Dandruff!

[Max4545]

Hello, I am 21 and have been really stressed for the past year or so.  I think this resulted in me developing serious dandruff. its been a problem for a while now. I think there is some hairloss and scalp is very dry and itchy.  Everytime I run my fingers through my hand i can see flakes falling down.  I plan on shaving my head and start applying some cream. Can you recommend any medicine or any remedies. I would really appreciate some help.

thank you,
max.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

Dandruff is associated with a tiny fungus called Pityrosporum ovale, or P. ovale for short. This fungus lives on our bodies and scalp all the time, usually without causing a problem. Unfortunately, for some people, it can get out of control -- leading to dandruff.

Eat a healthy diet. You can also take vit B6 and vit A and E which are good for hair and skin. Try medicated shampoos for dandruff. There are a number of over-the-counter shampoos available that can help. The most effective ingredients -- antimicrobials -- to look for are zinc pyridinethione, selenium sulfide, sulfur and ketoconazole (also available by prescription). If your hair is colored, don't use products with selenium sulfide or sulfur.

If the symptoms persist please consult a trichologist for the confirmatory diagnosis and treatment.

Hope it helps. Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional queries.Kind regards.

[m_attar]

I am 22 years old. A year that my hair is oily and hair loss. I have stress also vitiligo Please guide