The cause of your flaky scalp might not be dryness. White flakes that build up in your scalp --- otherwise known as dandruff --- is likely caused by a scalp that's far too oily, the American Academy of Family Physicians explains. Dandruff is embarrassing and sometimes difficult to control; however, a flaky scalp may simply mean that you need to wash your hair more often.
Dandruff Basics
The flakes that cling to your scalp, loosen and fall to your shoulders are simply layers of dead skin cells, according to the University of Michigan Health Service. It's perfectly normal for your skin cells to shed; however, if you have dandruff, larger patches of cells flake off at a more rapid rate. The exact cause of dandruff is unclear; stress, hormones and a yeast-like organism called malassezia that lives on your scalp may all be factors, the AAFP adds. More men than women get dandruff. It's also more common in people with oily skin, the elderly and those with Parkinson's disease and HIV/AIDS.
First Course of Action
A common misconception is that you can get rid of dandruff by washing your hair infrequently or rubbing in oily scalp treatments. However, this can only make flaking worse. Treating a flaky scalp begins with more frequent washings --- sometimes daily cleanings are necessary. The UHS suggests first using your regular shampoo to break down and remove flakes. If this doesn't resolve dandruff, take your home treatment to the next level by using a medicated dandruff shampoo.
Stronger Medicine
Dandruff shampoos contain various medications designed to treat a flaky scalp. Picking the right shampoo requires careful label reading. Zinc pyrithione, coal tar, salicylic acid, selenium sulfide and ketoconazole are all active ingredients in these medications that have dandruff-fighting properties. You might have to try one or more before you find the shampoo that works for you. The UHS notes that salicylic acid and selenium sulfide are moderately effective in getting rid of dandruff; it describes ketoconazole, an antifungal medication, as highly effective. According to the AAFP, you may need to use a dandruff shampoo every day to get flaking under control, then reduce use to two to three times a week to maintain your results.
Washing Techniques
Shampooing the right way can get dandruff out of your hair. Start with a damp scalp and hair. Rub in some of the dandruff shampoo, making sure it reaches your scalp. The AAFP advises leaving it in for five minutes to give the medication time to work. The UHS suggests washing and rinsing your hair not once but twice, leaving the dandruff shampoo in for five minutes on the second washing. Be sure to rinse your hair extremely well after washing, particularly if you use a shampoo with selenium sulfide. According to the Mayo Clinic, selenium sulfide can discolor blond, gray, white hair or hair that's chemically treated.
Helpful Tips
Dandruff generally is a life-long problem that only be controlled but not cured, the MedlinePlus online medical reference reports. It may go away for a long period of time, then show up again when you least expect. Flaking tends to be less problematic in the summer and worse in the winter. Most of the time, you can treat dandruff yourself without the need for additional medical intervention. However, if your scalp fails to respond to medicated dandruff shampoos or you notice red, painful patches on your head that crust over or drain, consult your doctor.
References
- University of Michigan Health Service: Dandruff
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Seborrhea: What It Is and How to Treat It
- Mayo Clinic: Dandruff: Treatment and Drugs
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Seborrheic Dermatitis - Treatment
- American Osteopathic College of Dermatology: Dandruff
- MedlinePlus: Seborrheic Dermatitis
