Dandruff is a common scalp condition marked by white flakes on the scalp and itching. Skin cells die and flake off the body all the time, but if the rate is increased and the scaly flakes are not removed then they can be seen on the head.
It appears to be caused by a yeast-like fungus called malassezia, also known as pityrosporum. Malassezia is normally found on the scalp without causing problems, however, if it grows unchecked (possibly due to hormone imbalances, stress, immune suppression, infrequent shampooing, illness, or increased oil production), there is mild inflammation that produces dead skin cells. The dead cells mix with oil and clump together, making them appear white and flaky.
Normally skin cells die and are replaced around once a month, but with people with dandruff, the process is speeded up to about once every two weeks.
Many conventional dandruff shampoos contain immunotoxicants and neurotoxicants like selenium sulfide, which, if swallowed, can cause vital organs to degenerate.
“Dermatologists say it works to control those pesky flakes and relieve the itch. The only catch is that, well, in high doses coal tar causes cancer.” -The Washington Post, March 27, 2001
Contrary to popular theory, although bacteria may aggravate a dandruff condition, bacteria do not cause the initial problem. Most medical authorities consider dandruff, even the mildest forms, to be a type of scalp or skin related disease.
Is there really a public health threat from commonly sold anti- dandruff shampoos?
Vinegar along with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is used in livestock industry to kill bacteria and viruses before refrigeration storage. A chemical mixture of peracetic acid is formed when acetic acid is mixed with hydrogen peroxide. It is being used in some Asian countries by aerosol sprays for control of pneumonia. Usually of a 5% acetic acid and a 3% hydrogen peroxide is commonly used.
Many mainstream dandruff shampoos even if they are free from coal tar contain other potentially hazardous ingredients such as sodium laureth sulfate or polyethylene glycol (PEG) compounds, both of which are frequently contaminated with a clear-cut carcinogen, 1,4-dioxane. Some even contain cocamide DEA, another suspect carcinogen.
When using a retail dandruff product it is recommended that this product will need to be used continually. Once dandruff shampoos or products are discontinued, the dandruff will return. Thorough cleansing of the scalp and the hair will keep dandruff flakes out of sight for up to three days. It takes the scalp up to three days before it can generate a new batch of flakes.
Most dandruff products never addresses the cause of itchiness which are toxins, pollutants and products that have built up on the scalp.
Rewaj Tip: Massage a cup of fresh yougurt into the scalp leave for 15 minutes and than rinse off with anti dandruff shampoo containing ZP 11.
