Discover the cause of dandruff, how it forms, and its preferred breeding grounds.
It all starts with a microorganism naturally present on the scalp, Malassezia Globosa.
Although it is common on the scalp of all humans, it only causes dandruff in about 50% of the population.
What happens?
- Malassezia Globosa feeds on sebum, the natural lipid film produced by the scalp. This substance hydrates the hair and scalp.
- Under the action of the microorganism, sebum is broken down into a byproduct, oleic acid.
- In one out of two people, this oleic acid causes irritation of the scalp.
- The scalp reacts with inflammation and redness, and itching begins to be felt.
- The brain receives signals to evacuate epidermal cells at an accelerated rate, with the essential goal of getting rid of the irritating element as quickly as possible. These clumps of cells rejected by the skin become visible on the scalp, and often begin to scatter on the shoulders.
Other factors that can play a roleAlthough the origin of dandruff is always the same, some factors can worsen the problem, or seem to make the condition worse.
This can be due to the season, for example (summer and winter), or external irritants, such as pollution, and even personal habits damaging to the hair, such as repeated blow-drying and straightening.
Discover what promotes the appearance of dandruff:
- Summer and dandruff - How the hot season can worsen dandruff problems
- How stress can worsen dandruff problems
- Can an unsuitable shampoo be the cause of dandruff?
