If white flakes of dandruff prevent you from wearing your favorite black sweater, it's time to address the problem. There are a variety of over-the-counter and prescription treatment options for dandruff, including sulfur, a mineral often used to treat skin conditions, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center in the article "Sulfur."
Significance
Sulfur is a mineral found naturally in hot springs and craters in volcanoes. It has a distinctive, pungent rotten egg smell that occurs when sulfur dioxide is released into the air. It is often mixed with salicylic acid when used to treat dandruff. Sulfur helps calm inflamed, irritated skin, preventing it from flaking off as dandruff.
Over-the-Counter Treatments
Sulfur and salicylic acid combination shampoos, soap bars, creams and ointments are available over-the-counter, without a prescription from a doctor. To treat dandruff, wet the hair and apply a a small amount of salicylic acid and sulfur shampoo to the hair. Rub the treatment into the hair and scalp for about five minutes, or according to the directions on the product's label. Rinse, then repeat as needed.
Home Remedies
According to home remedy proponents, eating foods that contain sulfur may also help reduce symptoms of dandruff, though not scientifically proven. Foods that are high in sulfur include meat, eggs, beans, onions, garlic, Brussels sprouts, kale and asparagus. Consult your doctor before making changes to your diet or trying to use foods to treat dandruff.
Side Effects
While using an over-the-counter salicylic acid and sulfur treatment to reduce dandruff, side effects may occur. Usually, these side effects will go away within several days of treatment. Symptoms may include redness of the scalp, peeling of the scalp and scalp irritation. If these symptoms continue after you have used the over-the-counter treatment for several days, discontinue use and consult your doctor for further treatment.
Expert Insight
Other cleansers, soaps and shampoos that contain alcohol, benzoyl peroxide, tretinoin or resorcinol may react with salicylic acid and sulfur medications, according to MayoClinic.com. Do not use other medicines or soaps on the scalp while using salicylic acid and sulfur treatment. Using ammoniated mercury ointment in combination with salicylic acid and sulfur treatment may cause a reaction on the skin, making it turn black and creating a foul smell.
