Scalp Problems

It is not uncommon for individuals to suffer from scalp problems.  Most products are geared more to the hair and not the scalp, yet this is where most problems occur.   Some typical scalp problems are itch, flaking, oily scalp, dry scalp and scalp acne. 

Scalp itchy or itchy scalp and flaking are problem the most common complaint.  This may be caused by dandruff.  Dandruff flakes are relatively large and usually accompanied by scalp itch.  Some cases are worse with mounds of attached flakes on the scalp.  Most dandruff is caused by a fungus.  Seborrheic dermatitis also causes flaking and itching.  Scales from on the head with this condition.  They tend to be yellowish in color and often form over red irritated skin. 

A dry scalp will also cause flakes, but they are usually very small.  The scalp may become dry from chemical in the many hair products used.  Climate conditions also often cause the scalp to become too dry.   

At times the scalp may become is too oily.  Oil on the scalp is produced by the sebum gland.  When it overproduces too much oil can accumulate on the scalp.  An oily scalp also leads to many problems like scalp bumps and seborrhea on the scalp. 

Acne is also a common scalp problem that either be large pustule type acne or they can be small tiny red bumps on the scalp..  It is similar to facial acne.  It should not be treated with acne products that are used on the face.  They tend to be very drying and may also damage or bleach hair that can cause lasting problems to both the hair and the scalp.    

The key to a healthy scalp is the correct balance of oil.  An overly dry or even an inverse problem like a too oily scalp leads to many problems.  Most products that say they will help scalp problems are actually filled with harsh chemical that dry the scalp more.  Natural ingredients like zinc, jojoba oil, and emu oil are much better at balancing the scalp.  Zinc works naturally by regulating the sebum gland.  Jojoba oil and other similar oils like emu oil shampoo work to moisturize and balance the scalp.

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How to Help Seborrheic Dermatitis 

Seborrheic Dermatitis is a skin disease which occurs due to many environmental and physiological reasons. It is also commonly known as eczema. Although it is not a contagious disease by itself, the causes of eczema can be contagious. 

• Environmental reasons:

Lack of moisture in the air can aggravate the risk of eczema. Many chemical compounds mixed with the surrounding air can cause Seborrheic Dermatitis in someone. This is especially important for those who are allergic to many substances and compounds. Pollen from plants and salts from rainwater can also be the cause for the disease. 

• Physiological problems:

Sometimes human skin refuses to produce the natural oils necessary to remove dead skin and replace it with old ones. Lack of natural body oil causes the skin flakes to remain on the skin surface, inhibiting the growth of new skin.

Low immune system can also be the cause for Seborrheic Dermatitis. 

• Food habits:

Saturated fats and complex sugar can be harmful to someone who already has dry skin. This can aggravate the situation and cause eczema. Excessive carbohydrates in the diet can give rise to Candida which is also one of the chief causes of Seborrheic Dermatitis.

Lack of water in the system can also cause skin to dry up due to dehydration. 

Precautions and treatment 

1. Anyone suffering from eczema has to understand that the chances of complete cure may not be viable in most of the cases. However, through controlled habits and medication life can go back to normal in course of time. Certain climatic conditions are responsible for the severity of eczema. Summer and monsoon are seasons during which eczema patients suffer the most. Both seasons are uncomfortable and the breeding period of most bacteria and fungi. This raises the chances of these micro organisms attacking the immune system of the patient and making things worse for him/her.

1. Eating habits need to change drastically. Those suffering from Seborrheic Dermatitis need to stay away from carbohydrates as much as possible. Complex sugar and fats are a complete no-no. Stick to high protein diet. Also stay away from lactose compounds such as milk, curd, cheese, butter and cottage cheese. Instead have soy products. Lactose bacteria can aggravate eczema conditions.

1. Wash body with warm water and use gentle bath soap. Don’t scrub too much. Don’t use la bar soap or pumice stone to rub your body during a bath. Use a loofah and a mild liquid body wash for this purpose. Stay away from products that contain high levels of detergents as this will make your skin drier.
2. Wash your clothes separately to avoid chances of them catching on to some bacteria or fungi from elsewhere.

1. Use intensive moisturizers and sun protectors to hydrate your skin and avoid UV rays directly hitting your skin. Don’t use razors or other hair removing products on the skin as this will worsen the flaky condition of the skin.
2. Drink lots of water and consume a lot of green vegetables. Also include beta carotene compounds (carrots, radish and beetroot) into your daily diet to strengthen your immune system.

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