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Every day, as part of the usual renewal process, our scalp repels cells. Usually they are so little they go unnoticed. It is a different story when a fungal infection is involved. Depending on the intensity of settlement, the symptoms can range from simple scalp scaling to a seborrhoic eczema. Dandruff then is more than just a cosmetic problem.

Under normal circumstances, the sebaceous glands keep the horny skin layer supple, and, using a skin pH value, protect healthy skin from bacteria and fungi. The functioning of this protective coat can be disturbed by changes in the production or makeup of sebum as well as an over- or underfunctioning of the sebaceous glands. Bacteria and fungi find an ideal culture medium on a scalp that has become vulnerable. The yeast fungus malassezia furfur, normally part of the natural skin flora, is seen as the main cause. However, when it is out of control, it causes itching and inflammation. As a self-protective measure, the scalp reacts with an increased build up of horny tissue in the epidermis. Often the process of becoming horny is incomplete, so that cells are cast off in entire cell formations - dandruff.
When it runs a light course, one talks of simple scalp scaling. In contrast, reddening, itching and scaling are the classic symptoms of the seborrhoic eczema, which prefers to spread in those regions of the body containing sebum. Amongst others, the eczema may wet, and also appear on face, neck and upper body. Using suitable drugs, the itchiness can be checked, and an excessive settling of fungi halted.

In order to get rid of dandruff altogether in the long run, the underlying causes should be treated and normal cell-renewal as well as protective functioning of the skin pH value be restored.