Skin or scalp dandruff (also known as seborrheic dermatitis) is extremely common. Actually, more than 11% of people suffer from this condition.
And it’s not just on the scalp, but also on your eyebrows, around the nose, on the ears and chest, and around the mouth as well. Having dead skin flying from your scalp doesn’t mean your skin is dirty or infected.
According to a diseases specialist, working out in the gym, means exercising may cause an overgrowth of yeast leading to itching and flaking on your scalp.
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The expert clearly said that exercising more can lead to dandruff.
While exercising does not directly cause dead skin, any sweaty activity can trigger a flaky scalp.
Stephanie said:
What can cause the problem is the sweat that you generate from working out and being in a sweaty gym environment.
The main cause of dandruff is Malassezia – and it thrives in oily, moist environments.
A sweaty scalp in a humid gym is the perfect breeding ground, which can exacerbate dandruff.
Even if you sweat momentarily or you do a light workout, such as some forms of yoga or walking, you can still get dandruff.
You might not realise you have been sweating, and then leave the sweat to dry on your scalp, and that’s a problem.
Stephanie explained:
Dried sweat can also contribute to scalp dryness and itching.
This happens because the moisture has evaporated and left behind salt on the scalp and hair.
There’s an easy way to tackle the dried sweat and dandruff problem.
Stephanie said:
Make sure you try and wash your hair straight after your workout.
If you can’t do this, then try rinsing your hair and scalp with water to get rid of some of the residues.
You may also find that if you wash your hair once a week you may need to increase the frequency of your hair washes.
A good hair care routine is always important to maintain a healthy scalp and hair.
Stephanie advised as cited by Express:
Use a good quality shampoo and conditioner for your hair type and refrain from over-using heat.
When drying your hair after washing, wrap your hair in a towel instead of vigorously rubbing it and use a wide-tooth comb to detangle.
If you need help with your scalp and dandruff as you return to the gym, treat the root cause as opposed to just the symptoms.
According to Dermatologist Melissa Piliang, for mild cases, you can use an over-the-counter shampoo containing selenium or zinc pyrithione ― ingredients that help control yeast. For more serious cases, you may need a prescription-strength antifungal shampoo, topical cortisone or medicated foam, solution, cream or ointment.
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