As per American academy of family physicians, excessive dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis are considered to be common causes for flaky eyebrows. The condition is neither contagious nor serious; however it can lead to an embarrassing situation.
In addition the condition can be associated with greasy and oily skin around the eyebrows, skin lesions or plaques and loss of hair on the eyebrow.
What Causes Dry Flaky Skin On Eyebrows?
There is little information about the etiological factors that may lead to formation of dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis; however there are certain factors that have been found to be closely linked,
- Stress can impact various internal metabolic activities, which may manifest in the form of dryness and flaking of the skin. Chronic fatigue and exhaustion can also lead to similar symptoms.
- Seasonal changes can impact the overall texture and tone of the skin resulting in dandruff. Flaky eyebrows are more common in winters and at the onset of summers.
- Conditions that result in drop of overall immunity including HIV/AIDS, long term fasting, major surgery, etc can also result in the development of this condition.
- Fungal growth on the skin called malassezia, can also lead to flaky eyebrows.
- Parkinson’s disease and other neurological conditions can lead to the similar manifestation.
- Nutritional deficiencies, especially vitamins and proteins can lead to dandruff on the eyebrows.
Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Flaky Eyebrows
The treatment primarily focuses on reducing buildup of scales and flakes and alleviating inflammation. The treatment may also be modified to deal with certain other symptoms which include itching and redness.
- Addressing to nutritional deficiencies is the first line of treatment. Including supplements rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Omega 3 fatty acids and amino acids is vital. In addition local application of walnut oil or wheat germ oil may be recommended in some cases, to hasten the improvement of the condition. Walnut and wheat germ oil are loaded with Vitamin A and Vitamin E and helps improve the skin texture and reduces dryness.
- Maintaining skin hygiene is very important. Avoid the use of harsh, chemical soaps and instead use organic and natural soaps. If required, wash the face with plain water, rather than using soap. Dab the skin with a dry towel after washing the face (don’t rub the face).
- Apply freshly squeezed lemon juice on the eyebrows. Lemon juice is natural bleach and helps remove dead tissue cells and scales.
- Tea tree oil may be applied around the affected site, especially if fungal or bacterial infection is suspected. Tea tree has strong anti-microbial abilities.
- Prepare a paste of turmeric and crushed garlic flakes and apply them locally around the eyebrows. Turmeric and garlic have natural anti-inflammatory properties which can help reduce the redness and itching. Apply this paste at night before going to bed and wash it off in the morning with lukewarm water.
- Homeopathic drug Graphitis and Arsenic Alb are very useful to deal with dandruff on the eyebrows. Consult your physician to discuss the correct dosage and frequency of the medications. These remedies are also useful to deal with hair loss, which may be associated with this condition.