It is a normal condition that our skin cells are constantly renewing themselves. Old skin cells are being pushed out of the scalp and replaced by new ones causing flaking of the skin. We usually refer this old skin cells or flakes as dandruff. Dandruff is caused by the normal exfoliation of the skin but some people can experience large amount of flaking making it very noticeable. This can also be accompanied by inflammation and irritation causing discomfort.

Excessive amount of flaking can also be a symptom of a condition called seborrheic dermatitis. Seborrheic dermatitis is a more serious form of dandruff and can occur not only to a person’s scalp but other body parts as well. Causes of seborrheic dermatitis are still unknown but it is suspected that it may be related to hormones and vitamin imbalance. Others claim that seborrheic dermatitis is caused by inflammatory response to yeast and fungus but this has not been proven yet either.

Although both dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis are not dangerous, these conditions can cause discomfort and lack of self confidence to a person. The good thing is there are many dandruff remedies that can be used to treat these conditions. Dandruff shampoos containing salicylic acid and coal tar are usually used but it is also important to be careful in choosing the shampoo to use. If skin irritation is experienced, it is advisable to consult a doctor.