It is totally natural to assume that dandruff and hair loss are related. You could easily assume the itchy flaking conditions associated with dandruff cause hair loss. There are so many questions. What is the real relationship?
Is hair loss just genetic, or can it be stopped? Will the treatments for hair loss help with my dandruff or will it make it worse? Are there treatments that work for both hair loss and dandruff?
Dandruff affects nearly half the people at some time in their lives. Not all of them suffer thinning hair or baldness. And alternatively, not everyone who suffers hair fall, also has to deal with the itching and flaking dandruff. That is not to say that there is no relationship. Does dandruff cause hair loss or is it the other way around?
Hair loss patterns are not directly caused by dandruff. Dandruff is a scalp condition and hair loss comes from conditions affecting hair follicles. There is, however, indirect relationship between the two.
Often, when showering, you can visibly see your hair coming out. Many people think that if your shampoo too often, your scalp will dry out and this will lead to more hair loss. Unfortunately, by letting your hair go several days between shampoos, your dandruff condition will just worsen while your hair loss continues at the same rate as before. After several days of not washing your hair, the loose hairs accumulate and when next in the shower it appears as if you are losing more hair.
Scratching and hair loss
The real relationship is a bit more complex. Will dandruff cause hair loss? Not directly, but the itching and scratching will cause a mechanical loss of hair. You are essentially pulling and scraping the hair out of your head.
Side effects of hair loss medication
Hair loss and dandruff can be associated in another way. Often, the medication prescribed for hair loss can irritate your scalp and cause the itching and flaking dandruff reaction. Minoxidil, which has been used to treat thinning hair, can cause dandruff-like conditions. Alcohol, which is used in Minoxidil, can dry the scalp over time leading to itching and scaling.
If this occurs, try using a dandruff shampoo several times a week or if that does not work, try switching your hair thinning medication.
Fortunately, many of the methods for controlling dandruff will also help give you a healthy head of hair.
How to get a healthy head of hair?
I know you have heard this before, but diet is the starting point to your health, including your hair and scalp. Eat plenty of fruit and green leafy vegetables for vitamin C and zinc. Include quality protein from lean meat, fish and beans. Peanuts, sunflower seeds and cashews are a good source of vitamin B6, an important vitamin for healthy hair.
Stay away from sweets and processed foods. When shopping, try to stay out of the isles and work the perimeter of the store.
The conditions that will make dandruff cause hair loss are controllable. By getting your dandruff under control, you will stop all the scratching and pulling on your hair.
Best remedies for dandruff and hair loss
If you want to try some natural solutions first than take a look at 10 Ways to Prevent and Get Rid of Dandruff. There are numerous natural applications that can be used.
Try keeping your dandruff under control by rinsing your hair with an Apple Cider Vinegar at least once a week. Aspirin, the great cure-all, is also useful in controlling dandruff. Aspirin contains Salicylic Acid, the active ingredient in many over the counter dandruff shampoos.
Another great homemade solution is the common egg yolk. Egg yolks contain many of the nutrients necessary for healthy hair. Vitamins A, D and E are present and are important to nourish hair. Vitamins A and E work to prevent thinning of hair while vitamin D helps improve hair texture.
Also please take a look at our complete comparison chart for more in-depth information about the best working anti-dandruff shampoos.
On the other hand, if you are searching for the best loss hair shampoo, I definitely recommend checking Pura d’or Premium Organic Anti-Hair Loss Shampoo, it doesn`t contain any harsh chemicals and it`s number one Amazon best seller since 2012.
In Conclusion
So the answer to the question “Does dandruff cause hair loss?” is not directly. But they are related and the treatments used for dandruff will help with limiting hair loss.
Your experience is important to share. What has been your experience with dandruff and hair loss? Have you tried any medications to stop or grow back lost hair? Have they been successful? Are there any side effects?
Your experience is valuable and your comments are welcome.
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