Can Stress Cause Dandruff?

If you are wondering, can stress cause dandruff? The answer is yes. Although not the sole cause, some studies have shown that stress can influence flare-ups of dandruff. 

In this blog, we will discover how stress can cause dandruff, and briefly discuss an Italian study that found that emotionally stressed individuals were more prone to developing these conditions.

Dandruff Causes

Everyone makes sebum and everyone has Malassezia yeast, but not everyone has the severe flaking of the scalp and skin known as seborrheic dermatitis. Some people just have mild flaking, which is called dandruff. 

The yeast Malassezia thrives on the sebum produced by the scalp. When there is excess sebum for any reason, it leads to an overproduction of Malassezia yeast. The yeast then makes byproducts that irritate the skin and cause it to flake and scale.  

There is a thought that there are 3 common elements that cause dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis (known as cradle cap in babies)  and that determine the degree to which one suffers from these conditions:

1. Having Malassezia yeast on the scalp. 
2. Sebaceous gland activity on the scalp, or production of excess sebum by the sebaceous glands.  
3. Individual susceptibility –Other common factors that can make a person more susceptible to developing dandruff.

What Triggers Dandruff?

As we discussed other factors can make a person more prone to developing dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. These factors or triggers are:

• Impaired skin barrier

Many items affect the integrity of the skin barrier and if this barrier is more permeable flaking may worsen.

• Genetics

Genetics plays an important role in the production of sebum on the scalp.

• Immune system

People with immunodeficiencies may have worse seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff.

• Neurogenic factors

Neurogenic factors refer to people with Parkinson’s disease. When patients with Parkinson’s are medicated with L-dopa, scalp flaking improves.

• Emotional stress

We all get stressed out, but the stress we are talking about that may increase one’s flaking of the scalp may go above just worrying about what to cook for dinner, it refers to common physiological issues like depression and anxiety.

Can Stress Cause Dandruff?

Even though stress is not the direct cause of dandruff, however, it can worsen the condition. When we are under stress our body releases a certain type of hormone called cortisol to deal with changes in our body. 

This is a normal mechanism of the human body. But when a person is under stress for a long time, cortisol can have negative effects on the body, such as impaired skin barrier, overproduction of sebum, high blood pressure, and weakened immune system.

All of these factors then play an important role in developing and worsening dandruff.

How is Stress Related to Dandruff?

Stress can cause several changes to our body that can worsen dandruff such as:

• Hormonal changes

When we are under stress our body experiences sudden hormonal changes. The changes in the hormones can cause the sebaceous glands to start producing more sebum. 

The excess of sebum on the scalp then works as a breeding ground for Malassezia yeast which ultimately leads to skin irritation, flaking, and scaling.

• Sweating and overheating

Our blood pressure and blood sugar levels increase when experiencing stress, which causes overheating in our body that causes sweating. The sweat on the scalp can also trigger the overproduction of Malassezia yeast.

When the sweat, sebum, and yeast combine they can cause scaling, flaking, and itchy scalp.

• Weakened immune system

When stressed the body starts producing fewer immune cells called lymphocytes. The body then becomes weak and is unable to fight properly against outside irritants and bacteria. 

These bacteria can trigger the production of Malassezia globosa on the scalp and lead to dandruff. The weakened immune system is the reason why people who are experiencing eczema are prone to developing dandruff.

The Maietta Dandruff Study

A study done in Italy in the late 1980s, looked at 300 patients to try and answer does severe stress cause dandruff. They actually looked at the enhanced flaking condition of seborrheic dermatitis and its relationship to stress. 

They looked at 150 patients with mood disorders like depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and other severe mental illnesses. As a comparison (control group) they looked at 150 age and gender-matched people who came in for surgery. They also made sure to look at the groups at the same time of year, all within the same week, so environmental factors didn’t muddy up the study.

They found that 25% of the patients in the psychiatric ward vs. only 9% of the patients that came in for surgery had seborrheic dermatitis. Actually, the group of patients that accounted for the real difference between the two groups was the depressed patients. 36% of patients with mood disorders had seborrheic dermatitis.

How to Know if Stress is Causing Your Dandruff?

The best way to identify whether stress is contributing to your dandruff is by noticing. If you notice that your dandruff gets worse or flares up when you are under stress, then there is a chance you are dealing with stress-caused dandruff.

A few things that you should notice are

• Is there a change in the size of the flakes?
• Has the amount of flakes on your scalp increased?
• Is your scalp getting oilier or drier than usual?
• Do you scratch your scalp or play with your hair when under stress?

The answer to these few questions can help you understand your dandruff. If you are still unsure about anything it is best to consult a doctor. 

Dandruff Treatment

Dandruff Shampoo

Many people with sensitive skin have struggled when looking for a product to eliminate the flakes associated with dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. People with sensitive skin should use a shampoo for dandruff without fragrance or dyes, and that does not contain sulfates or parabens.

Use Happy Cappy Medicated Shampoo and Body Wash. It is pediatrician-developed and contains pyrithione zinc as an active ingredient to fight flaking and scaling associated with dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. 

It is safe for children’s sensitive skin; however, adults nationwide have embraced it for use on themselves. 

• Wash your scalp with medicated dandruff shampoo at least 2 times a week.
• Massage the shampoo gently on the scalp and let it rest for a few minutes.
• Rinse the scalp thoroughly without leaving any residue behind.
• Once the scaling and flaking are reduced use Happy Cappy Daily Shampoo and Body Wash to keep scalp issues at bay.

Reduce Stress

It is essential to reduce stress if it is triggering your dandruff. But how to reduce stress? Don’t worry we are here to help you. You can easily reduce stress in your life by doing a few simple things:

• Meditation

Try meditating for 15 to 20 minutes every day. Close your eyes, clear your mind and take deep breaths to relax your body and mind.

• Exercise

Moving your body or staying active reduces stress. Do whatever you like for exercise: yoga, walking, push-ups, or dancing.

• Talk to a friend

Sometimes talking to a loved one or a close friend can help reduce stress. Sharing what might be disturbing you will make you feel better.

• Go outside

Going to places with nature and green spaces can have a positive effect on our bodies and minds. So go, get some fresh air and relax.

• Eat healthy

Switching to a healthy diet that includes a balance of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins can help reduce stress and maintain a healthy mind and body. 

• Get enough sleep

Not getting enough sleep can negatively affect our minds. For adults, 7 hours of sleep is essential for their well-being.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, stress can cause dandruff.
• It is not the sole cause of dandruff however it can trigger and worsen dandruff.
• Dandruff can be easily managed with the use of a dandruff shampoo.
• If your dandruff gets worse due to stress then try reducing stress by yoga, exercise, meditation, and relaxing.
• If you want to get rid of dandruff fast then read our blog.

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Dr. Eddie Valenzuela

Dr. Eddie Valenzuela is an award winning pediatrician and the founder and CEO of Pediatric Solutions, LLC.

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