Dandruff is a common scalp condition that affects most people at some point in their life. The top layer of your skin is constantly being shed and renewed. When you have dandruff, you would see white or yellow flakes of skin on your scalp, hair, shoulders, and even your clothes. These flakes are actually dead skin cells that have shed at an accelerated rate.
While dandruff itself is not harmful or serious, it can be a source of discomfort and self-consciousness. It can be accompanied by itching and irritation, making it both embarrassing and uncomfortable. It’s important to know that dandruff is both manageable and treatable. In this guide, I’ll explore what causes dandruff and more importantly, how to treat dandruff.
What Causes Dandruff?
Understanding the root causes of dandruff is the first step towards effective treatment. Here are some common causes:
Dry skin
Dry skin is one of the most common causes of dandruff. When the scalp is dry, it can lead to the shedding of tiny flakes. The flakes from dry skin are usually smaller and less oily than those from other causes. This type of dandruff is usually accompanied by other symptoms of dryness such as itchiness and tightness.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis is a more severe form of dandruff, linked to oily skin. It causes red, greasy skin covered with flaky white or yellow scales. This type of dandruff can affect other areas rich in oil glands, like the eyebrows, sides of the nose, behind the ears, and chest. In infants it is called cradle cap.
Malassezia
Malassezia is a type of yeast-like fungus that naturally lives on the scalp. However, it can sometimes grow out of control, leading to irritation and increased skin cell turnover, and shedding. These dead skin cells mix with oil resulting in dandruff.
Allergic Reactions to Hair and Skin Products
Sometimes, dandruff can be a result of using hair care products that irritate the scalp. This condition is known as contact dermatitis. Ingredients in shampoos, conditioners, and styling products can cause allergic reaction or sensitivity. Not rinsing out shampoo properly can also cause dandruff.
Other Skin Conditions
Skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema can also cause dandruff-like scaling.
How to treat dandruff
Now that we understand what causes dandruff, let’s explore effective treatments to keep your scalp healthy and dandruff free. The itching and flaking of dandruff can almost always be controlled.
For mild dandruff, first try regular cleansing with a gentle shampoo to reduce oil and skin cell buildup. If that doesn’t help, then you can try a medicated dandruff shampoo.
Medicated Shampoos
Some dandruff treatments will target an underlying condition such as psoriasis, others aim to exfoliate dead skin cells and others counter yeast production that can trigger dandruff.
- Zinc pyrithione shampoo: this antibacterial and anti-fungal agent can reduce the fungus that causes dandruff. Product example: Head & Shoulders Anti-dandruff Shampoo.
- Selenium sulfide shampoo: help slow down the oil production in your scalp and also has anti-fungal properties. Rinse well after shampooing as it can discolour your hair and scalp. Product example: Selsun Blue.
- Ketoconazole shampoo: an anti-fungal treatment effective against a wide variety of fungi. Product example: Nizoral Anti-dandruff Shampoo.
- Shampoos containing salicylic acid: these products help remove dead skin cells from the scalp. Product example: Ilcapil KR Shampoo.
- Tar-based shampoos: slows how quickly skin cells on your scalp die and flake off. May cause discolouration or make your scalp more sensitive to sunlight. Product example: Neutrogena T/gel Therapeutic Shampoo.
Before using an anti-dandruff shampoo, carefully try to remove as many scales or crusty patches on the scalp as possible. Gently use a comb or hairbrush to remove loose scales or flakes. This will make the shampoo more effective.
How often you use in medicated shampoo depends on your hair type. Take care to apply the dandruff shampoo to your scalp if you have curly or coily hair as the ingredients that treat dandruff can dry your hair. You can shampoo and condition your hair with your normal products after using your dandruff shampoo if needed for hair care.
How to Treat Dandruff Naturally
If you prefer a more natural approach, there are several home remedies that can help alleviate dandruff symptoms.
- Tea tree oil: tea tree oil has antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce dandruff. Add a few drops to your regular shampoo or look for products that already contain tea tree oil.
- Coconut oil: coconut oil has moisturizing and antimicrobial properties. Massage a full tablespoon into your scalp, leave it on for an hour or overnight, and then wash it out with your regular shampoo.
- Aloe Vera: aloe vera is soothing and can help reduce inflammation and itchiness. It may help treat skin conditions like psoriasis. Apply pure aloe vera gel to your scalp, leave it on for 30 minutes, and then rinse.
- Apple cider vinegar: apple cider vinegar can help restore the pH balance of your scalp and reduce yeast growth. Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water, after washing your hair with your regular shampoo apply the mix to your wet hair. Gently massage your hair, leave on for 15 minutes, and then rinse off.
When to See a Dermatologist
If over-the-counter treatments aren’t effective, it might be time to see a dermatologist. They can provide stronger treatments or identify any underlying skin conditions. Persistent or severe dandruff may require prescription strength treatment.
Conclusion: How to Treat Dandruff and Embrace Healthy Scalp Habits
Dealing with dandruff can be frustrating, but with the right approach it can be effectively managed. By understanding the causes of dandruff, learning how to treat dandruff, and utilising effective treatments you can achieve a healthy, flake free scalp.
Whether you opt for anti-dandruff shampoos, natural remedies, or professional treatments consistency and care are key. Remember, taking care of your scalp is just as important as taking care of the rest of your skin. Here is to healthy, happier hair days ahead!
