Dandruff affects your scalp, causing itching, flaking and sometimes crusting. Crusting happens when you scratch your head so much that tiny sores develop. This can increase your risk of infection, so it's important to treat dandruff as soon as you notice it. Some over-the-counter shampoos contain zinc to combat dandruff.
History
Dandruff can have a number of causes, including infrequent shampooing, psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis. In the winter the air becomes drier, drawing moisture from your skin. Those who live in dry climates may also experience dry skin and develop dandruff as a result. If you don't shampoo often enough, dead skin cells can build up, causing dandruff. Seborrheic dermatitis causes your skin to become oily, which traps dead skin cells. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder, which causes dead skin cells to accumulate.
Significance
When dandruff develops, it causes your scalp to itch. If dandruff becomes severe enough, it can be very noticeable in your hair and on your clothes. Itching could break the skin, causing an infection to set in. Dandruff could result in permanent hair loss if the hair shafts become damaged.
Function
Zinc shampoo helps to eliminate dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. Zinc reduces the production of skin cells, which eliminates flakiness, according to the website Drugs.com. Zinc also has anti-fungal and antibacterial properties, which can eliminate bacteria and fungus, according to MayoClinic.com.
Warning
Do not use zinc shampoo if you are allergic to zinc. If you're unsure as to whether you're allergic, do a quick skin test on a small patch of skin. Use as directed by your health-care provider or as instructed on the product label. Zinc shampoos are not recommended for children under 2, according to Drugs.com. Children over the age of 2 may need special instructions when using a zinc shampoo.
Considerations
If your dandruff does not respond to shampoo formulated with zinc, you may want to consider shampoos that contain salicylic acid, coal tar, selenium sulfide or ketoconazole. These active ingredients may eliminate the dandruff. Consult with your health-care provider if your condition becomes problematic or if you develop an infection.
