Most people have heard of dandruff – the skin condition that causes flakes to appear on your scalp and in your hair. In fact, dandruff is more of a symptom than a condition in its own right – which we’ll discuss more later. 

Dandruff isn’t harmful, nor is it contagious – but at the same time, it can be unpleasant to deal with. You might find the flakes fall from your hair onto your clothing, which can make it more noticeable to people around you. It can also be uncomfortable, as one of the possible side effects is a dry and itchy scalp.

If you’re looking to try and get rid of your dandruff, then one thing that might help is understanding what can cause it so you can find effective anti-dandruff treatments and preventative measures.

Where does dandruff come from?

You might have heard that dandruff is caused by poor hygiene – but that isn’t the case. In fact, dandruff can be caused by a range of circumstances, from your overall health to the natural condition of your hair.

Below, we take a more in-depth look at some possible causes of dandruff.

Skin conditions

According to the NHS, dandruff can be caused by a number of skin conditions, including:

• Seborrheic dermatitis
• Eczema
• Psoriasis
• Contact dermatitis.

Many of these conditions cause itchy, dry and flaky skin as a whole, so it makes sense that the skin of the scalp could be affected, too. Anti-dandruff shampoos and other specialist hair products may help, but if the problem persists for longer than a month, then speaking to a healthcare professional may help you to find a solution.

If your dandruff is caused by a more general skin condition such as those listed above, then it’s likely you’ll see other symptoms – not just those associated with the hair and scalp. That can help you to decide whether you need a doctor or pharmacist’s advice.

Fungal infection

Another possible cause of dandruff is a yeast-like fungal infection.

Most people, even those with healthy hair, have a fungus called malassezia on their scalps. This fungus feeds on the oil on your scalp and hair known as sebum. The fungus then breaks down the oils it consumes, leaving the byproducts on your scalp – and this can cause mild irritation.

All of this is perfectly normal – it’s a natural process and nothing to worry about.

However, things can start to get out of hand if the fungus reproduces more rapidly than normal. This can happen if:

• You’re immunocompromised
• It’s very humid
• You’ve been sweating a lot
• You have an oily scalp.

If this affects you, it could be a temporary problem in some circumstances. For example, if you’ve been travelling in areas with a very humid climate, you might develop dandruff that resolves in time after you return to less humid areas.

For problems like immunocompromisation and having an oily scalp, anti-dandruff hair products may help to control the situation. If this doesn’t work, a medicated solution may be needed to tackle the malassezia fungus.

Oily scalp

As mentioned, an oily scalp can exacerbate the activity of the malassezia fungus, resulting in dandruff formation. That’s because those oils are the fungus’ food. If your hair or scalp is very oily, the fungus can eat lots and reproduce more quickly, leading to the problems described above.

Some people naturally produce more sebum or hair oils, while others don’t. But if this affects you, a hair care routine that helps to tackle excess oil production may be the best choice to keep dandruff at bay.

To that end, a shampoo that prioritises scalp health may be a good choice. For example, our Biotin Healthy Hair and Scalp daily shampoo contains pyrocton olamine, which targets fungal causes of dandruff, as well as thermal water, which serves to improve epithelial cell health and soothe sensitive scalps.

Dry scalp

At the other end of the spectrum, a scalp that’s overly dry can also lead to dandruff and scalp irritation. A lack of hydration can cause cells to die prematurely, leading to the shedding of the top layer of the scalp in small, whitish flakes.

The answer is to rehydrate the hair and scalp with a moisturising, nourishing hair care routine, like our Aqua Thermal range, which contains hydrating thermal water to restore moisture to your hair. At the same time, probiotics within the formula strengthen the natural protective barrier of the scalp to protect against future dandruff formation.

Sensitivity to hair products

Another common cause of dandruff is that something you’ve put in or on your hair is irritating your scalp – this may dry out the skin or prompt excess oil production. Most commonly, this happens when you have a sensitivity to something in your hair products, but it can also occur through exposure to chlorine or salt if you swim a lot.

If you think your swimming habits could be contributing to your scalp problems, then try wearing a swim hat. This should shield your hair and protect your scalp from irritation.

