Dandruff can be an embarrassing condition that is caused by an excess of oil and flakes on the scalp, notes the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. Those flakes can show up in the hair, which can be especially noticeable if you have dark-colored hair. Sometimes called seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff has a number of treatments. The easiest works almost instantly in your shower.
Step 1
Shampoo your hair on a daily basis, suggests MayoClinic.com. Since the cause of dandruff is likely overproductive oil glands in your scalp, keep them dry by frequently washing your hair. Once per day should be adequate to keep dandruff at bay.
Step 2
Apply a quarter-sized amount of a shampoo that contains salicylic acid, zinc, coal tar, resorcin, ketoconazole or selenium to your hands. These ingredients actively dissolve the dandruff on your scalp and in your hair, according to Medline Plus. Rub your hands together and apply the shampoo to your wet hair.
Step 3
Scrub the shampoo into your scalp, taking special care to use your fingernails to lift away any flakes that you can feel. Scrub for at least five minutes before you rinse your hair with warm water.
Step 4
Apply a lotion containing selenium or ketoconazole if your doctor has prescribed one. Part your hair and apply the lotion directly to the scalp.
Step 5
Comb your hair with a fine-tooth comb in front of a mirror when it's still wet. A comb should pick up any excess flakes that may have fallen into your hair. When your hair is wet, it's also darker, making it easier to detect the yellowish flakes. Once you're sure your head is free of flakes, you can style as normal.
Things You'll Need
- Medicated shampoo
- Water
- Comb
