Dandruff
Dandruff is a common condition that causes the skin on the scalp to flake. It isn’t contagious or serious. But it can be embarrassing and difficult to treat.
Mild dandruff can be treated with a gentle daily shampoo. If that doesn’t work, a medicated shampoo may help. Symptoms may return later.
Dandruff is a mild form of seborrheic dermatitis.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dandruff/symptoms-causes/syc-20353850
Prevalence
Dandruff, a skin disorder affecting 50% of the world population, is linked with proliferation of lipophilic yeasts of the genus Malassezia. Malassezia family LIP lipases are responsible for the hydrolysis of triacylglycerols, the main component of human sebum.1
An observational study was conducted at Hyderabad, Sindh, Pakistan, from August, 2007 to October, 2007. Four intermediate and degree colleges of the Hyderabad city were randomly selected and visited. The students were examined with regard to the type and severity of skin disorders. The findings were recorded on a pre-structured proforma. Results A total of 1350 students were examined. Their ages ranged from 16-24 years. Acne was the most common disorder seen in 59.5% of subjects followed by hair loss (59%), pigmentary disorders (36.3%), dandruff (26.1), hirsutism (20.9%), ephelides (6.4%), xerosis (2.9%), pityriasis versicolor (2.9%), pruritus (2.3%) and eczema (2.1%).2
References
1.Sommer B, Overy DP, Kerr RG. Identification and characterization of lipases from Malassezia restricta, a causative agent of dandruff. FEMS yeast research. 2015 Nov 1;15(7):fov078.
2.Bajaj DR, Devrajani BR, Ghouri RA, Matlani BL. Pattern of skin disorders among adolescent female students at Hyderabad, Sindh. Journal of Pakistan Association of Dermatologists. 2009;19(2):79-85.