If that’s not the case, then the irritation is most likely down to one or more of the ingredients in your hair care products. You can be allergic to various ingredients including fragrances and hair dyes, but you might also just be sensitive to chemicals in your shampoo and conditioner.

There are a range of factors which can lead to dandruff formation – and while it may be possible to relieve dandruff through lifestyle changes, these can take time to take effect. For the quickest, most reliable results, try one of our proven anti-dandruff solutions – including our intensive anti-dandruff shampoo, designed for more severe cases of dandruff.

Sources:

• https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dandruff/
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dandruff/symptoms-causes/syc-20353850
• https://www.headandshoulders.co.in/en-in/healthy-hair-and-scalp/scalp/oily-scalp
• https://dermnetnz.org/topics/malassezia-infections
• https://www.kerastase.com.hk/en-hk/dandruff-and-a-dry-sensitive-scalp-discover-the-causes-and-how-to-treat-it
• https://www.headandshoulders.co.uk/en-gb/all-articles/dandruff/a-dandruff-sufferers-guide-to-hats/
• https://www.mydcsi.com/2023/05/12/is-saltwater-good-for-your-hair/
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11088418/

As the name suggests, a dry scalp occurs when there isn’t enough moisture in the scalp and hair, leading to flaking of the skin and irritation. This can be caused by a range of factors, including but not limited to low humidity, harsh hair products such as those containing parabens or an underlying skin condition such as eczema.

From appearances, a dry scalp can seem similar to dandruff, although dandruff is caused by excess oil on the scalp rather than a lack of hydration.

In the broadest terms, the best thing you can do for dry hair and a dry scalp is to rehydrate. In practice, though, it’s not always so simple to know what to do.

How to deal with a dry scalp

One of the biggest challenges when it comes to tackling a dry scalp is being sure that a dry scalp is the problem. As mentioned, the flaky skin and irritation associated with dry scalps are also commonly found in people who have dandruff.

If you have dandruff, the chances are that you’ll have other oily scalp symptoms, such as hair that feels greasy and heavy soon after being washed. A dry scalp, on the other hand, typically lends itself to dry hair. This can be a key sign.

Another point to note is that if you have a dry scalp, you may also have dry skin in other areas. The skin of the hands and your feet can easily become dry, so if you’re not hydrated enough, you’re likely to see it in other areas of your body as well as your scalp.

So, if it is a dry scalp, what should you do?

What is the best shampoo for a dry scalp?

Overly harsh formulas – shampoos that contain parabens, sulphates, phthalates, alcohols or synthetic fragrances and dyes – can dry out the scalp more by stripping away the natural oils (also known as sebum) that help to protect and moisturise your hair. Because of this, it’s better to choose a gentle, nourishing shampoo that can help to rehydrate both your hair and your scalp.

To do this, look for key hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid – a compound that is naturally found in humans and helps the body to retain more moisture. Zinc and vitamin B6 are good indicators too, as these nutrients help to protect the integrity of the scalp and reduce itching.

Although a dry scalp isn’t the same as dandruff, it can have many of the same symptoms, including itching, flaking and sensitivity. Our Aqua Thermal range aims to tackle these symptoms by restoring moisture to the scalp and balancing sebum production. What this means is that these products can help to ease both conditions – ideal if you’re not sure which problem is affecting your scalp.

Does conditioner help a dry scalp?

Hair conditioner is used to reintroduce moisture to the hair after shampooing, helping to keep the hair soft, flexible and resistant to breakage. Skipping conditioner can contribute to dry hair, so it’s a key part of your hair care routine you shouldn’t miss out on.

As a caveat, it’s best not to use conditioner directly on the scalp. This can lead to a buildup of sebum, grime and dirt, potentially resulting in an oily scalp or dandruff. Instead, condition the ends of your hair. Then, after you’ve given the conditioner a few minutes to get to work, rinse your hair thoroughly to ensure no residue is left behind.

Avoid using hot water to rinse your hair

Everyone is different, and some people prefer to have hot showers while others like colder temperatures. It’s a personal preference, but it could have a real impact on your hair and scalp health.

