Dandruff and alopecia areata
Dandruff is caused by the Malassezia globosa fungus. This yeast-like fungus lives on all our scalps, and is usually harmless.
In some cases, however, one’s personal sensitivity to oleic acid – a by-product of Malassezia globosa’s life-cycle – can lead to dandruff symptoms:
itchiness
white flakes in the hair
red, irritated scalp
If you do suffer from dandruff, dealing with the problem is relatively simple. Using a dandruff shampoo regularly – ideally every day- will take care of the problem and keep it from coming back. If dandruff is the problem, you should see flaking improvement within 2-3 weeks.
Alopecia areata, on the other hand, is an autoimmune disease. The immune systems of alopecia areata sufferers attacks their hair follicles, which house the roots of hair.
This leads to hair loss in patches on the scalp and elsewhere. In severe cases, the hair on the entire body can fall out.
All is not lost, however. Although the immune system attacks your hair follicles, it doesn’t necessarily kill them. This means that the hair can grow back.
Nails are often a tell-tale sign of alopecia areata, with sufferers experiencing pitting, dullness and thinning of their nails, among other symptoms.