Excessive oiliness is often related to the season
According to Associate Professor Mao Yueping from the Department of Dermatology at Sun Yat-sen University Memorial Hospital, oily hair is caused by an increase in sebum secretion from the scalp's sebaceous glands, which can be related to the season or endocrine factors. Mao Yueping explained that generally, sebum secretion is more active in the summer than in the winter. However, in the winter, reduced frequency of hair washing or wearing hats can also lead to oily hair. Endocrine factors, such as high levels of androgens in the body or high sensitivity to androgens, can also cause excessive oiliness. Although oily hair is related to endocrine factors, it does not necessarily indicate a health problem. If there are no other symptoms of androgen abnormalities, such as irregular menstruation, hirsutism, or acne in women, medical consultation is not necessary.
As for scalp itching, the causes are numerous and often a combination of factors, such as fungal infections (Malassezia), environmental influences, climate changes, mental stress, improper use of hair-dyeing or perming products, or unsuitable shampoos. Oily hair and scalp itching can influence each other. Excess hair oil can create an environment suitable for fungal infections (like Malassezia), and the proliferation of these fungi can further lead to scalp itching and dandruff.
No need to see a doctor for non-significant hair loss
Mao Yueping stated that mild to moderate oily hair and scalp itching do not require medical attention and can be improved through proper care. However, if the condition is severe or accompanied by significant hair loss and endocrine disorders, medical consultation is necessary. There are many ways to improve and regulate this, mainly including dietary adjustments, mental regulation, and local care.
For those with oily-prone hair and dandruff, it is important to ensure good sleep and emotional stability. Diet should be as light as possible, reducing the intake of sweets, fried foods, and irritating foods (such as chili, curry, etc.). Eat more vegetables and fruits, and pay attention to supplementing foods rich in Vitamin B6, such as wheat bran, malt, animal liver and kidneys, soybeans, cantaloupe, cabbage, brown rice, eggs, oats, peanuts, walnuts, chicken, fish, sunflower seeds, bananas, etc.
Change dandruff shampoo varieties regularly
Mao Yueping said that for local care, it is important to consistently use high-quality shampoos. You can choose anti-dandruff shampoos for oily hair types, as their oil-control ingredients can help reduce sebum secretion and provide a better cleaning effect. If dandruff and scalp itching are also present, anti-dandruff shampoos can be used. There are both medicinal and over-the-counter anti-dandruff shampoos on the market. Medicinal shampoos (such as those containing ketoconazole) are generally used intermittently, while over-the-counter anti-dandruff shampoos can be used for longer periods, but it is recommended to change the variety regularly. In winter, washing hair every two to three days is generally sufficient, as over-cleansing can disrupt the scalp's microenvironment and cause even more active sebum secretion.
In addition, you can often perform scalp massages, which can promote blood circulation and help improve the scalp's metabolism. The principle of the massage is to use gentle actions, pressing and rubbing with the fingertips, so that the scalp feels a slight pressure. The massage should start from the side hairline, move to the top of the head, and then to the occipital area at the back of the brain.