Hot water, in comparison to lukewarm or even cold water, can have a drying effect on the scalp that leads to irritation and redness. You might even risk scalding the scalp – so if the water feels hot on your skin, that’s a good indicator that it’s too hot to wash your hair and scalp with.

This is true for all hair types, but if you already have a dry scalp, hot water can make it worse. Instead, turn down the temperature a little when washing or rinsing your hair – a lukewarm temperature is best.

Some people suggest that washing your hair with hot water is fine as long as you rinse with cold water afterwards, but this is misleading. While it’s true that warmth helps to open up the cuticles to more effectively cleanse your hair, hot water is a step too far, and a cold rinse afterwards won’t help to repair any heat damage.

Air dry your hair

Blow drying your hair might feel like a quick and convenient option, but it could be a contributing factor towards a dry scalp. Just as it helps to dry your hair fast, high heat can dry out your scalp, evaporating the natural moisture that protects your skin.

If you do this often enough, you may experience a chronically dry scalp, paired with irritation, redness and itchiness in the affected areas. As a form of heat styling, blow drying can have similarly damaging effects to the use of curling tongs or straighteners – so your hair will thank you for avoiding it.

Blow drying can damage your hair as well as your scalp, so the best option is to move to air drying your hair as soon as possible. In some cases, though, that might not be achievable. If that’s the case, consider:

• Turning the heat down to the minimum setting
• Never aiming the hair dryer at the same spot for too long
• Always using a heat protectant spray before blow drying
• Using your hair dryer to dry your hair half the way, then finishing the job by air drying your hair.

Consider washing your hair less often

Since shampooing removes the natural, moisturising oils that protect your hair and scalp, it may help a dry scalp to wash your hair less often. This can allow your scalp more time to produce sebum between washes, helping to lubricate the skin and protect against irritation.

There’s no single right answer as to how often you should wash your hair, as it depends on a multitude of factors. However, a general rule is that people with oily hair should wash it more often (to reduce oil buildup), while those with dry hair should wash less frequently. Studies show that dry hair is also associated with excess breakage when washed frequently, so washing less often could help to restore volume and avoid unwanted hair fall.

If you have a dry scalp, there are plenty of things you can do to restore your hair’s natural moisture and shine. The tips and techniques discussed above should help your hair to look and feel more healthy with a little extra care and attention.

Sources:

• https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/23326-dry-scalp
• https://www.grapetree.co.uk/blog/how-to-treat-a-dry-scalp-causes-and-remedies
• https://hellojupiter.com/blogs/news/conditioning-your-hair-is-it-okay-to-condition-your-scalp
• https://www.headandshoulders.co.in/en-in/healthy-hair-and-scalp/hair-care/tips/hot-water-causes-dandruff
• https://headandshoulders.com/en-us/healthy-hair-and-scalp/hair-care/blow-drying-and-the-link-to-dandruff
• https://www.health.com/how-often-should-you-wash-your-hair-8349178

A slightly oily scalp isn’t necessarily a bad thing. All scalps produce oil to some extent – known as sebum – with the purpose of hydrating and protecting your hair strands. Problems can occur, however, when oil production goes into overdrive or when oil isn’t cleaned away effectively, leading to a buildup.

In this blog, we explore ways you can treat an oily scalp to get back to having healthy, happy hair.

How to help an oily scalp

Oily scalps can be caused by a number of contributing factors – not necessarily a single, definitive cause. That can sometimes mean that in order to solve the problem, you may need to try multiple remedies. It all depends on your personal health and hair care routine.

Take a break from styling products

Styling products such as hair mousse or styling wax can be very effective in helping you to get the hairstyle you love, but using them excessively can sometimes result in a buildup of residue near your scalp. The roots of your hair can easily be missed or skipped over when washing your hair, so sebum, dirt, grime and product residue can easily build up over time.

To resolve this problem, start by taking a break from using styling products. This can make it easier to flush out the residue without continually adding more.

Next, wash your hair thoroughly to remove the current buildup. A clarifying shampoo can help you to get a deep, meticulous cleanse of your hair and scalp to help resolve oily scalp problems.

