What causes excessive dandruff in boys?
Excessive dandruff in boys may result from non-medical factors, or could be related to certain medical conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis or tinea capitis. It is recommended to pay attention to daily scalp care, and if necessary, visit a dermatology clinic at a hospital for diagnosis and treatment. Specific details are as follows:
1. Non-medical factors
Irregular sleep patterns, use of harsh shampoos, frequent hair washing, hair dyeing or perming, and excessive mental stress can irritate the scalp and hair, leading to increased oil production, dandruff, and itching. Improving these habits and choosing appropriate hair care products usually helps alleviate or eliminate symptoms.
2. Medical conditions
a. Seborrheic Dermatitis
Also known as seborrheic eczema, this is a common chronic inflammatory skin condition that frequently occurs in areas with high sebum production, such as the scalp, face, upper chest, back, and groin. Sebum, dust, and shed skin cells mix together to form large amounts of dandruff. Treatment under medical guidance may include medicated shampoos such as selenium sulfide or ketoconazole.
b. Tinea Capitis (Scalp Ringworm)
A contagious fungal infection caused by dermatophytes infecting the scalp and hair. The fungus irritates the scalp and hair, typically causing hair loss with scaling, broken hairs, and itching. Proper hygiene and disinfection are important. Topical antifungal creams such as clotrimazole or terbinafine hydrochloride cream should be applied as prescribed. In some cases, oral antifungals like itraconazole capsules or terbinafine hydrochloride tablets may also be needed.
In addition, conditions such as psoriasis or ichthyosis affecting the scalp may also cause flaking, hair loss, itching, and redness. It is recommended to seek evaluation at a hospital dermatology department, undergo appropriate diagnostic tests, and actively follow medical treatment recommendations.