Dandruff can appear at any age and children are no exception, so it is important to pay attention to the cosmetic defect in time and begin treatment. The use of shampoos is considered one of the simplest ways to get rid of a well-known ailment, but before choosing a remedy, it is important to understand the symptoms of its occurrence.
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What does dandruff look like?
White flakes, clearly visible on dark clothes, are nothing more than dandruff. It consists of scaly particles of keratinized skin, appears at the roots of the hair, and then easily falls off. Most often, the disease is provoked by the activity of the Malassezia fungus. It is present on the skin of every person, but only under certain conditions does it begin to multiply and cause dandruff.
When the fungus on the scalp becomes active, a person feels itchy. Depending on the reasons that caused the spontaneous reproduction of microorganisms and the characteristics of the sebaceous glands, seborrhea (this is what the disease accompanied by peeling is called) is divided into dry, oily, and mixed. It can also manifest itself in other forms.
Prevention for teenage boys and girls
Preventive measures will only reduce the risk of developing the disease, but will not be able to get rid of dandruff if it is caused by the genetic characteristics of the body. First of all, a teenager needs:
- Lead a healthy lifestyle, eliminating any bad habits: smoking, alcohol.
- Follow a daily routine, get enough sleep and do not exhaust your body with intense exercise.
- Include balanced foods in your diet, try to minimize the consumption of very unhealthy fast food, sweets, fried, salty and spicy foods.
- Avoid stress and nervous breakdowns.
- Choose high-quality hypoallergenic scalp and hair care products.
Find out about the features of the popular remedy for fighting head lice - Paranitis - in this material.
Dry seborrhea
If there is a lack of activity in the sebaceous glands, dry seborrhea can occur. The reason is not only low sebum production, but also:
- stress, anxiety, psychological shocks;
- hereditary factors;
- hormonal disruptions (puberty or abnormalities in the functioning of the glands);
- use of incorrectly selected cosmetics, as well as cosmetic paints with ammonia;
- poor hygiene, excessively frequent hair washing and blow-drying;
- lack of vitamins (this affects the general health and functioning of the glands).
A deficiency of sebum contributes to the appearance of inflammatory processes on the scalp, which provoke the proliferation of Malassezia fungi. Symptoms of dry seborrhea:
- discoloration, dryness and brittleness of hair;
- formation of cracks in the epidermis;
- the appearance of large scales that quickly peel off.
If measures are not taken, dry seborrhea moves into the next stage. In addition to dandruff, a person is bothered by redness of the skin and seborrheic spots. Sometimes dry seborrhea is an advanced form of oily seborrhea, in other cases the problem arises on its own.
Shampoos for children from 12 to 16 years old
1. Dermazol . The product has a complex effect aimed at eliminating the formation of seborrhea and dermatitis, fights fungal microorganisms, and is used for dry and oily types of dandruff. Before undergoing treatment, adolescents should visit a doctor, as individual intolerance to the components may occur.
The composition uses ketoconazole, which destroys pathogenic microflora and ensures the creation of a protective film on the surface of the skin. The recommended therapeutic course is 3-6 weeks, the drug is applied with massage movements and washed off with running warm water after 5 minutes.
Advantages:
- Inhibits the development of yeast fungi;
- Effective against various types of dandruff;
- Normalization of the sebaceous glands.
Disadvantages: possible allergic reactions.
Average cost: 1700-1800 rubles.
2. Nizoral . The shampoo has a complex effect on the factors causing dandruff, fights several types of pathogenic microorganisms, can be used to treat ringworm and superficial mycoses, soothes irritated skin, carefully removes keratinized particles of the epidermis, and has a long-lasting effect.
The main active ingredient is ketoconazole, which provides reliable protection of the scalp from adverse factors. The product is applied to damp hair and left for 3-5 minutes. The course of therapy is selected individually and lasts no more than 1 month.
Advantages:
- Prevents the development of bacteria and fungi;
- Eliminates the main causes of dandruff;
- Recommended for teenage children.
Disadvantages: small packaging, presence of a specific smell.
Average cost: 900-950 rubles.
3. Sebozol . It is used to treat seborrhea and other skin diseases, helps eliminate discomfort, reduces peeling of the skin, and regulates the functioning of the sebaceous glands. The additional effect of the product is aimed at restoring hair; with regular use, it is restored and stops falling out.
