Why do I get dandruff on my chest and beard?
You might have noticed dry flaky skin under your beard. It irritates and grows itchy as it progresses. But why do you even get dandruff on your beard? Even after shaving the beard, the condition may persist. So what are the reasons behind that?
Beard Dandruff
You can get dandruff in your beard just like you can get dry, flaky skin that affects your scalp. You may not notice any skin issues on your face until you grow a beard. Seborrheic dermatitis is the most likely source of beard dandruff. It might make you feel as if you don’t have good hygiene. Dandruff is caused by a yeast called Malassezia that grows on your skin.
The fungus aids in the breakdown of sebum, an oil produced by your sebaceous glands. This process produces oleic acid, which causes skin irritation in some people. Furthermore, if you have naturally oily skin then you have a high possibility to have M. globosa microbes, which results in more oleic acid.
Cell turnover is also faster in some people’s skin. This is how quickly your skin cells regenerate.
Why do you get beard dandruff?
If you are prone to scalp dandruff, you may also be prone to beard dandruff and similarly on the chest. If your skin cells regenerate too quickly on your scalp, the cells will likely do the same on your beard. Because sebaceous glands respond to androgens or male hormones, men are more commonly affected than women.
How to get rid of beard dandruff and chest dandruff?
Below noted are some remedies that can treat beard dandruff and chest dandruff.
1. Remove dead skin cells with a beard brush
If your beard is flaking due to dry skin, you should use a beard brush on a daily basis to tame stray hairs, detangle knots, and exfoliate the skin beneath the beard. Remember to take a shower when you’re finished.
2. Exfoliating
Exfoliation is a process that helps in the removal of dead skin cells, including those responsible for dandruff. By using a beard brush, you can make this the first step in your routine. Choose one with soft bristles. A beard brush will help distribute oils from your skin as well as remove dead skin. This might soften and make your beard’s hair easier to manage.
3. Washing
If you haven’t already, wash your beard like you do your hair. You can use the same shampoo that you normally use on your scalp. You should, however, consider using a medicated shampoo to treat dandruff. In a shampoo, look for the following dandruff-fighting ingredients:
Tea tree oil, pyrithione, zinc, coal tar, and selenium sulfide
Massage the shampoo into your beard gently. Ensure that it reaches the skin beneath. Allow a minute or two before rinsing. Avoid using hot water, which can dry out and irritate your skin even more.
4. Moisturizing
Moisturizing your beard is essential for removing dandruff. After shampooing does moisturize your skin to rehydrate and protect it.
The lotion is probably the first thing that comes to mind when you think of moisturizing. It can, however, be difficult to apply to your beard without leaving a lot of residue. Instead, use beard oil.
Bottom Line
Beard dandruff is a common problem, but it is simple to treat with a simple routine. Whatever you decide, pay attention to both the hair on your beard and the skin beneath it. If you haven’t seen any improvement after a few weeks, consult your doctor and start with the treatment.
If you want to read more on dandruff, click here.
