Beyond the itch: A deep dive into dandruff and effective methods for scalp care

Dandruff, characterised by the shedding of dead skin cells from the scalp and resulting in white or yellowish flakes entangled in hair or noticeable on shoulders, is a fairly common scalp  condition that affects about half the global adult population. While it is not a serious condition, it can cause considerable distress for those who experience it.

“Dandruff occurs when the outermost layer of the epidermis, known as the stratum corneum, is stripped away in batches and becomes visible,” explained Mr Katsuyuki Yuki, lead researcher at Kao’s Hair Care Lab in Japan.

Epidermal turnover is the natural cycle through which the outermost layer of the skin continuously sheds old or damaged skin cells and replaces them with new ones. When this cycle is disrupted by factors such as prolonged exposure to sebum and sweat, it can trigger the development of dandruff.

Contrary to popular belief, dandruff isn’t contagious, but it can lead to more complicated issues. “Dandruff may exacerbate gradual but regular hair loss (androgenetic alopecia),” Mr Yuki shared. “Prolonged dandruff can also cause damaged cuticles and thinning hair, as well as an increase in scalp problems such as redness, scaly patches and folliculitis.”

MANAGING DANDRUFF EFFECTIVELY

The key to managing dandruff is to nurture a healthy scalp and a robust skin barrier. When your scalp is adequately moisturised and shielded from external irritants, the issue of dandruff diminishes.

One way to do this is by maintaining optimal levels of ceramides, which is a type of lipid or fat molecule naturally occurring in the outermost layer of the skin. Ceramides play a crucial role in preserving the skin’s barrier function and overall health. They form part of a protective barrier that locks in moisture, prevents dehydration and shields the skin from environmental stressors such as pollutants and irritants. When ceramide levels drop below a healthy level, the skin barrier becomes compromised, leading to issues such as dryness, irritation and inflammation.

“Our skin is constantly producing ceramides, but we have to be mindful to select products that cleanse our scalps gently so as not to strip away these essential lipids,” Mr Yuki cautioned.

TAKING THE GENTLE APPROACH TO TREAT DANDRUFF

Mr Yuki recommends using a gentle shampoo like Curel’s Intensive Moisture Care Foaming Shampoo, which has been developed to thoroughly cleanse the scalp of excess dirt and sebum while protecting the ceramides in the scalp and therefore the skin barrier.

“The unique foam formula, which is gentle enough for daily use, allows users to effectively cleanse the scalp, removing dirt and impurities without the need for excessive scrubbing. This method minimises the risk of scalp irritation,” Mr Yuki explained.

Curel, which was launched in 1999, is Japan’s first skincare solution designed specifically for sensitive skin. Its unique approach focuses on protecting and replenishing ceramide function to boost the skin’s barrier function.

“Curel’s Intensive Moisture Care Foaming Shampoo rinses off easily and has a non-stripping formula that is free of fragrance, colourants and alcohol, making it perfect for sensitive or dry scalps and easing dandruff symptoms,” said Mr Yuki.

With proper scalp care, dandruff can be treated and kept under control, preserving hair health and keeping further complications at bay.

Curel is giving away 10 hampers (worth S$100), which include the Intensive Moisture Care Foaming Shampoo and refill. To stand a chance to win, fill in this form on Curel’s website before Apr 21, 2024.