The recommended course of use is 4-6 weeks, but if there are no visible results after 5-6 procedures, you should consult a doctor. The composition should be applied with gentle massaging movements, evenly distributed over the entire length of the hair; after 3-5 minutes of exposure, the remaining product is washed off with warm water.
Advantages:
- Eliminates various types of dandruff;
- Economical consumption thanks to a special dispenser;
- Relieving skin irritations.
Disadvantages: short-term effect, need for prevention.
Average cost: 550-600 rubles.
How to choose for a child
Dandruff in children can occur due to various reasons, as a result of poor hygiene, poor or unhealthy diet, the use of cosmetics with a high content of preservatives, the development of infectious diseases, and long-term use of medications.
Also, we must not forget about the rules of scalp care, visit a dermatologist in a timely manner and prevent the development of allergic reactions in case of individual intolerance to individual components of lotions, balms and creams. Long-term development of dandruff can cause hair loss and discomfort in the child.
Selection rules:
1. Study the instructions. Before buying a shampoo, it is important to read the instructions; it indicates the age at which the use of a particular product is permitted.
2. Shampoo composition. Modern products must be safe and contain a minimum amount of dyes, parabens, sulfates and fragrances.
The main ingredients of anti-dandruff shampoos:
- Glycerin – helps soften and moisturize the scalp.
- Ichthyol - ensures healing of wounds formed as a result of scratching.
- Zinc and Ketoconazole – eliminate the development of pathogenic microorganisms.
- Natural oils and extracts provide gentle hair care.
- Vitamins and minerals – replenish the lack of essential nutrients.
- Salicylic acid – softens and dissolves the accumulation of keratinized particles.
Oily seborrhea
If too much sebum is produced, this can also lead to dandruff. The fact is that the secretion does not contain enough antibacterial substances. Favorable conditions are created for an increase in fungal colonies. The active activity of Malassezia leads to detachment of the epidermis and the appearance of oily dandruff.
Symptoms of oily seborrhea:
- greasy hair;
- itching;
- The scales stick together and peel off very poorly.
Oily seborrhea is often accompanied by acne and furunculosis. The skin of the scalp becomes crusty; scratching during itching leads to bloody wounds. If adequate treatment is not carried out, hair will begin to fall out.
Seborrhea, associated with increased sebum production, occurs not only on the scalp. It also appears on the face, especially in the area of the nasolabial triangle, behind the ears and on the chin. On the face, the disease is characterized by enlarged pores and graying of the skin.
The most common cause of oily seborrhea is hormonal imbalances. The disease often plagues adolescents during puberty. Most often, young men suffer, because it is male hormones that provoke the activity of the sebaceous glands.
Normally, seborrhea is temporary; by the age of 25, it goes away in most people. In 10% of cases the disease becomes chronic.
Another common cause of oily seborrhea is genetics.
Also, the impetus for the disease can be:
- frequent stress;
- deviations in the functioning of the nervous system;
- taking hormones;
- problems with the gastrointestinal tract;
- diseases of the genitourinary system.
For children from 12 to 16 years old
Adolescence is accompanied by a surge in hormonal levels, which has a direct impact on the entire body. Also, children over 12 years old are characterized by disruptions in the functioning of the nervous system caused by overexertion and the experience of strong emotions, which can lead to dry or oily type of dandruff.
Among additional reasons, it is important to note the influence of hereditary factors, active reproduction of the Malassezia bacterium on the scalp, and an imbalance in the microbiome. In most cases, changing your diet, following diets and hygiene rules will help bring the problem under control, but it would be a good idea to get a doctor's opinion.
The best anti-dandruff shampoos
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Indications for use
Dandruff is a mild manifestation of seborrheic dermatitis and includes its main symptoms - a large amount of accumulated dead cells on the scalp and hair, irritation, the formation of red spots, a feeling of discomfort, including itching, and increased sensitivity of the skin.
The so-called scales of dry dandruff have a translucent color and have a fine structure. If the cause of the disease is increased secretion of sebum, then they become white or white-gray in color, can spread to any part of the scalp and cause inconvenience for the child.
Modern shampoos have a balanced composition and can be used as an independent remedy or in combination with other drugs. If after 2-3 months dandruff does not go away, and its spread increases, touching new areas, measures should be taken immediately.
