How to Treat Dandruff

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Dandruff is a common scalp complaint and affects millions of people in the United States. This condition is caused by various factors such as extremely dry, sensitive scalp, sensitive skin or dermatological skin problems like eczema and psoriasis. Additionally, certain chemical shampoos or harsh bleaching substances found in hair dyes can cause the scalp to become very dry and the layers of skin to slough off forming flaky dandruff.

Here are some ways to deal with this problem.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Shampoo
Conditioners

Step1

Keep the scalp and hair clean, because layers of dirt and grease accumulate on the scalp and causes itchiness which will then trigger the "itch-and-scratch" cycle causing the skin on the scalp to flake. Vigorous scratching will cause more dandruff, and even break the skin forming wounds and rashes.

Step2

Use shampoos that are suited to your type of hair, for instance oily or normal. Avoid cheap shampoos that contain harsh chemicals that could damage your hair and scalp and be harmful to the body. It is better to purchase quality products made from organic, natural ingredients. This way you will also contribute to saving the environment and the planet. Some great organic hair shampoo products made from herbs or fresh smelling fruity ingredients work the best for reducing dandruff. Also, pick mild non-medicated shampoos.

Step3

Always use a quality conditioner after shampooing the hair to keep the scalp from becoming too dry. Conditioners will also maintain a healthy looking shine to the hair as well as moisturize the scalp.

Step4

If you suffer from psoriasis of the scalp, there are a variety of medicated over-the-counter shampoos that will help to alleviate the symptoms and reduce the psoriasis.

Step5

For stubborn cases of dandruff you can purchase several anti-dandruff shampoos from local drugstores. These shampoos are classified according to the active ingredient contained in them. Shampoos that contain zinc pyrithione or selenium sulfide will reduce the rate of skin cell growth and produce less dandruff. Tar- containing shampoos act by retarding cell growth, and shampoos that have salicylic acid or sulfur help to loosen the dandruff from the scalp and hair so that it can be easily washed away.

Tips & Warnings

Seborrheic dermatitis is a condition that causes a severe degree of dandruff. A person with this condition usually complains of severe itching with scattered red patches along the neckline area. Sometimes there are patches of crusting on the scalp that appear yellowish in color. These individuals require prescription medication to help reduce the symptoms and clear the rashes.
Eat a healthy, balanced diet. This will keep your scalp, hair and body at its optimum condition and will help to reduce formation of dandruff
Look for vitamins and supplements that are formulated specifically for hair and scalp. Shop around in the health stores or online for these particular products.
This article is not a substitute or replacement for seeking medical attention from your doctor or health care professional.