA is one of the most effective active ingredients used in shampoos for dandruff. Zinc PCA is a naturally-derived compound used extensively (and proven) to regulate oil production from sebaceous glands. Sebaceous glands are associated with follicle pores and produce sebum. Sebum protects the follicle shaft, adds moisture, and helps infuse nutrients.
Zinc PCA helps control over-active glands and reduces sebum. For most, this dramatically reduces itching and flaking.
We also recommend shampoos that are paraben-free and contain botanical extracts. Many inexpensive shampoos are harsh and use surfactants (the foaming action) to clean. While cleaning is good, the result can often be scalp irritation or slight allergic reactions…just enough to get the dandruff “engine” started.
Botanical extracts such as Sage, Ivy Burdock, or Thyme have been shown to work very well at cleaning while soothing irritation and reducing inflammation. They reduce itchiness, clean product build-up from styling aids, and work well for dandruff control.
The best dandruff shampoo addresses the primary causes of flaking and irritation and leaves your hair and scalp clean and refreshed.
Create a video blog
Dandruff can cause flakes, itchy scalp and inflammation. The best shampoo for dandruff addresses the underlying causes of dandruff while deep cleaning flakes, dirt and oil, and soothing inflammation.
Primary Causes
Dandruff may result from a variety of factors – excessive oil production on the scalp, bacteria or fungus, allergic reaction to shampoos and conditioners, or inflammation. As a hair products manufacturer, we receive calls and emails daily from customers who have found they have mild or severe cases of flaking and itching and are looking for a solution. Using a shampoo formulated for dandruff works best – both to stop itching and flakes and to reduce excess sebum from sebaceous glands.
For many of us dandruff begins with an oily scalp. Excessive scalp and hair oil is produced that clogs follicle pores, traps dirt, and inflames scalp tissue. As irritation worsens, flakes form. Generally white or yellow-ish, flaking can become severe if oil is not reduced. The best shampoo for dandruff controls oils while “clarifying” and irrigating pores of dirt and bacteria.
Excess Scalp Oil Production Dirt and Grease Product Build-Up Bacteria and Fungus
As an important note, severe dryness can also cause scalp itch and flakes. Though this is a rare occurrence, it produces dandruff-like symptoms and requires a moisturizing shampoo for treatment. Using Emu Oil, Jojoba Oil, or Moroccan Oil as topical applications will reduce dryness while an Emu shampoo will provide daily relief and add moisture to the scalp and hair.
What to look for in the best shampoo
Zinc PCA is one of the most effective active ingredients used in shampoos for dandruff. Zinc PCA is a naturally-derived compound used extensively (and proven) to regulate oil production from sebaceous glands. Sebaceous glands are associated with follicle pores and produce sebum. Sebum protects the follicle shaft, adds moisture, and helps infuse nutrients.
Zinc PCA helps control over-active glands and reduces sebum. For most, this dramatically reduces itching and flaking.
We also recommend shampoos that are paraben-free and contain botanical extracts. Many inexpensive shampoos are harsh and use surfactants (the foaming action) to clean. While cleaning is good, the result can often be scalp irritation or slight allergic reactions…just enough to get the dandruff “engine” started.
Botanical extracts such as Sage, Ivy Burdock, or Thyme have been shown to work very well at cleaning while soothing irritation and reducing inflammation. They reduce itchiness, clean product build-up from styling aids, and work well for dandruff control.
The best dandruff shampoo addresses the primary causes of flaking and irritation and leaves your hair and scalp clean and refreshed.
Create a video blog
Home Remedies For Dandruff – 2 Natural Dandruff Remedies You Can Make At Home
Dec 19th
Anne Cresacre asked:
Dandruff (pityriasis capitis), although extremely common, can still be a very annoying and unpleasant condition.
Thankfully it can be cured by using simple natural home remedies for dandruff that you can make quickly and easily.
The dandruff itself is usually a result of the excessive growth of yeast organisms such as Malassezia Globosa and Pityrosporum Ovale. These organisms are normally always present on the skin in small numbers and feed on the natural oil (sebum) secreted by your hair follicles. When they multiply they can irritate the skin and causing the visible flaking that we know as dandruff.
Other causes for dandruff are stress-related; the use of harsh shampoos and conditioners that dry out the scalp; poor nutrition; or cold, dry weather conditions.
Home Remedies For Dandruff
Apple Cider Vinegar has been used for centuries as an old folk remedy to successfully get rid of dandruff. The great thing about this remedy is the acidity of the vinegar helps to stabilize the pH balance of the scalp and kills the fungus. Try this recipe below and see how you go:
1) Thoroughly wash your hair with a mild, pH-balanced shampoo. There’s no need to use a dandruff shampoo as the apple cider vinegar will gradually get rid of the dandruff problem.
2) Mix a two-to-one ratio of apple cider vinegar and warm water (two vinegar to one water). If you want to cleanse and condition your scalp further and add a fragrance to your hair then you can always a couple of drops of essential oils such as lavender or rosemary – both excellent for getting rid of itchy scalps and dandruff. (Always patch test oils for allergies, and always consult your doctor if you are pregnant).
3) Pour or spray the mixture directly onto your scalp. Massage it in and leave to dry on your hair. There’s no need to rinse it out (unless the smell bothers you).
4) In cases of more stubborn dandruff, make the mixture stronger, try a one-to-one ratio of vinegar to water. Applying undiluted vinegar directly to the scalp can also do the trick. Leave it on for around 15 minutes and then wash the vinegar out using a mild, pH-balanced shampoo.
5)If possible always try to use raw undiluted apple cider vinegar as this will give the best results when getting rid of dandruff. Lemon juice can also be used instead of vinegar.