Then, make sure to clean any tools you use on your hair as well. From brushes and hair scissors to straighteners and hairpins, anything that goes into your hair can pick up oil and product residue. If you clean your scalp, but not these frequently used tools, you risk reintroducing the product buildup to your hair.

Wash your hair regularly

We’ve mentioned doing a deep cleanse of your scalp in order to remove a buildup of oils and product residues, but it’s also important to do a normal wash of your hair regularly to prevent such a buildup in the first place.

The ideal number of times to wash your hair each week depends on factors like hair thickness. If you’re unsure, it can help to ask a haircare professional for advice. Generally speaking, washing your hair two to three times a week should be ample for most hair types.

When lathering up your hair with shampoo, try to avoid scratching at your scalp with your fingernails or applying too much pressure with your fingertips. This kind of scalp stimulation can actually cause your scalp to produce more oil, which could lead to more buildups in the future.

Choose a deep cleansing shampoo

If you wash your hair two to three times a week with good technique, but still find your hair feels greasy or oily, it may be the case that you need a shampoo specifically catered towards an oily scalp.

A deep cleansing shampoo is designed to trap oils, residue and dirt by acting as an emulsifier. Gently massaging it into your scalp helps to achieve full coverage, ensures you don’t miss any areas, and can help to loosen grime from the surface of your scalp. Then, when you rinse your hair, the dirt and residue are washed away along with the shampoo.

Our Biotin Daily Shampoo is specially formulated to provide a deep cleanse, with allantoin, piroctone olamine and zinc to promote a healthy, hydrated scalp for less irritation. It also contains a range of nutrients including vitamins B6 and B3 to help regulate sebum production to avoid an oily scalp.

A shampoo with natural ingredients like those discussed above will help to nourish and nurture your hair. Steer clear of shampoos with harsh ingredients like sulphates, parabens and phthalates, as these can strip the scalp of moisture and cause excessive oil production in response.

Use a lightweight conditioner

If you have an oily scalp, you may be tempted to skip conditioner. After all, you don’t need more moisture in your hair, right?

In actual fact, conditioner is just as necessary for oily hair as it is for any hair type. Avoiding conditioner can lead to a dry scalp, which could lead to an over-production of sebum as a countermeasure.

Instead, the key is to strike a healthy balance. Choose a light conditioner that will moisturise your strands, but steer clear of deep conditioners meant for very dry hair as these can be too heavy for oily scalps and may lead to a buildup of oil and product residue.

Crucially, your conditioner-applying technique can be just as important as the kind of conditioner you choose. If you have an oily scalp, avoid applying conditioner directly to your scalp. Instead, apply it to the ends of your hair. This helps to ensure that your scalp doesn’t get clogged with excess product residue.

Once you’ve allowed your conditioner to sit for a few minutes – check your chosen product for specific timings – rinse thoroughly to ensure all of it gets washed out of your hair. In some cases, your hair might feel oily due to leftover conditioner clinging to your hair strands.

To add moisture to the scalp itself, a hair serum like our Collagen and Biotin volumising hair serum can be helpful. Applied outside of the shower, this product helps to nourish the hair and scalp to balance sebum production and reduce oiliness.

An oily scalp can be frustrating, but there are plenty of things you can do to help resolve the problem. From choosing the right shampoo and conditioner to improving your hair washing techniques, combatting an oily scalp is all about perfecting your hair care routine to suit you.

What is Thermal Water?

Thermal water is a naturally occurring mineral-rich water that emerges from geothermal springs, where the water is heated by the temperature of the Earth’s core. This water is characterised by its unique composition, which can vary significantly depending on its source. Typically, thermal water is rich in essential minerals such as magnesium, calcium, silica and trace elements, each contributing to its therapeutic properties. The distinct mineral profile makes thermal water a sought-after ingredient in various skincare and hair care products due to its wide array of health benefits.

General Benefits of Thermal Water for Skin

Thermal water is renowned for its soothing and rejuvenating properties, making it a valuable asset in skincare. Its rich mineral content helps to hydrate and restore the skin’s moisture balance, combatting dryness and providing a calming effect for sensitive or irritated skin. The antioxidants present in thermal water also play a role in neutralising free radicals, thereby protecting the skin from environmental damage. 

