Dandruff impacts half of the global population, and for some people, it tends to be more common during the winter season. In this article, we’ll dive into the causes and explore effective solutions to manage it.
Dandruff and winter
Dandruff is caused by a combination of factors: oily skin, dry skin, a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia, seborrheic dermatitis (SD), contact dermatitis, psoriasis, and others. A comprehensive review on seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff explains that oily secretions, Malassezia on the skin’s surface, and your individual susceptibility, all contribute to the development of SD and dandruff. This review revealed that seborrheic dermatitis does have a seasonal pattern, occurring more frequently during winter, and usually improving during summer. Dandruff is also aggravated with sleep deprivation, stress, and hormonal changes.
A recent study coming out of Turkey also showed that certain climatic conditions lead to increased Malassezia growth, and hence increasing the likelihood of getting dandruff. During the winter months, dandruff can become even more prevalent due to changes in the environment due to:
- low temperature
- low ultraviolet index, and
- low humidity
Cold temperatures and dry air can cause our skin to become dehydrated, leading to itchiness, flaking, and dandruff.
Dealing with dandruff in the winter
To help prevent dandruff during the winter months, consider implementing these helpful tips:
- Use a humidifier. A humidifier can help add moisture to the air, which can prevent dehydration of the scalp and skin.
- Avoid hot showers. Hot water can strip your scalp of its natural oils, so stick to lukewarm water when you shower.
- Shampoo and condition regularly. Regular cleansing can help prevent buildup of oil and dead skin cells on the scalp.
- Brush your hair regularly. Brushing/combing your hair stimulates the scalp and increases blood circulation. Remember not to tie up wet hair as it can create a suitable environment for fungus to grow.
- Drink more water. In winter, we often drink less water. Lack of hydration can dehydrate the skin and scalp, causing more dandruff. Experts recommend 3.7 litres of fluids a day for men and 2.7 litres of fluids a day for women.
References
- Akbulut, T. O., Suslu, H., & Atci, T. (2022). Is the Frequency of Seborrheic Dermatitis Related to Climate Parameters? Sisli Etfal Hastanesi Tip bulteni, 56(1), 91–95. Available from https://sislietfaltip.org/jvi.aspx?un=SETB-67503&volume=
- Akutekha, E. (2021). How To Stop Seasonal Dandruff Before It Starts. Huffington Post [Online]. Accessed on 19 July 2023. Available from https://www.huffpost.com/entry/how-to-stop-seasonal-dandruff_l_616dc98fe4b0931432012990
- Borda, L. J., & Wikramanayake, T. C. (2015). Seborrheic Dermatitis and Dandruff: A Comprehensive Review. Journal of Clinical and Investigative Dermatology, 3(2), 10.13188/2373-1044.1000019. Available from https://www.avensonline.org/fulltextarticles/JCID-2373-1044-03-0019.html
- Mayo Clinic. (2021). Water: How much should you drink every day?. Mayo Clinic [Online]. Accessed on 21 July 2023. Available from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/water/art-20044256
- Mcaffeine. (2022). 7 Ways to Get Rid of Dandruff In Winter. Mcaffeine [Online]. Accessed on 21 July 2023. Available from https://www.mcaffeine.com/blogs/news/7-ways-to-get-rid-of-dandruff-in-winter#:~:text=Cold%20winters%20often%20make%20us,water%20to%20keep%20yourself%20hydrated
- Salter, R. How Cold Winter Temperatures Can Affect Your Scalp Health. Hello Jupiter [Online]. Accessed on 21 July 2023. Available from https://hellojupiter.com/learn/lifestyle/how-cold-winter-temperatures-can-affect-your-scalp