Seborrheic Dermatitis / Dandruff (Scalp Scaling Disorder)
What is Seborrheic Dermatitis / Dandruff (Scalp Scaling Disorder)
Seborrheic dermatitis, commonly called dandruff, is a chronic scalp condition where the scalp becomes itchy, red, and covered with flaky white or yellow scales. It may also affect eyebrows, beard, and other oily areas of the body.
Causes / Risk Factors
- Overgrowth of Malassezia fungus on scalp
- Excess oil (sebaceous) secretion
- Stress, fatigue, or hormonal imbalance
- Poor scalp hygiene
- Weather changes (cold or dry climates)
- Genetics or family tendency
- Associated with psoriasis, eczema, or Parkinson’s disease
Symptoms
- Flakes of white or yellow scales on scalp
- Itching and irritation
- Redness and mild inflammation
- Oily or greasy scalp
- Hair may appear dull and break easily due to scratching
- Chronic cases may lead to mild hair thinning
Conventional Management:
- Medicated shampoos (ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, zinc pyrithione)
- Topical antifungal creams
- Moisturizers for dry or itchy scalp
- Lifestyle measures: reducing stress, improving hygiene, avoiding harsh shampoos
Homeopathic Perspective
Homeopathy treats seborrheic dermatitis very effectively, targeting the root cause such as fungal imbalance, oil overproduction, or constitutional weakness.
- Reduces flaking, itching, and redness naturally
- Helps control recurrence
- Strengthens scalp health and immunity
- Especially suitable for long-term management without side effects
Common Homeopathic Medicines:
- Graphites – Thick, sticky yellowish scales, itching worse in evening, oozing tendency.
- Sulphur – Dry, itchy scalp with burning sensation, scratching worsens problem.
- Mezereum – Scalp sensitive, crusty scales, itching and soreness, matting of hair.
- Arsenicum Album – Scalp burns, itchy, worse at night; prone to fungal infection.
- Kali Sulphuricum – Scaly, yellowish dandruff, greasy hair, worsens in morning.
- Natrum Mur – White flakes, mild itching, worse in emotional stress.
Precautions & Lifestyle
- Wash hair regularly with mild, natural cleansers
- Avoid scratching to prevent scalp damage
- Maintain proper nutrition (zinc, vitamins, proteins)
- Manage stress through relaxation, yoga, or meditation
- Avoid excessive oiling or harsh chemical hair products
- Keep scalp dry and ventilated
With homeopathic treatment, dandruff can be controlled and often cured, hair becomes healthy, scalp itching and flaking reduces, and recurrence is minimized. Homeopathy focuses on constitutional care, making hair and scalp naturally strong.
