Visible white flakes of dry dead skin on the scalp is a sign of dandruff.
Pregnancy and dandruff go hand in hand for some women, much to their dismay. Instead of feeling the expected glow of pregnancy, they find that their skin has become uncomfortably dry, thanks to the normal hormonal fluctuations brought on by pregnancy. This condition also extends to the scalp, and a dry scalp can cause flaking and dandruff. The relationship between pregnancy and dandruff, although normal, does not have to spoil the experience of pregnancy. Certain dandruff shampoos may help, although some commercially available dandruff shampoos should be avoided during pregnancy due to concerns about effects on the developing fetus.
Pregnant women can safely use dandruff shampoos that contain selenium sulfide to treat dandruff.
Dandruff shampoos containing the active ingredient selenium sulfide are considered safe for the scalp of pregnant women. However, use of selenium sulfide on other parts of the body is discouraged because the ingredient can be absorbed by the body through the skin. Generally considered safe, selenium sulfide has side effects that include oiliness and dry skin, as well as irritation. The use of these types of shampoos can continue after pregnancy problems and dandruff have disappeared, as there have been no reports of medical problems related to nursing.
Pregnant women should avoid any product that contains ketoconazole.
Experts recommend that women concerned about pregnancy problems and dandruff avoid coal tar, which is found in some dandruff shampoos. Pregnant women should also avoid applying a coal tar product or medication to the skin to treat psoriasis. There have been no studies on coal tar and pregnancy, but coal tar is known to negatively affect cell turnover.
An ingredient in some soaps and shampoos, zinc pyrithione is considered safe for use by pregnant women.
Pyrithione zinc is a popular dandruff-fighting ingredient in some shampoos. This ingredient is also found in soaps used to treat an inflammatory condition, seborrheic dermatitis. It is considered safe for use by pregnant women, although it can be irritating to the skin.
Some shampoos contain an antifungal ingredient called ketoconazole. Pregnant women should probably stay away from this ingredient because the safety of the fetus may be a concern, but more studies are needed to confirm this. Women who want to use a ketoconazole-containing shampoo should consult their doctors and together they can determine if the risk is worth the potential benefit. Ketoconazole negatively affects the membranes of yeast and fungi by trying to kill them.
Hormones during pregnancy can cause skin and body changes, including dandruff.
Hormones during pregnancy can cause many changes to your skin and body. Women do not have to suffer from these problems and irritations. Often, a discussion with your doctors is all that is needed to find an acceptable solution that will not harm the mother or the baby. Sometimes there are other causes of dandruff that can be investigated or ruled out.