Dandruff is a common condition that occurs on the scalp characterized by flaky skin. This has many causes, including very dry or oily skin, inflamed skin (dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis), fungal infections, and using too much or too little hair product (shampoo, hair spray, gel). Dandruff is not contagious and rarely causes or signals anything serious, but it is often embarrassing. Although the cause of dandruff is sometimes difficult to diagnose and treat, controlling flaky skin is much easier with special shampoos and certain home remedies.
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Method 1 of 2: Using Medical Treatment for Dandruff
Step 1. Use a zinc pyrithione shampoo
Zinc pyrithione is an antibacterial and antifungal ingredient so it can reduce bacterial or fungal infections of the scalp that cause dandruff due to seborrheic dermatitis. The fungus Malassezia furfur is partly considered a cause of dandruff for some people. So, buy this type of shampoo from your local grocery store or pharmacy and use it instead of your regular shampoo.
- The most common cause of dandruff is seborrheic dermatitis (or seborrhoea), which usually occurs on the scalp, ears, face and upper body, middle chest, and middle back.
- Seborrhoea causes red, itchy plaques on the skin (flaking), which flake off as dandruff.
- Shampoos that contain zinc pyrithione are Head & Shoulders and Selsun Salon.
Step 2. Try a shampoo containing coal tar
Coal tar slows down the rate of skin cell damage on the scalp. This ingredient basically prevents skin cells from dying and forming scaly plaques. Small amounts of plaque formation are associated with reduced dandruff. The main drawback of using a shampoo with coal tar is that it smells bad and causes painful irritation if it gets into the eyes.
- Coal tar is actually a derivative product of the coal processing process. This ingredient is considered effective for preventing dandruff caused by seborrheic dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis.
- Remember, eczema is characterized by an itchy red rash, whereas psoriasis produces raised patches with silvery scales on them.
Step 3. Consider a shampoo containing selenium sulfide
Selenium sulfide is another compound that slows down the skin cells on the scalp from dying or "replacing" thereby reducing flaking and dandruff production. Although unlike coal tar, selenium sulfide is also antifungal and is thought to be capable of treating the fungus Malassezia. As such, shampoos containing selenium sulfide are slightly more versatile as they can address a wider range of causes. The main disadvantage of using this type of anti-dandruff shampoo is that it can change the color of your hair blonde, gray, or chemically colored hair.
- To reduce the chance of hair discoloration, use these shampoos only as instructed; do not leave it on the scalp for too long and rinse hair thoroughly with water.
- Shampoo that contains selenium sulfide as an ingredient is Selsun Blue.
Step 4. Research shampoos that contain salicylic acid
Salicylic acid (the main medicinal ingredient in aspirin) is also able to reduce exfoliation and eliminate dandruff because it can soften dead skin, exfoliate the scalp, and reduce inflammation. The main drawback of salicylic acid is that it can dry out the scalp if used excessively, which can actually trigger more dandruff and be counterproductive.
- To minimize the drying effects of salicylic acid, use a scalp conditioner after shampooing.
- Shampoos containing salicylic acid are Ionyl T.
- Some shampoos that contain salicylic acid also contain sulfur, such as Sebex and Sebulex. Be warned, these brands have a stronger smell and can make your hair smell bad.
Step 5. Experiment with shampoos containing ketoconazole if other shampoos don't work
Ketoconazole is a strong antifungal agent with a very good range against most types of fungi and yeasts. These types of shampoos are usually recommended or tried when the shampoos mentioned above are ineffective-a kind of last resort. There are shampoos like this that are sold over-the-counter or in prescription form and the price tends to be more expensive than other anti-dandruff shampoos.
- Unlike most other anti-dandruff shampoos, products containing ketoconazole usually only need to be used at most twice per week.
- Shampoos that contain ketoconazole are Nizoral SS and Ketomed.
Step 6. Talk to your doctor about strong prescription shampoos and creams
While over-the-counter dandruff shampoos are usually effective, severe cases of dandruff require a strong prescription shampoo. Prescription shampoos don't contain different ingredients than the ones listed above, only the percentages are higher so they are stronger. However, there is no scientific evidence that prescription anti-dandruff shampoos work any better than over-the-counter types of shampoo.
- Ketoconazole is the compound most often used in prescription shampoos.
- The doctor will examine the scalp to find out the real cause of dandruff. You may need a referral to a skin specialist (dermatologist) for a diagnosis.
