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Q: Is excessive dandruff related to eczema and what can I do to remedy the problem?

Dandruff and eczema are part of a group of skin conditions called dermatitis.  What dermatitis means is that you have inflammation occurring in certain parts of the skin.  This inflammation can contribute to you feeling sensations (eg, itching) or make the skin look different (eg, redness or dry flakes of skin).   

Dandruff (also known as seborrheic dermatitis) causes the skin to get red and scaly often in areas where there is too much oil such as the scalp, face, and chest.  Itchiness is also part of the package and can be very frustrating.   For those who have been diagnosed with dandruff, there are several treatments out there.  I’m sure many of you have seen the medicated shampoos in the stores that help in getting rid of dandruff.  These daily shampoos usually keep the dandruff from getting worse and can be used as a first option.  Tea tree oil has also been used as a “natural” remedy for dandruff.  Your doctor can prescribe  stronger medicated shampoos and creams to also help in stopping the inflammation.

Q: I’ve heard that you can have fungal infections of the scalp, is that true? How do I protect against that?

Yes, you can have a fungal infection of the scalp.  It is actually called tinea capitis and it almost always happens more in kids than in adults.  It is very similar to the ringworm infection that you may have heard of.  When the fungus invades your scalp, it causes balding of an area of skin (aka patch).  This patch can look red and/or scaly.   There may be a single patch or multiple patches on the scalp.  Tinea capitis is often obtained through someone who has it and who you frequently are in contact with (eg, family).   However, it is not restricted to just humans.  Dogs and cats can also get the fungal infection and transfer them to you.  So, it is not unusual to see all family members be treated once someone is found to have the infection.  It is also not unusual for pets to get treated as well.  Treatment usually involves antifungal pills that your doctor can prescribe to you.  As far as how can you protect against it, that is very hard to do because not everyone knows when they become infected.  I would say that protection should involve avoiding sharing items such as combs, hats, and brushes with anyone who may be infected.

Dr. Mercy Edionwe is a physician specializing in internal medicine. She earned her medical degree at the University of Texas Medical Branch, and afterwards, completed an internal medicine residency at the University of Arizona in Tucson, AZ. During her free time, she loves to write and educate the public on medical issues. She currently resides in Texas. You can follow her on Twitter at @fuchsiamd.

Disclaimer: The information contained here are intended solely for the general information of the reader.  It is not to be used for treatment purposes, but rather for discussion between you and your physician.  Please consult your physician for further information in regards to your own general care.  Knowledge is power!  Be informed.

By Chrissi J

For women with natural hair, we always ask 101 questions about our hair to figure out when it will grow, to know what products work for other people, to understand how to maintain our strands and more. But in the midst of trying to learn about our heads of hair, we’re making some mistakes that in the end could be damaging and even a waste of time and money. Time to make some changes!

1. Scratching!!!!

Hair Care Stylist PSA: PLEASE do not scratch your scalp! If you suffer from itchy scalp, first identify your problem. If your scalp is itching, the PH levels of it could be off balance. Pure peppermint oil is a great treatment for that. The causes of itchy scalp vary from lack of moisture on one hand, and over moisturizing on the other, both of which you can change. If you suffer from itchy scalp because of a medical condition, ie. psoriasis or eczema, you should consult your physician immediately.