Dandruff – a form of fungal infection
We all know about dandruff, but now a question comes: is dandruff a fungal infection or is it a form of fungal infection? If you know the answer it is amazing, but if still any confusion is there or wants to know detailly about it, as we always tell we are here for you. So, let us begin our discussion today’s discussion.
Dandruff Definition
Dandruff is a prevalent scalp disorder marked by the scaling of the scalp’s skin. Although dandruff can cause scalp irritation, it is not the only cause of scalp itching.
Fungal Infection on Scalp
Tinea capitis, often known as ringworm of the scalp, is a fungal infection of the scalp. This is a superficial fungal infection of the scalp hair follicle with hair shaft involvement (dermatophytosis). Fungal organisms from the genera Microsporum and Trichophyton cause it.
Is dandruff a form of fungal infection?
The quick answer is no, dandruff is not a fungus in and of itself.
Dandruff, on the other hand, is caused by the presence of a naturally occurring fungus. Before applying a dandruff cure to your scalp, it’s critical to understand the position this fungus plays in your body’s ecosystem.
Dandruff is a hair and scalp disorder that affects about half of the world’s population. Fungus and sebum are the two most common instigators.
Your microbiome is made up of trillions of microbes both within and outside your body. These bacteria can be beneficial, harmful, or neutral, influencing everything your body does. It can fluctuate depending on your nutrition, lifestyle, circumstances, and so on.
Malassezia Globosa, a fungus typically found on your scalp, is one of these fungi. The microbiome of your scalp is made up of bacteria such as Staphylococcus capitis and Propionibacterium acnes. The Malassezia fungus is more prevalent on your scalp due to the presence of numerous sebaceous glands. And it is this Malassezia fungus that is causing your dandruff.
Some of the host variables that lead to dandruff include:
- Dandruff is a genetic tendency that runs in families.
- Endocrine component – emotional Hormonal changes and neurologically mediated factors such as emotional stress are examples of human sources.
- Changes in sebum quantity and composition – oily scalp
- Certain disorders – Parkinson’s disease patients, AIDS patients with reduced immune systems
Fungi that infect the scalp
Dermatophytes can infect the scalp in two different ways.
Microsporum species that are common
- canis
- audouinii
Trichophyton species that are common
- schoenleinii
- tonsurans
Parasitic patterns of hair involvement
There are two types of dermatophyte parasitic hair infestation. They are as follows:
Endothrix – Fungal invasion of the hair shaft, primarily through arthrospores (broken-up hyphae).
Endo-ectothrix – Invasion of hyphae within the hair shaft, accompanied by arthrospores and/or hyphae encircling the hair shaft. This sort of hair invasion is also known as ectothrix infection, for example. Canis Microsporum
How Can You Treat them?
An antifungal drug may be used to treat your scalp yeast infection or dandruff. Your doctor may advise you to use an antifungal shampoo, foam, or ointment. Many antifungal drugs are available without a prescription. If necessary, your doctor may prescribe a stronger antifungal medication.
As part of your yeast infection therapy, it’s critical to keep your scalp clean and dry. This can also help to keep a yeast infection on your scalp at bay.
Home treatments may help you get rid of the yeast infection on your scalp. Home therapy methods have not been properly investigated. Before attempting any home treatment treatments, consult with your healthcare physician. Among the home therapy alternatives are:
- Apple cider vinegar.
- Coconut oil.
- Essential oils.
- Tea tree oil shampoo.
Final Words
So, we have come to the end of today’s discussion topic. And, in today’s article, we have discussed whether dandruff is a form of fungal infection or not. Many of you might already have guessed the answer or know the solution. But, for the people who didn’t know the answer we have tried to provide a solution and clear your doubt in a detailed manner.
We hope that you’ve found this article to be interesting and enjoyable to read. Stay connected with us for such informative blogs. In the upcoming series, we will discuss various problems along with their solutions which will clear all your queries. Stay connected.