- If dandruff is caused by an inflammatory condition, such as psoriasis or eczema, your doctor may recommend and prescribe a lotion or cream containing corticosteroids. Betamethasone is the most commonly used steroid to treat dandruff and is found in brands such as Bettamousse and Betnovate.
Method 2 of 2: Using Natural Home Remedies for Dandruff
Step 1. Shampoo with tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is an antiseptic, antibiotic and antifungal derived from the Australian tea tree plant. If your dandruff is caused by an infection, a tea tree oil shampoo or other product may be helpful. Rub this oil on your scalp (be careful not to get it in your eyes), let the oil soak in for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
- Although uncommon, tea tree oil is known to cause allergic reactions in some people, so try it on your body first by rubbing a small amount of the oil on the back of your hand. If the skin does not have an adverse reaction, you can continue to use it on the scalp.
- If tea tree oil proves too strong for you, try black tea or green tea (both contain astringents and antioxidants). Boil dry tea leaves in water, strain, and allow the tea to cool before rinsing the scalp.
Step 2. Consider treatment with other oils
Dandruff caused by an overly dry scalp can be treated with coconut oil, olive oil, or baby oil. While showering, massage your scalp with the oil and let it soak in for 5-10 minutes. Then, rinse with water and a mild shampoo to get rid of the oily condition. The oil will provide a moisturizing effect and make hair softer. Coconut oil is also a good antimicrobial that can kill bacteria and fungi.
- Consider massaging your hair with oil and letting it sit overnight while you sleep. Wearing a protective shower cap will prevent your pillow from getting stained.
- You should avoid this treatment if you suspect that dandruff is related to an overly oily scalp.
Step 3. Moisturize hair with natural yogurt
Unsweetened yogurt without added sugar is generally a good skin conditioner, so consider using it on your scalp if it feels itchy and/or inflamed. The live bacteria in yogurt and its naturally alkaline can promote scalp health and help with irritation. Yogurt can also make hair feel softer and thicker. Rub yogurt on your scalp after washing your hair. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing and washing it again with a small amount of shampoo.
- Avoid yogurt with added sugar, flavor enhancers, and fruit. Instead, buy Greek yogurt, which tends to be thicker and more natural.
- Real Greek Yogurt has good bacteria called probiotics. Using these probiotics on the scalp can help reduce skin redness, itching, and irritation.
Step 4. Spend more time in the sun
Sunlight is useful for dealing with dandruff because it can stimulate the production of vitamin D in the skin and ultraviolet (UV) light can eradicate microorganisms such as fungi and bacteria. On the other hand, too much sun exposure can lead to sunburn, which in turn will cause more skin peeling---so don't overdo it.
- Start by spending more time outdoors every day without covering your head.
- Avoid basking in the sun for too long because excessive amounts of UV radiation can damage the skin (scalp) and increase the risk of skin cancer.
- While outside, you should use sunscreen on your face and body to reduce the effects of harmful UV rays.
Step 5. Change your diet
Dry skin (scalp) can be caused by a lack of certain dietary nutrients, such as B vitamins, zinc, and healthy fatty acids. Lack of eating healthy foods is increasing in the United States and may be associated with a variety of skin conditions and other ailments.
- Foods high in zinc include oysters, shellfish, red meat, poultry, eggs, pork, dairy products, and edible grains.
- Foods high in B vitamins are oysters, mussels, liver, fish, beef, cheese, and eggs.
- Healthy fatty acids can be obtained from fish oil, flaxseed, and various types of nuts.
- In addition to vitamins and minerals, getting adequate water intake is also important. Dry skin and peeling skin are common signs of dehydration. Drink 8 glasses of water every day.
Tips
- Most dandruff shampoos can be used daily or every other day, although stronger shampoos may have different directions, so always read the label.
- Be sure to leave the shampoo on your hair as long as you're advised. Most shampoo manufacturers recommend at least 5 minutes before rinsing, but some (such as shampoos containing selenium sulfide) require less time.
- After the anti-dandruff shampoo shows results, reduce the use 2-3 times per week until the dandruff is completely gone. Stop using and watch if dandruff reappears.
- Use styling products like hair gel, hair mousse, and hairspray in small amounts as they can cause the scalp to become too dry or oily when they build up.
- Other factors that may be associated with dandruff are chronic stress, poor hygiene, and weather conditions (too hot and humid or too cold and dry).
