Oily dandruff is mainly caused by an overgrowth of Malassezia due to excess oil secretion from the sebaceous glands, stimulating the scalp and leading to dandruff.  Read more on Oily Dandruff: Causes, Treatment & Prevention

4 Links Between Oily Dandruff and Hair Loss

While oily dandruff doesn’t directly cause hair loss, its related conditions can lead to thinning hair. Here’s how oily dandruff might result in hair loss:

• Inflammation and Irritation: The inflammation can weaken hair follicles, disrupting the hair growth cycle and potentially causing hair to shed or thin.
• Scratching and Damage: The intense itching from oily dandruff can cause frequent scratching, damaging the scalp and hair follicles, leading to hair breakage or premature loss.
• Blocked Hair Follicles: Excess oil and dandruff can block hair follicles, potentially slowing healthy hair growth. Blocked follicles can cause hair to thin, as new hair struggles to emerge.
• Stress and Hormonal Imbalances: Stress and hormonal imbalances can lead to oily dandruff and hair loss. Addressing these issues is key to keeping a healthy scalp and promoting hair growth.

How to Manage Oily Dandruff and Prevent Hair Loss

Effectively managing oily dandruff can help reduce the risk of hair loss. Here are some tips to keep your scalp and hair healthy:

• Maintain a Healthy Scalp Hygiene: For oily dandruff associated with an oily scalp, it’s advisable to wash your hair daily using a gentle, anti-bacterial, and sulfate-free shampoo. This helps in removing excess oil and dandruff flakes effectively. Avoid harsh hair products that could potentially aggravate the scalp.
• Medical/ Prescription shampoo: If the condition doesn’t improve, consult your doctor and use a medicinal shampoo for symptom control.
• Avoid Scratching: As tempting as it may be, try to avoid scratching your scalp. Scratching can damage hair follicles and exacerbate hair loss. Instead, use a soothing scalp treatment to alleviate itching.
• Manage Stress: Stress can worsen both dandruff and hair loss. Incorporate stress-reducing activities into your routine, such as yoga, meditation, or regular exercise.
• Eat a Balanced Diet: A diet high in vitamins and minerals, especially zinc and B vitamins, promotes scalp health. Eating leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and lean proteins can lead to stronger hair.
• Consult a Dermatologist: If dandruff and hair loss persist despite home treatments, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist. They can provide targeted treatments and address any underlying conditions contributing to your symptoms.