Dandruff is a chronic, and usually harmless, scalp condition that causes flaking and itching. While it is rarely of medical significance, according to the Mayo Clinic, it may be a significant cosmetic concern. Lifestyle changes and over-the-counter treatments are sufficient to control mild to moderate cases of dandruff. Severe or persistent cases require professional evaluation and treatment.
Use Medicated Shampoos
Shampoos containing tar, zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, salicylic acid or ketoconazole are effective at controlling most cases of dandruff. The Mayo Clinic suggests using an over-the-counter medicated shampoo every day until flaking and itching improve, and then gradually cutting back to two or three times per week to keep dandruff from returning. Leaving the medicated shampoo on your scalp for a minimum of five minutes and switching between active ingredients may increase the effectiveness of over-the-counter shampoos.
Make Lifestyle Changes
Stress and anxiety can cause or worsen dandruff, according to the Mayo Clinic. Learn and use healthy coping skills and make time for relaxation to help control dandruff related to stress. Spending a few minutes outdoors in the sun on most days is beneficial, and a diet high in zinc, B vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids may also help control dandruff. The Milton S. Hershey Medical Center recommends avoiding foods high in sugar and yeast as much as possible.
Try Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has antiseptic, antibiotic and antifungal properties and can help eliminate dandruff caused by fungal or bacterial infections, according to the Mayo Clinic. Tea tree oil shampoos are available in most health and beauty stores. You can also add a few drops of the oil to your regular shampoo to help control dandruff.
Massage Your Scalp
Massaging your scalp while shampooing will loosen skin flakes so that they can be washed away, according to the Palo Alto Medical Foundation. Just the normal actions associated with washing your scalp are helpful in controlling dandruff, which is why dandruff usually improves with more frequent shampooing. Massaging also improves circulation to the scalp and eases stress.
Seek Professional Help
See your doctor if your dandruff fails to improve with over-the-counter medicated shampoos and lifestyle changes. Sometimes, dandruff is a symptom of an underlying health condition, such as psoriasis, eczema and certain autoimmune diseases. Treating the underlying condition will help.
