If you notice flaky, dry patches of skin on your scalp that fall off into your hair, you may have dandruff, says the Mayo Clinic. Dandruff may be caused by dry skin; seborrheic dermatitis, a condition that causes yellow and white patches of itchy skin on the scalp; psoriasis, an accumulation of silvery skin cells on the scalp; or malassezia, a fungus. Some cases of dandruff can be treated using over-the-counter products, while more severe cases may require prescription medication.
Step 1
Try an over-the-counter dandruff shampoo to combat your condition, suggests the Mayo Clinic. Shampoos that contain active ingredients like selenium sulfide, salicylic acid, zinc pyrithione and coal tar may help eliminate dandruff. Selenium sulfide shampoos may be effective in eliminating dandruff due to malassezia, but can turn light hair blue.
Step 2
Consult a dermatologist for a prescription dandruff shampoo if over-the-counter treatments are ineffective. Your doctor may prescribe a shampoo that contains ketoconazole if he is unsure about the type of fungus that is causing your condition, says the Mayo Clinic. Take prescription treatments exactly as directed by your doctor.
Step 3
Stay calm in stressful situations. In some cases, dandruff may be aggravated by stress or anxiety, says the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. If possible, remove yourself from stressful situations to prevent an increase of flaky skin on the scalp.
Step 4
Bask in the sun. According to the Mayo Clinic, sunlight may help reduce dandruff. Spend a few minutes a day outdoors to help reduce dandruff on the scalp. Sunbathing is not recommended, because it can cause sun damage on both the scalp and the body.
Step 5
Shampoo more frequently. In some cases, dandruff can be reduced by lathering up more often. Instead of shampooing only several times a week, wash your hair every day and scrub it with your fingertips to help loosen dead skin cells.
Tips and Warnings
- Using hair spray and gel may make the scalp oilier, causing more dandruff, says the Mayo Clinic.
- Do not use prescription dandruff shampoo that has not been prescribed to you.
Things You'll Need
- Over-the-counter dandruff shampoo
- Prescription dandruff shampoo
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