Sensitivity to dandruff and sensitive scalp are two different things, but what’s the link?
It’s possible to have a sensitive scalp and not experience dandruff, and it’s also possible to be susceptible to dandruff but notactually have a sensitive scalp.
What is sensitive scalp?
Put simply, a sensitive scalp is more easily susceptible to the factors that lead to redness, itching or dryness than “normal” skin.
It could be inherited due to genetic factors or caused by environmental responses to allergens, pollution or extremetemperatures or dryness.
The good news is, if you have a sensitive, easily irritated scalp there is a sensitive scalp shampoo that’s gentle enough to use everyday.
What is sensitivity to dandruff?
To understand why some people are sensitive to experiencing the symptoms of dandruff, you have to understand the root cause ofdandruff.
There is a naturally occurring microbe present on everyone’s scalp – Malassezia globosa – that breaks down scalp oils intoother substances. One of these substances is oleic acid, and around half the world’s population is sensitive to it.
The body’s reaction is to try to renew the skin cells more quickly than normal in an effort to “shed” the irritant – this is what leadsto the visible flakes of skin recognizable as dandruff flakes.
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