Fenugreek seeds are another excellent home remedy for dandruff:
Take 2 tablespoons of fenugreek seeds and soak overnight in water In the morning grind the soft seeds into a fine paste Apply this paste all over scalp and leave for half an hour Rinse off thoroughly with soap nut solution A teaspoon of lime juice on the last rinse will work wonders
In addition to these home remedies for dandruff, brushing your hair daily will help to disperse the dandruff from your hair and improve the circulation of your scalp. Giving your scalp a good massage before or after brushing will also help to improve circulation and remove flakiness.
Natural Dandruff Remedies That Really Works
Dec 19th
Nick Mutt asked:
Dandruff is an extremely annoying skin disorder of the scalp. It is a problem that affects half of the world population. There are many natural dandruff remedies that may help you to get rid of dandruff.
1. One of the common natural dandruff remedies is tea tree oil. Tea tree oil is an important ingredient of many anti-dandruff shampoos.
2. Add two spoonfuls pure vinegar in six spoonfuls water, and apply it on the scalp with cotton wool before going to bed. Wash your hair next morning. After shampooing, rinse again with vinegar water. Continue this once a week for at least three months.
3. Use a medicated anti-dandruff shampoo. It will reduce the speed of the growth of the cells on the scalp, thus lessening the cell replacement and decreasing the amount of dandruff. The shampoo should also have an antiseptic that will help prevent infection of your scalp so as to reduce itchiness.
4. Stop using hairsprays, gels and hair-coloring products. They are the main culprit that harms your hair and scalp.
5. Another natural dandruff remedy is neem oil. It gives relief from itchiness and redness of scalp associated with dandruff and psoriasis conditions.
6. Restrict yourself from changing shampoos everyday and stick to one that suits your constitution and scalp condition. Always keep the scalp clean by regular cleansing to prevent hair fall and other hair related problems.
7. Mix one teaspoon lemon juice with two teaspoons vinegar. Massage this mixture to the scalp. After massaging, apply egg shampoo to the hair. This is a very common natural dandruff remedy.
8. Boil two cups dried thyme and water in a span of 10 minutes. When the concoction cools, massage the hair and scalp and let it stay for half an hour. Then wash with water.
Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide health advice and is for general information only. Always seek the insights of a qualified health professional before embarking on any health program.
Itchy Scalp and Hair Loss – Are They Related Or Connected?
Dec 16th
Susane Dean asked:
An itchy scalp with hair loss is a common topic on many scalp condition and hair loss forums. It’s very common to wonder if the two are related, which came first, and which (if either) is perpetuating the other. The answers are important because this will determine the course of treatment and action.
Some Common Causes Of Itchy Scalp With Hair Loss: There are several situations and conditions that involve both scalp and hair. Sometimes, medical issues (hypothyroidism, going off of birth control pills, pregnancy, female or male pattern alopecia, or taking certain medications) can cause hair loss. In these cases, scalp itching, tingling, tenderness, or even pain can sometimes accompany a bunch of hair follicles dying off at one time. Sometimes your scalp will also itch when the hair is growing back. This is normal and once whatever the issue causing the hair loss is resolved, this should stop. In the meantime, you can use natural, non harmful anti-inflammatories like tea tree or jojoba oil to soothe inflammation and help with the symptoms.
Sometimes, though, there is a dermatological problem with the scalp that is also causing the hair loss. In these cases, the two are often strongly correlated and related to one another. So, in order to treat the hair loss, you’ll need to also treat your scalp and restore it to a healthy condition and vice versa.
Common conditions that cause both scalp itching and hair loss are: scalp ringworm; a yeast or other infection of the scalp; severe dandruff; dry scalp; psoriasis; cradle cap; or an allergic reaction to shampoo, hair products, hair dyes, or clothing detergent. (Sometimes even skin cream or make up that never even touches the scalp can cause problems in sensitive people.)
Treatments For Scalp Itch Accompanied By A Loss Of Hair: The treatment will depend on how severe the scalp condition is. Many feel it’s best to try the most natural, least irritating treatments first.
If you’re having problems with your hair and scalp, you have to realize that the skin is in essence injured. Pouring chemicals and harsh irritants on a wound can make it worse. If you take a careful look at the labels for many dandruff shampoos and scalp treatments, you’ll likely notice that some of the common ingredients in these products are known irritants that can damage and dry out your scalp further and do more harm than good.
Why Natural Alternatives Are Sometimes Preferred Since Chemicals Can Irritate Sensitive, Wounded Skin And Make The Problem Worse: Sometimes harsh products are only a temporary band aid that will eventually lose their effectiveness. When this happens, you have to keep pulling out bigger, harsher weapons (sometimes even steroids) to get the same results. Over time, nothing seems to work.
Believe it or not, there are natural ingredients that can very effectively soothe and treat a problem scalp with or without accompanying hair loss. Common examples are tea tree oil, apple cider vinegar, rosemary and lavender oils. These are even more potent in specific combined amounts.
Sometimes it’s hard for people to believe that simple, natural remedies can be both effective and healthy for your scalp and hair, but I believe that if you try them, you’ll likely be pleasantly surprised. Think about other cultures with beautiful, healthy heads of hair that lack many of the scalp disorders and diseases of Western countries. These folks likely wouldn’t dream of dousing themselves with chemicals, yet they don’t suffer these issues and their hair reflects this.
Treating The Shrinking Root Of The Problem: There are common triggers for scalp conditions. These vary from person to person, but if you can find and eliminate yours, this will go a very long way toward reducing the problem and making treatments much more effective and long lasting. Reoccurring scalp and hair loss conditions can shrink and cripple the hair follicle over time contributing to weak, compromised, thin hair so it’s important to fully but gently address all issues.