Winter is here! It is that time of the year where your dreaded hair problem makes snowfall possible even in a tropical country like ours. Is there a solution to this itchy devil on your head?
Here are 5 simple ways to manage dandruff:
1. Washing Your Scalp
Dandruff tends to accumulate on your scalp and cause itching if you don't wash your hair regularly. Those with severe dandruff will need to wash their hair daily or on alternate days to reduce the build-up of flakes on the scalp.
2. Choosing a Suitable Shampoo
There are several anti-dandruff shampoos available. Most of them contain ZPTO (zinc-pyrithione) which has antifungal properties. It reduces the fungus, Malassezia (which causes dandruff) on the scalp. Anti-dandruff shampoos can make your hair dry and frizzy. To keep your hair soft, you can use a conditioner after you have washed your scalp with anti-dandruff shampoo.
3. Pre-Wash and Post Wash Care
Home remedies like lemon juice, guava leaf extract, gooseberry juice, etc. can be used for treating mild dandruff. They can be applied to your scalp before a head wash. In severe cases, anti-dandruff oils can be helpful to use the night before wash. A lot of people have the habit of oiling the hair after a bath but this can be counter-productive as the fungus, Malassezia thrives on the oil in your scalp.
4. Adequate Sun Exposure
Sunlight is the best natural remedy for dandruff. Visiting a sunny area like a beach for your winter vacation is a good idea. Shaving the head if feasible, is also a good way to naturally control dandruff. This increases sun exposure on your scalp and reduces dandruff.
5. Ruling Out Other Diseases
Skin diseases like scalp psoriasis, head lice, allergic reaction, tinea capitis (scalp ringworm), and eczema can also cause flaking of the skin that looks like dandruff. In such cases, a dermatologist will be able to identify the condition and treat it appropriately.
Dandruff can be an embarrassing and a serious problem if overlooked. Consult your dermatologist for appropriate treatment.
Disclaimer: This article is written by the Practitioner for informational and educational purposes only. The content presented on this page should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. Please "DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE" and seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Practo will not be responsible for any act or omission arising from the interpretation of the content present on this page.