Dandruff Is a Low-Grade Inflammatory Condition Featuring Hyperproliferative Keratinocytes, Interleukin-17-Producing T Cells, and N-Acyl Ethanolamines

The study examines dandruff as a low-grade inflammatory condition, involving 58 participants, equally divided between healthy and dandruff-affected individuals. It identifies increased inflammatory markers, such as IL-17 and CCL17, and epidermal hyperproliferation in dandruff-affected scalps. Despite these inflammatory indicators, there are also anti-inflammatory responses, including decreased innate lymphoid cells and increased N-acyl ethanolamines. The study suggests IL-17 may play a causative role in dandruff, potentially due to microbial changes, and calls for further research into immune responses and microbial interactions. Limitations include unequal sex balance and biopsy variability.