Is Dandruff Contagious? Let’s Find Out The Truth
Dandruff is that annoying scalp condition that most of us have dealt with at least once. It is characterised by flaky skin on the scalp and itching that can be embarrassing and uncomfortable. Though not a serious medical condition, there are a lot of myths and misconceptions about dandruff, the most common being that it is contagious.
In this blog, we will answer the persistent question, “Is dandruff contagious?” and bunk some other myths surrounding dandruff.
Is Dandruff Contagious?
Before answering this question, let’s first understand what are the possible root causes of dandruff. Dandruff is a skin condition caused by fungal growth and excess sebum production. Certain factors like weather changes, hormonal fluctuations, stress or even inadequate shampooing can aggravate this condition. For most people, it is a recurring condition, which means it keeps coming back.
Now, coming to the much-awaited answer - No, dandruff is not contagious. Dandruff is not something that can be passed from one person to another. This means that you cannot “catch” dandruff, nor can you pass it to people around you. This is because everybody has different sensitivity levels to dandruff-causing factors.
While you can't catch dandruff from someone else, you might have inherited a genetic predisposition to it. This predisposition is related to your skin's sensitivity to a substance called oleic acid. If your scalp produces excess oil, it won't cause dandruff unless your skin is sensitive to oleic acid. So, this sensitivity is a trait that can be passed down through families.
Other Dandruff Myths
- Myth: Dandruff only occurs on a dirty scalp
- Myth: Dandruff is caused by dry scalp
- Myth: Pollution has nothing to do with dandruff
- Myth: Dandruff leads to hair loss
- Myth: Dandruff can be cured by any shampoo
Fact: Poor hygiene is not a direct cause of dandruff. While infrequent washing can contribute to flakiness. Dandruff primarily results from a combination of factors like skin cell production and fungal presence.
Fact: Dandruff and dry scalp are not the same. Dandruff is often associated with an oily scalp, whereas a dry scalp is usually devoid of sufficient moisture.
Pro-tip: If you have dry and damaged hair, you can try Redken’s high-performance shampoos and conditioners that can help clean your scalp while maintaining its hydration and pH levels.
Fact: Pollution can aggravate dandruff flare-ups. Dirt and pollution that settles on the scalp can clog the pores and upset the scalp’s natural oil balance.
Fact: Dandruff itself does not cause hair loss. However, excessive scratching due to itchiness can damage hair follicles, potentially leading to hair breakage.
Fact: If you have recurring dandruff, you need a shampoo that not only cleanses your scalp but also addresses the root cause of your scalp issues. A specialised dandruff control shampoo can help, which not only removes all grime, grease and visible flakes of dandruff but also prevents stubborn flakes from recurring.
Here’s What You Can Do To Control Dandruff
Choosing the right hair cleanser can make all the difference in dealing with dandruff. You should choose a shampoo that cleanses your scalp without stripping it of its natural oils or disturbing the pH levels. An excellent option could be a pH-balancing shampoo that has scalp-soothing properties. Mint is known for its invigorating and soothing properties, making it an excellent ingredient to look for in your shampoo.
Understanding the root causes of dandruff dispels most of the worries surrounding the dreaded question “Is Dandruff Communicable?”. Even though it is a recurring condition in many people, it can be managed with a proper hair care routine and focused treatment. If your dandruff is severe, you may want to see a doctor or dermatologist.
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