Dandruff is common, albeit complex, skin problem resulting in the excessive flaking of dry, white skin from the scalp. The causes are myriad (see Causes to the left): dry skin, oily skin, overuse of styling products, poor diet, stress, excessive shampooing, a fat-eating yeast fungus called malassezia, more serious skin conditions, and any combination of the above can all contribute to your dandruff problem. But just as diverse as the causes of dandruff are, so are the treatments; there are an abundance of trusted self-care options for getting rid of your dandruff, the most common and effective of which we offer to you here.
Dandruff Control
Use commercial dandruff shampoos to get rid of your dandruff. A good anti-dandruff shampoo should contain salicylic acid, zinc pryithione, selenium sulfide, coal tar, or ketoconazole, all of which treat irritated skin cells. Head & Shoulders, Neutrogena, Pantene Pro-V, Pert Plus, Selsun Blue, Nizoral are all popular and effective brands of dandruff-formula shampoos. If you're not sure which product to try first, ask a professional, like your hair stylist or dermatologist. If you sucessfully get rid of your dandruff and choose to go back to a regular-formula shampoo and conditioner, use smaller amounts and make sure to rinse thoroughly to avoid further scalp irritation from over-washing.
Change your styling regimine to get rid of dandruff. Compound build-up from styling products (hair gels, creams, waxes, dyes) and heat and perspiration from hair dryers and irons can cause the scalp irritation and build-up that contributes to dry or oily scalps. To get rid of (or prevent) dandruff be gentle to your hair and scalp by reducing the amount of product you use in your hair, looking for products containing natural ingredients instead of harsh chemicals, and air-drying or towel-drying your hair.
Treat a dry scalp with moisturizing oils and lotions to get rid of dandruff. An invigorating scalp scrub or oil (try something with peppermint in it) can help to heal dry and flaky skin, as well as improve circulation -- another key factor in the presence of dandruff. Other ways to improve circulation to and treat an irritated scalp include alternating rinses under cold and warm water, exercising in the fresh air and sunshine (use sunscreen), and brushing or massaging your scalp before shampooing.
A healthy diet can prevent and get rid of dandruff. Excessive intake of fats, oils, starches, sugars can create the imbalances and nutritional deficiencies that cause an unhealthy scalp and, in turn, dandruff. B Vitamins (especially B6), Vitamin A, healthy fats found in nuts and flax, garlic, and oil of oregano are all feasible dandruff-fighting dietary supplements. Food allergies can also be behind your dandruff; common allergies include chocolate, nuts, and shellfish.
Stress and anxiety can contribute to dandruff. Emotional, mental, and physical stress play a huge factor in your overall health, dandruff and scalp included. Lack of sleep and rest, stress and worry about your work and/or personal life, illness, and fluctuating hormones can all contribute to your dandruff problem. Just because something bigger doesn't seem directly connected to the state of your scalp doesn't mean you can discount in your dandruff treatment plan. Be aware of your mental and emotional state of health, and be willing take steps to improve problems there in order to get rid of physcial problems like dandruff.
Profession Dandruff Treatment
Excessive and persistent dandruff that doesn't respond to treatment may be a symptom of a more serious skin condition, such as seborrhoeic dermatitis, eczema, or psoriasis. If you find that the above self-care methods of dandruff treatment aren't working for you, you may want consult a dermatologist, who will be able to prescribe a stronger shampoo or medicated lotion.
You may be able to help a dermatologist better help you by keeping a detailed record of your hygiene habits, eating habits, and overall health, which can aid in identifying any allergies, deficiencies, or larger problems causing your dandruff. The more aware and active you are in treating your dandruff problem, the faster you'll be able to get rid of it.
