Dandruff refers to a condition in which dead skin cells on one’s scalp flake off, often landing on one’s shoulders and clothing. Causes are manifold and need to be treated for better results.
Although dandruff flakes do look alike, they can indeed be caused by several types of scalp conditions. Exploring the different causes of dandruff and what can be done to treat or prevent a flaky scalp is something that should be looked into.
It helps to know which type of dandruff the person is suffering from to get rid of the flakes, and itchiness, and to treat the underlying causes.
What can be done to treat or prevent dandruff?
Dandruff treatment and prevention strategies can be rather divided into three categories:
- Dandruff shampoos
- Hair care
- Lifestyle changes
Dandruff shampoos
For a few people, making use of a shampoo that is targeted at treating dandruff is sufficient to treat and also prevent flaking.
It is important to read the instructions carefully. Few shampoos are for daily use, while others need to be used less frequently.
If a particular type of shampoo is not effective or loses its effectiveness over time, try another kind.
If a particular shampoo does cause side effects, like redness, irritation, or a rash, then it is better to stop making use of it immediately and consult a medical professional.
Over-the-counter (OTC) shampoos that contain the following types of ingredients can help reduce or even prevent flaking:
- Pyrithione zinc: It helps destroy bacteria and fungus on the scalp. Shampoos with this ingredient, also referred to as zinc pyrithione, are indeed appropriate for most hair types.
- Coal tar: slows the process of skin cell death on one’s scalp. These shampoos can cause little discoloration in light-colored hair.
- Salicylic acid: treats excessive oil on one’s scalp. Several shampoos with this ingredient can be made use of every day, while others are rather suggested for use 2–3 times a week.
- Selenium sulfide: This fights fungus on one’s scalp. This ingredient can indeed cause a little bit of hair discoloration if the person does not thoroughly rinse his or her hair after washing.
- Ketoconazole: It also fights fungus, and this sort of shampoo is available as an OTC and in prescription strength.
Lifestyle causes of dandruff
A healthy lifestyle can also indeed benefit one’s scalp health in several ways, like trying to:
- Manage one’s stress, as high-stress levels can weaken one’s immune system and exacerbate certain skin conditions, like seborrheic dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis.
- Eating a healthy diet that includes plenty of omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, B vitamins, and probiotics.
Hair care
If a person is prone to dandruff, they may be required to make a few changes to their hair care routine and the products they use. Consider these strategies:
- Limit hairstyling products, including hair dyes, which can irritate one’s skin or leave oils, and also chemicals on one’s scalp that can increase one’s risk of developing dandruff.
- Avoid hot water. Make use of lukewarm water for washing the hair.
- Shampoo regularly with a gentle shampoo, or perhaps a shampoo that does contain dandruff-fighting ingredients, and also be sure to rinse thoroughly.
Seeing a doctor
A mild case of dandruff usually does not require a doctor’s evaluation or treatment. There are a few situations, though, that do require prescription-strength shampoos or even other medications.
If you notice changes to one’s scalp that happen to be more serious or that do not go away with self-care treatments, follow up with your healthcare provider or even a dermatologist.
Conclusion
If having a skin condition like psoriasis or eczema that affects a particular part of one’s body and also has dandruff, let the doctor know. Together with the doctor or healthcare provider, the person can decide upon the best course of treatment for his or her dandruff.