Shampoos for young children (up to 5 years)
1. Babe Pediatric . For young children, it is important to use products that have a safe composition, do not cause allergies and do not have other side effects. Babe Pediatric has been clinically tested and helps destroy fungal microorganisms, which become one of the main causes of dandruff.
The composition is dominated by active ingredients - calendula and salicylic acid, which help improve skin condition and heal wounds. The shampoo must be applied while washing your hair for 5-7 minutes, then rinsed off under warm water. As a rule, visible results occur after the first applications.
Advantages:
- Gentle cleansing of the skin;
- Using safe ingredients;
- Destruction of yeast fungi.
Disadvantages: stings the eyes when it comes into contact with the mucous membrane.
Average cost: 850-900 rubles.
2. La Cree . A shampoo that is suitable for the formation of dead skin cells, as well as in case of excessive sebum secretion. The peculiarity of the product is the presence of jojoba oil and violet extract, which contain a large amount of nutrients, relieve irritation and improve the natural protective functions of the skin.
The treatment course is 1-1.5 months, during which time crusts will be removed from the surface of the head, inflammatory reactions will disappear, and the cells will receive the necessary hydration. The product is applied by rubbing with massage movements onto damp hair; 1-2 such procedures per week are sufficient.
Advantages:
- Normalization of the sebaceous glands;
- Gentle on sensitive skin;
- Minimal likelihood of allergies.
Disadvantages: the composition does not foam well, has a specific smell.
Average cost: 300-320 rubles.
3. T/Gel Neutrogena . A complex action product that allows you to get rid of dandruff, scaly lichen, and dermatitis. The main ingredient is coal tar, which helps destroy a favorable environment for the development of fungal bacteria, relieves inflammation and itching, softens the skin, ensuring its cleansing.
The absence of harmful preservatives and high efficiency of the components ensures gentle care for the delicate skin of babies. Apply shampoo to damp scalp and rinse off after 1-2 minutes; 1-2 applications per week are sufficient. Obvious results can be seen after the first few uses.
Advantages:
- Treatment of dandruff and skin diseases;
- Elimination of oily seborrhea;
- Complete care for hair and scalp.
Disadvantages: cannot be used if you are allergic to tar.
Average cost: 2300-2500 rub.
Shampoos for children from 6 to 12 years old
1. Friderm . A line of shampoos designed to treat zinc or tar based dermatitis. The first option can be used in case of excessive dandruff formation, the second in case of development of infections and fungi. The product helps restore the protective functions of the skin, relieves discomfort, including itching and irritation.
A relatively short course of therapy, which is 14 days, allows you to quickly achieve positive results and forget about dandruff for a long time, thanks to the elimination of symptoms. During use, the composition is applied to damp hair, left for 2-3 minutes and thoroughly washed off under warm water.
Advantages:
- Effective against various types of dandruff;
- Economical consumption thanks to a special dispenser;
- Destruction of fungal microorganisms.
Disadvantages: May sting the skin when used.
Average cost: 1000-1100 rubles.
2. Fitoval . A shampoo with pronounced dermatological properties, like most specialized preparations, fights the proliferation of yeast fungi, which become one of the main causes of dandruff, regulates the functioning of the sebaceous glands, softens hardened skin particles, facilitating their removal.
The composition contains active ingredients such as zinc pyrithione and white willow extract, which have an anti-inflammatory effect and have a moisturizing effect. When applied, distribute the product evenly over the surface of the head and rinse under warm water after 3-5 minutes.
Advantages:
- Gently cleanses the skin;
- Eliminates the development of yeast bacteria;
- Does not cause allergic reactions.
Disadvantages: not available in all stores and pharmacy chains.
Average cost: 600-650 rubles.
3. Sulsena . Helps get rid of oily dandruff and prevents its reappearance, regulates the functions of the sebaceous glands, and dissolves dead skin particles. Polyethylene granules provide a mild peeling effect without irritating or provoking allergic reactions in children aged 6-12 years.
The main component of the shampoo is selenium disulfide, which actively fights the spread of infections, heals wounds on the skin with constant scratching, and soothes inflammation. For medicinal purposes, it is recommended to apply the composition to the hair and leave for 2-3 minutes, then thoroughly rinse off the remaining product with warm water.
Advantages:
- Dissolves keratinized scales;
- Can be used for oily dandruff;
- Does not cause irritation to sensitive skin.
Disadvantages: not available in all stores and pharmacy chains.
Average cost: 270-310 rubles.