Furthermore, its anti-inflammatory properties can aid in reducing redness and irritation, promoting a more balanced and healthy complexion. Overall, thermal water serves as a natural remedy that enhances skin health while offering a refreshing and revitalising feel.

Benefits of Thermal Water for Scalp and Hair

In addition to its benefits for the skin, thermal water also provides significant advantages for scalp and hair health. When incorporated into hair care products, the minerals in thermal water can help improve hydration levels, combatting scalp dryness that often leads to flakiness and irritation. This moisture boost supports a healthy scalp environment, which is crucial for optimal hair growth. 

Additionally, thermal water’s anti-inflammatory benefits can soothe an irritated scalp, reducing itching and discomfort. This combination of effects can significantly help in preventing dandruff formation, leading to healthier hair that is resilient and vibrant.

Bioxcin Thermal Water Anti-Dandruff Shampoos

Bioxcin Aqua Thermal Anti-Dandruff and Aqua Thermal Intense Anti-Dandruff DS shampoos are specifically formulated with high-quality thermal water rich in beneficial minerals. 

These shampoos are designed to effectively combat dandruff while nourishing the scalp. The incorporation of thermal water not only hydrates the scalp but also acts as a protective barrier against environmental stressors that can exacerbate scalp conditions. 

Regular use of our thermal water-based shampoos promotes long-term scalp health and improves hair vitality, leaving it soft and visibly healthier. With Bioxcin, you can trust that your hair care routine is enhanced by the powerful benefits of thermal water.

Benefits of Bioxcin Thermal Water Components

Mineral Content and Corresponding Benefits:

Moisture and Hydration:

• Sodium: Sodium plays a crucial role in maintaining balanced moisture levels in the scalp without contributing to excess oiliness. It helps to retain adequate hydration, which is essential for a healthy scalp and hair.
• Calcium: Calcium is vital for supporting the skin barrier, a key component in preventing transepidermal water loss (losing water through the skin). By enhancing the skin barrier function, calcium helps retain moisture, thereby reducing dryness and promoting overall scalp health.

Soothing and Comforting:

• Magnesium: Magnesium is recognised for its calming properties, which can help alleviate scalp irritation and discomfort. Its soothing effects make it beneficial for sensitive skin, contributing to a more comfortable scalp environment.
• Zinc: Zinc is known for its ability to support scalp health by alleviating discomfort and irritation. It helps maintain a more balanced and relaxed scalp, potentially reducing the occurrence of itching and sensitivity.

Cleansing and Balancing:

• Sulphate: Sulphates serve as effective cleansing agents that help remove built-up flakes and debris from the scalp. By promoting a clean scalp environment, sulphates can help reduce the factors associated with dandruff.
• Bicarbonates: Bicarbonates contribute to maintaining the pH balance of the scalp, which is important for preventing excessive oiliness. Proper pH levels can support scalp health and hair cleanliness, making it less prone to issues such as irritation or dandruff.

Supporting Scalp Vitality:

• Iron: Iron plays a significant role in improving circulation in the scalp. Enhanced blood flow can be beneficial for delivering essential nutrients to hair follicles, thereby supporting overall scalp vitality.
• Silica: Silica is often associated with promoting skin and hair health. Its presence can support the structural integrity of hair strands, contributing to improved strength and resilience.

Nourishing and Strengthening:

• Fluoride: Fluoride helps support the overall health of both hair and scalp by promoting stronger hair shafts and potentially enhancing the overall protective quality of the scalp.
• Manganese: Manganese is linked to maintaining skin health and can aid in nourishing the scalp. Its role in supporting cellular processes contributes to a healthy and well-cared-for scalp.

Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a common skin condition that causes itchy and flaky skin, often appearing on oily and hairy areas of the body. Characterised by redness and scaling, this condition affects approximately 4% of the population. Understanding its causes, symptoms and treatment options is crucial for managing the condition effectively.

