Dandruff, also known as seborrheic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition with symptoms such as white scales on the skin, itching and flaking. According to the Mayo Clinic, it occurs most often on the scalp but can also appear on other parts of the body including the chest. The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology states that there is no cure for dandruff, but several treatments can permanently reduce the symptoms.
Step 1
Wash your hair daily with a dandruff shampoo. According to the Mayo Clinic, daily washing is effective for mild cases of dandruff. Lather your hair at least twice and leave the shampoo in your hair for several minutes after each lather.
Step 2
Use dandruff conditioners. As with the shampoo, leave the conditioner in your hair for several minutes before rinsing.
Step 3
Try leave-in dandruff treatments. Leave-in treatments are effective against more persistent cases and contain antifungal agents such as ciclopirox. These products also contain anti-inflammatory agents such as coal tar, to reduce redness and itching.
Step 4
Apply over-the-counter anti-itch creams. Topical steroids such as hydrocortisone can reduce swelling and itching, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Step 5
Change up your routine. Dandruff treatments may lose effectiveness with repeated use, according to the Mayo Clinic. Change dandruff shampoos and treatments to products with different ingredients. For example, if you use a coal tar shampoo, switch to one with salicylic acid.
Step 6
Consult your physician. Severe cases may require more advanced treatments such as prescription strength topical steroids.
Tips and Warnings
- If you are prone to dry hair, reduce your washing to every other day, or as little as once a week, and supplement with leave-in treatments and topical anti-itch creams.
Things You'll Need
- Dandruff shampoo
- Dandruff conditioner
- Dandruff leave-in treatment
- Anti-fungal cream
- Topical steroid