Mixed seborrhea
Mixed seborrhea has characteristics of dry and oily varieties. In particular, patients note that the skin on the face in the middle part is oily, and on the cheeks it is dry. Especially a lot of fat is released in the areas of the crown, chin, forehead, and nose. In other places the fat content is moderate or insufficient.
Doctors also note that a person may be bothered by dry dandruff and oily skin on the face.
Symptoms of mixed seborrhea:
- inflammatory process on the cheeks, scalp, chin, forehead, chest, nose;
- in the area of inflammation, the skin becomes rough;
- redness, itching;
- increased secretion of sebum on the forehead, but decreased secretion in other areas of the face;
- peeling in the area of increased activity of fat-secreting glands, yellowish or gray scales;
- peeling of dry areas of skin.
All the factors listed above as causes of other types of the disease can provoke mixed seborrhea. Most often the problem is associated with hormonal changes or disruptions. Heredity plays an important role. Stress and anxiety can also contribute to the growth of fungi.
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Choosing the right shampoo
Medicinal shampoo is often accompanied by balms, masks, conditioners and other things, but you need to remember that the listed products are additional to the shampoo, without which they will be ineffective.
The medicated shampoo should consist of the following components (or a combination thereof):
Zinc pyrithione prevents the growth of fungus and is the most commonly found substance in shampoo.
The peculiarity of zinc is that it is difficult to wash off, due to this it remains on the hair and scalp longer, so its effect becomes longer lasting, which helps get rid of dandruff.
Piroctone olamine is a substance that disrupts the development of fungal cells and also prevents their reproduction.
Tar has a similar effect as piroctone olamine, but at the same time it has good exfoliating ability, which allows you to quickly get rid of dandruff.
Important to read: Choosing a good men's anti-dandruff shampoo
Also has an anti-inflammatory effect.
Salicylic acid helps get rid of the upper layer of the epidermis and has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.
The shampoo, which contains clotrimazole, is aimed at preventing the development of fungus, as well as the death of microorganisms.
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An effective anti-dandruff shampoo must have a complex of these elements.
Dandruff can be treated with the following shampoos: Nizoral shampoo, Sulsena, Friederm Tar.
Shampoos in supermarkets, such as Head&Shoulders, Clear Vita Abe, etc., help solve this problem, but they cannot cure the scalp from dandruff.
Tubular seborrhea
This is a special type of seborrhea, the main symptom of which is the formation of scales not on the scalp, but on the hair. This is explained by the fact that the active reproduction of the Malassezia fungus began precisely on the hairline. Dandruff looks like small tubes, which are sometimes confused with nits.
Tubular seborrhea is also characterized by severe itching and redness. Most often it occurs in adolescence, when hormonal levels are actively restructured.
Also, the causes of tubular dandruff can be:
- lack of vitamins;
- metabolic disease;
- improper or insufficient hygiene;
- improper or poor nutrition, diets;
- physical and emotional stress;
- skin diseases;
- chronic illnesses, hepatitis, HIV and other diseases that reduce immunity.
How to treat dandruff
To find out the causes of dandruff and its treatment, you should consult a trichologist who deals with hair problems. For the examination, a special device is used, with which an enlarged image of the scalp appears on the monitor. After the initial examination, the doctor may additionally prescribe a consultation with an endocrinologist, gastroenterologist, allergist and even a psychotherapist, since dandruff can be a symptom of various diseases, including quite serious ones.
When should you see a doctor? If you have thick dandruff, severe itching, and your hair quickly becomes oily, it is better not to postpone a visit to the doctor. But if the signs are minor, you can try using anti-dandruff shampoo. However, most often, products from the mass market only wash away the scales, but do not eliminate the cause of their appearance. Therefore, it is better to resort to pharmaceutical formulations.
The following drugs are used to treat dandruff:
- antifungal;
- reducing peeling and restoring normal skin condition;
- promoting the formation of new epidermal cells;
- soothing, relieving itching and irritation.
Seborrheic dermatitis
When listing the types of dandruff, one cannot fail to mention seborrheic dermatitis. This is a general term for diseases that are associated with the active proliferation of fungi, the formation of crusts, redness, itching and peeling.
Seborrheic dermatitis can occur with infectious diseases such as lichen, or non-infectious diseases - psoriasis, neurodermatitis. Symptoms appear on the skin in areas with impaired sebum secretion.
