Lifestyle has an impact on various aspects of our health. Dandruff, which affects almost half of the population, can be the result of bad habits. It is similar with hair loss and itchy scalp – many people experience this problem at different stages. We often ignore these symptoms, although they are a signal that our lifestyle requires change.
The most common scalp diseases
Dandruff
Dandruff is manifested by excessive and rapid exfoliation of the scalp, often accompanied by seborrhea, redness and itching. It is believed to result from excessive multiplication of Malassezia fungi, disorders in sebum composition and disruption of the skin's hydrolipid barrier, which leads to irritation and inflammation.
Dandruff causes can be divided into two categories. Endogenous factors refer to internal body problems such as stress, hormonal disorders, and weakened immunity.
Exogenous factors include improper diet, excessive alcohol consumption, frequent wearing of headgear, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, and exposure to UV radiation. Overheating of the scalp, washing too infrequently or too often, using aggressive cosmetics, and blow-drying hair with hot air are also significant.
Hair loss
It is completely natural that we lose about 50-100 hairs every day. A problem in this matter is evidenced by their loss in large quantities during washing or combing, hair remaining on the pillow or on the hand when correcting the hairstyle.
Hair loss is often accompanied by a change in hair structure, which becomes rough, dry and dull. In men, androgenetic alopecia, related to genetics, most often occurs, while in women, seasonal hair loss and telogen effluvium, caused by stress, hormonal changes or nutrient deficiencies, predominate. External factors such as climate change, UV radiation and improper care can also weaken hair, leading to excessive hair loss.
Itchy scalp
Itchy scalp is a condition that affects many people and should not be taken for granted. It often co-occurs with irritation, redness and flaking of the skin, which can lead to discomfort and affect the quality of life.
Causes of itchy scalp include: allergy, inflammation, fungal infection, stress, hormonal disorders, poor diet, improper care, temperature changes and excessive exposure to UV radiation.
How to get rid of scalp problems?
To effectively combat skin problems, it is crucial to introduce changes to your diet. You should make sure that you have vitamin B6, which supports skin regeneration. You can find it in fish, bananas, spinach and whole grain products.
Vitamins E and A are also important, the first regulates skin hydration and has anti-inflammatory effects, while the second inhibits excessive exfoliation of the epidermis. Your daily diet should also include omega-3 fatty acids and zinc from oily fish and nuts.
Limiting your sugar intake and high-glycemic foods can support scalp health. It is also worth paying attention to stress levels, as high cortisol levels can lead to hair loss and worsening skin conditions.
Important lifestyle changes also include taking care of the body's hydration, choosing gentle cosmetics, paying attention to the amount of sleep during the day and regular physical activity.