How to treat dandruff in children : causes and treatment
Identify the causes of dandruff in children.
Several factors can cause dry scalp and dandruff in children. These are:
1. Poor dietary balance
Deficiencies in nutrients such as zinc, niacin, riboflavin, and pyridoxine can cause conditions similar to seborrheic dermatitis. However, the mechanism is still unknown (1). Many children are picky eaters and prefer unhealthy junk food over a balanced diet. This unbalanced diet can lead to nutritional deficiencies and dandruff.
2. Sensitivity to Shampoo and Conditioner
Several ingredients in shampoos and conditioners can sensitize the scalp, causing dryness, itching, flaking, and dandruff-like symptoms. To avoid this, use hair care products recommended by your pediatrician.
3. Malassezia
Molds such as Malassezia and yeast can cause dandruff. Two variants, M. globosa and M. restriction , cause dandruff. However, Malassezia is commonly found in oily skin (2). It can cause dandruff in growing children who are reaching puberty and going through hormonal changes.
4. Inappropriate Shampoo
Improper cleaning and rinsing techniques after shampooing can cause product build-up. Accumulation of dust and dirt can worsen the condition and cause scalp dryness, itching, and peeling.
5. Eczema
Seborrheic eczema is a condition that causes itchy, red, scaly spots and dandruff. This condition affects the scalp and all oil-producing areas and can cause dandruff in children. Dandruff is common in adolescence. Read on to learn more.
Sixth. Cradle Cap
Cradle cap is a type of seborrheic dermatitis in children. This condition causes flaky, hard, oily patches on your child’s scalp and causes itching and discomfort.
Puberty and dandruff
Dandruff is common during puberty, which begins at any age between the ages of 8 and 14. Hormonal changes during this period can cause excessive sebum production. Eat Malassezia skin lipids (3). This leads to dandruff.
Learn about the signs and symptoms of dandruff in children.
Children’s Signs and Symptoms of Dandruff
The most identifiable signs and symptoms of dandruff in children include:
- Visible white patches on the scalp and clothing
- Persistent itching
- Red, inflamed patches on the scalp
If your child’s scalp shows some or all of the symptoms, you should talk to your pediatrician and start treatment right away. This is because, untreated, dandruff can affect scalp health.
Children’s scalps are particularly vulnerable to dandruff.
Untreated dandruff can cause persistent itching and scratching, which can result in:
- damaged scalp skin
- cause redness.
- Damage to hair follicles causes hair loss.
- Other bacterial infections (due to itching and scratching)
Early treatment can minimize the chances of major scalp problems in children. The following sections describe medications and natural remedies for treating dandruff in children.
Treatment of dandruff in children
Use of medicinal shampoos
Medicinal dandruff shampoos contain antifungal ingredients (such as ketoconazole) for dry, itchy scalps and Malassezia growth. However, consult your pediatrician for product recommendations based on your child’s age and the severity of dandruff.
You can also use natural home remedies to manage dandruff and keep your scalp healthy.
Home remedies to treat dandruff in children
1. Extract of Fenugreek
Fenugreek leaf extract can help prevent it. minimizes Malassezia growth and dandruff and other fungal infections (4). Grind fenugreek leaves into a paste and massage into your child’s scalp. Leave it on for 15–30 minutes and then wash it off.
2. Yogurt
Oral intake of probiotics may improve skin barrier function and reduce dandruff (5).
Confused about when to contact your doctor for treatment? Read on for clarity!
Contact your doctor.
It is recommended to visit a doctor if:
- In addition to dandruff, the child has rashes on other parts of the body.
- Anti-dandruff shampoos do not work for several weeks.
- I kept scratching and my scalp became red.
- The child has a weak immune system.
Last thoughts
Dandruff is common in children and is not a major problem if treated properly. Children often do not understand what it means and can scratch the scalp, making the condition worse. That’s why early detection is so important. Keep your child’s scalp healthy and dandruff-free by maintaining proper scalp hygiene and using products recommended by your pediatrician.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are medicated shampoos harmful to children?
No, medicinal shampoos are not harmful to children. However, the concentration of the drug varies according to the age group. Always consult your pediatrician before using any medicated shampoo for children.