The fungus produces lipotic enzymes that break down fatty acids. When there are too many enzymes, an inflammatory reaction occurs on the skin. Outwardly, at first it looks like peeling. Scratching leads to the formation of bleeding wounds.
The symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis are similar to dandruff. However, we are talking about it only if more than 83% of the microflora of the scalp consists of pathogenic fungi. For dandruff, this figure is 74%. Thus, dandruff is the first stage of seborrheic dermatitis. If left untreated, it will lead to serious consequences.
Dandruff in a child under 5 years old
Young children are characterized by the manifestation of seborrheic dermatitis, which, as a rule, goes away on its own and can form again only after a few years. Various factors can provoke dandruff - the wrong choice of cosmetics, switching to complementary foods, seasonal climate changes.
A large accumulation of scales on the surface of the scalp can cause discomfort in children, who may be capricious, have difficulty sleeping, and lose appetite. When scratching, there may be a risk of infections getting into open wounds. Visiting a doctor if you have these symptoms would be the best solution.
Psoriasis and dandruff
Dandruff on the head appears not only due to the activity of the sebaceous glands and fungi. Sometimes scales on the hair occur with psoriasis. This is a common disease associated with heredity and the body's immune system. The disease is chronic, its therapy is designed to reduce symptoms.
Signs of psoriasis:
- the appearance of pink or red spots (occur not only on the head, but also on the arms, legs, and other parts of the body);
- gray scales on plaques;
- itching, sometimes pain.
An outbreak of this autoimmune disease can easily be confused with seborrhea. It is important to see a doctor on time, because the treatment of these ailments is very different.
Psoriasis appears between the ages of 15 and 35 years. Outbreaks of the disease can be caused by:
- poor nutrition;
- cold or dry air;
- stress.
The causative agent is not fungi, but the person’s own immunity, which attacks healthy cells, which causes active growth of the epidermis.
Therapy requires close supervision by a dermatologist. Both local and oral medications can be prescribed. Phototherapy, IV courses, and injections help relieve symptoms.
Features of rapid treatment in boys and girls
As a rule, hormonal imbalance is pronounced in girls between 12 and 14 years old. At this age, menstruation begins and active puberty of the female reproductive system occurs. The predominance of certain hormones contributes to the excessive production of sebaceous glands, against which comedones, pimples and dandruff appear. In addition to antifungal agents, girls may also be prescribed drugs whose action is aimed at restoring the natural balance of hormones.
In men during puberty, the level of steroid sex hormones androgens increases. Over time, the boy's endocrine system is restored without any auxiliary treatment. It is enough to use only special shampoos and ointments with an antifungal effect to get rid of or cure dandruff.
Prohibited substances
To protect delicate baby skin, avoid shampoos or other care products that contain:
- Parabens. Like many other preservatives, some parabens are potentially harmful to the skin in high concentrations. These include propyl and isopropylparabens, as well as butyl and isobutylparabens, that is, long-chain ones. Short-chain ethyl and methyl parabens are recognized as safe. The main concern for those with irritated scalps is that parabens can increase inflammation and trigger allergic reactions.[5]
- Sodium lauryl sulfate. The component belongs to the group of surfactants - surfactants. This substance is used as a foaming agent, emulsifier (stabilizer) and disinfectant in household chemicals (shampoos, shaving foam, toothpastes). However, sodium lauryl sulfate irritates and dries out the skin, causing not only dandruff, but also hair loss. In addition, this substance is a strong allergen, and if it gets into the eyes, it causes inflammation of the mucous membrane. [6]
- Triethanolamine, or TEA. Another surfactant that dries and irritates the skin, and can even cause burns on sensitive children's skin. In addition, TEA reduces the skin's barrier protection, making it vulnerable to mycotic (fungal) and other infections. [7]
- Diethylene dioxide or 1,4-dioxane. This stabilizing additive, synthesized from petroleum products, is toxic and has a carcinogenic effect, provoking the development of cancer in both children and adults. [8]
- Formaldehyde. A preservative synthesized from methane with methanol, which is used in many industries: from chemical to furniture production. Formaldehyde has been proven dangerous for mucous membranes and skin, where it causes itching and rash. [9]
- Diethanolamine, or DEA. Produced by combining ammonia and chloroethanol, DEA is used as an emulsifier. The substance is carcinogenic, has the ability to accumulate in the body, and also causes allergic reactions and skin irritation. [10]