Commonly occurring as dandruff on the scalp, seborrhoeic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition associated with an overproduction of sebum. This excess sebum creates an environment that encourages the growth of a fungus known as Malassezia, which is naturally present on the skin. When sebum levels rise, Malassezia can multiply excessively, leading to an imbalance in the skin’s microbiome. 

This overgrowth triggers an inflammatory response, causing irritation and skin redness. This results in increased flaking and shedding of skin cells, which presents as visible dandruff. Effective management of seborrheic dermatitis typically involves controlling sebum production and the growth of Malassezia to restore scalp health and reduce symptoms.

Possible Causes of Seborrhoeic Dermatitis

While the exact causes of seborrhoeic dermatitis remain unclear, several factors may contribute to its onset:

1. Natural Aging: As we age, changes in oil production can make this condition more likely to develop.
2. Hormonal Imbalances: Fluctuations in hormones can lead to increased oil production, providing a fertile breeding ground for Malassezia.
3. Skin Conditions: Conditions such as eczema or psoriasis can exacerbate seborrhoeic dermatitis.
4. Stress: Increased stress levels can trigger or worsen the condition.
5. Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of essential nutrients such as zinc, iron and B vitamins can worsen the condition.

 Main Symptoms of Seborrhoeic Dermatitis

The primary symptoms of seborrhoeic dermatitis include:

• Red, inflamed patches of skin
• Flaky, white or yellowish scales
• Itching or burning sensations
• Oily skin and hair.

Bioxcin Aqua Thermal Intensive Anti-Dandruff DS (Dermatological Shampoo) is expertly formulated to effectively manage seborrhoeic dermatitis and combat dandruff. This powerful shampoo combines the unique benefits of mineral-rich thermal water with potent active ingredients such as Piroctone olamine, zinc, salicylic acid, glycolic acid and probiotics, making it a holistic solution for your scalp health.

Key Ingredients and Their Functions:

1. Thermal Water:
   • Enriched with essential minerals, thermal water soothes and hydrates the scalp, promoting a healthier environment for hair growth. Its unique composition helps reduce inflammation and improve skin barrier function.
2. Piroctone Olamine:
   • This antifungal and antibacterial agent effectively targets Malassezia fungi, a major cause of dandruff. By inhibiting its growth, piroctone olamine significantly reduces the risk of dandruff formation and associated scalp irritation.
3. Zinc:
   • Zinc plays a crucial role in skin health, promoting the healing of irritated skin and supporting the immune system’s response to fungal infections. It helps maintain the natural balance of the scalp, reducing microbial growth and inflammation.
4. Salicylic Acid:
   • Known for its exfoliating properties, salicylic acid helps to remove dead skin cells and reduce flaking. It unclogs hair follicles, preventing build-up that can lead to dandruff while promoting a healthier scalp environment.
5. Glycolic Acid:
   • This alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) aids in exfoliation and improves skin texture by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells. Glycolic acid also enhances the penetration of other active ingredients, maximising their effectiveness.
6. Probiotics and Vitamin B6:
   • Probiotics support a balanced scalp microbiome, strengthening the skin’s natural barrier and promoting overall scalp health. Vitamin B6 helps alleviate itching and irritation, providing relief for sensitive scalps.
7. Niacinamide:
   • This powerful ingredient helps balance oil production, ensuring that the scalp maintains an even condition. Niacinamide also has anti-inflammatory properties, further supporting scalp health.

Step-by-Step Usage Instructions

1. Wet Hair: Thoroughly wet your hair before application.
2. Apply Shampoo: Massage a generous amount of shampoo into your scalp, allowing it to foam.
3. Leave On: Leave the shampoo on your scalp for at least 3 minutes to allow the active ingredients to penetrate effectively.
4. Rinse: Rinse thoroughly with water. If necessary, repeat the application for added effectiveness.
5. Frequency: Use the shampoo three times a week for a maximum of three weeks. Avoid using it for more than three consecutive weeks to maintain the scalp’s natural microflora.

Note: Bioxcin Aqua Thermal Intense Anti-Dandruff Shampoo is also suitable for use on other areas of the body affected by seborrhoeic dermatitis, including the face.