Dandruff affects almost one in every two adults, according to the website DermaHarmony. The shedding of dead skin cells is a natural and invisible process unless it accelerates from a normal cycle of nearly a month to as little as a week's time. This can result in a bad dandruff problem, but severe flaking is usually the result of dermatitis, eczema, or even a fungus condition. Depending on how stubborn and resistant your dandruff is to treatment, you might want to double up on remedies, mixing and matching until you find a combination that works.
Over-the-Counter Products
Products containing salicylic acid will help remove scaly build-up on hair follicles and your scalp, according to DermaHarmony. But MayoClinic.com warns that they can also dry out your scalp, worsening your problem instead of fixing it if you do not use ample conditioner afterward. For dermatitis and psoriasis-type dandruff, use a tar-based shampoo, such as Neutrogena T/Gel. Leave over-the-counter products in your hair for at least five minutes before rinsing for best results.
Anti-Fungal Shampoos
Two kinds of fungus might be factors contributing to your dandruff: pityrosporum ovale and malassezia, which is yeast-based. Everyone has some malassezia living on their skin, but in cases of stubborn dandruff, this fungus thrives and can contribute to excess skin cell growth.
When these over-abundant cells die, white clumps appear in your hair. Products containing selenium sulfide, such as Selsun Blue, might reduce malassezia but can also affect the color of chemically-treated, blond and gray hair, so rinse well after using. Shampoos with zinc pyrithione are effective against both dermatitis and fungus-related dandruff. Ketoconazole works against both types of fungus and is available in different strengths, the strongest requiring a prescription.
Natural Help
Dandruff can become worse in the winter months when you spend more time inside, according to the website Anti-Dandruff.com. Sunlight is good for your scalp, so short walks outside on a bright day might boost the success of other remedies. This might also affect your stress level, another factor that can contribute to dandruff, according to MayoClinic.com.
Diet
DermaHarmony suggests that it may be beneficial to take zinc supplements internally in combination with using a zinc-based shampoo. People who suffer from dandruff also tend to be low in vitamin B6. Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D both contribute to healthy skin. If you don't get sufficient levels of these nutrients from your diet, consider a supplement.
Other Tips
Severe dandruff can be the result of either washing your hair too frequently, or not washing it often enough, according to MayoClinic.com. Without regular washing, dead skin cells can build up. Too much washing -- especially with a harsh shampoo - can dry your scalp. Styling products can also contribute to the problem. Wash and condition every other day but cut back on additional products such as mousses, gels and sprays. Some products might seem to work for awhile, then lose effectiveness, so rotate them weekly to keep ahead of your dandruff.
Medical Intervention
If over-the-counter remedies and diet changes don't help your condition, it might be time to see your doctor. Your dandruff might have a more serious cause. Even if it's just a particularly stubborn case of dermatitis, steroid creams can help, but they are only available by prescription.
