Let’s talk about a problem that most of us are familiar with, not just by hearsay. Oh, those annoying tiny flakes on the scalp! And their constant companion — the strong, sometimes unbearable itch. Do you know what I’m talking about?
That's right, dandruff. Let’s break down the main causes of its appearance.

▪️Fungal Infections
The most common cause of dandruff is the fungus *Malassezia*, which provokes accelerated skin cell renewal. This microorganism feeds on sebum, and the by-products of its metabolism irritate the skin. As a result, inflammation, itching, and characteristic white flakes appear.

▪️Improper Hair Care
Experts in dermatology and trichology have proven that frequent washing with aggressive products disrupts the microbiota of the scalp. Hot water and excessive styling are also harmful. All of this weakens the skin's protective barrier and creates favorable conditions for the appearance of dandruff.

▪️Stress
Chronic stress, lack of rest and sleep — this is something that will inevitably affect health sooner or later. The scalp is no exception.
Stress disrupts hormonal balance and lowers immunity. As a result, the scalp becomes more vulnerable. This can trigger dryness, flaking, and the appearance of dandruff.

▪️Nutrition
Everyone knows about the harms of sugar and trans fats these days. But few think about the fact that these foods can disrupt the natural balance of the skin microbiota, which often becomes the cause of dandruff. It’s simple: a deficiency of B vitamins, zinc, and fatty acids worsens skin regeneration and increases dryness and flaking. Conclusion: what we eat directly affects the pH level of the scalp, its overall condition, and the amount of sebum produced.

▪️Skin Conditions
Dandruff can be a symptom of serious health problems: seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, or eczema. These conditions require a professional approach and careful selection of treatment. Self-treatment can only worsen the symptoms and even lead to chronic skin inflammation.

So, how can we get rid of dandruff? Here are a few tips that will help you forget about it for a long time:

✔️Use Specialized Shampoos
Choosing a shampoo with antifungal components, such as salicylic acid, zinc pyrithione, or selenium sulfide, effectively helps fight dandruff.These products reduce inflammation, regulate sebaceous gland function, and suppress the growth of Malassezia fungus. It’s important: before starting to use them, consult a doctor and make sure the cause of the dandruff is indeed a fungus.

✔️Gentle Hair Care
Avoid washing your hair with water that is too hot and frequent use of aggressive shampoos with SLS.
Regularly use mild hair care products and avoid overusing styling products. Remember: damaged skin retains moisture worse and is more prone to irritation.

✔️Stress Management
Practice relaxation techniques — meditation, yoga, walks in the fresh air. Perhaps such advice is already tedious to you, but trust me: it’s crucial for your health.
Reducing stress levels normalizes the hormonal system and strengthens immunity. In addition, it’s proven that emotional well-being directly affects the health of the skin.

✔️Balanced Nutrition
Include foods rich in B vitamins, zinc, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids in your diet.
Limit the consumption of sugar, alcohol, and fast food — they increase inflammation and can disrupt the function of sebaceous glands. Proper nutrition = healthy skin barrier function.

✔️Consult a Specialist
In any case, if dandruff persists for more than 6 weeks, it’s worth seeing a trichologist or dermatologist.

The doctor will select individual therapy and rule out skin conditions that require a specific approach.

As you can see, dandruff is not just an aesthetic problem. It’s a clear signal from the body that it’s time to pay more attention to it. Thoughtful care, a healthy lifestyle, and timely consultation with a specialist will help you forget about dandruff.